Chapters 7 and 8

In chapter 7 I was intrigued by Monagan's vivid description of a music festival in Clonakilty (picture is on the right). There was an abundance of colourful characters present, but what was even more colourful was the journey with the car to Clonakilty.

I have always thought that the Italians were driving like fools (maybe a stereotype). Little did I know that Ireland has the second highest rate of road fatalities in Europe.

(By the way, this could happen to your pets if you choose to drive like a madman/woman):

Irish driving can be subsumed in one simple sentence according to Monagan: "When in doubt, accelerate." Even the road signs in Ireland aren't straightforward. Result of all of the above mentioned-pandemonium on the streets. Still, it was hilarious to read Monagan's exaggerated depiction of the Irish traffic situation.

In chapter 8 the children started their schooling in Ireland. This chapter was captivating to read because topics cropped up again I have been handling during my culture classes in the first and second semester at university, namely private vs. state education and school uniforms vs. no school uniforms.

Talking about the necessity of private school always causes a fierce debate wherever it is thematised. The proponents of private schools say that the quality of education is much better there and that such schooling is likely to give social advantages in later life. Opponents, on the other hand, hold that private schools perpetuate the class system. The way I see it, we should take into account that the UK has a long-standing tradition of private schools, which cannot be terminated here and now.
Certainly, it would be much more fair if every single child would have the same educational possibilities. Alas, I hold, we must make peace with the fact that all inhabitants of our planet can never be equal. The rich will continue to send their children to private schools (old boy network etc) while the poor will send their children to comprehensive schools. Life is unjust.

As far as wearing school uniforms is concerned, I've found a great English school site that in a matter-of-factly depicts the advantages and disadvantages of wearing a uniform:
www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/customs/questions/education/uniform.htm

My only duty left is a new vocabulary quiz for you:

1. co-educational school
a) a school were both sexes are taught together
b) a school were pupils from different countries are taught together
c) a school were practical work is part of the curriculum

2. (look) the worse for wear
a) broke
b)tired
c) unhappy

3.vigour
a) happiness
b)fastness
c) energy

4.glee
a) happiness
b) tiredness
c) sadness