Bennett on English studies: Less Shakespeare, more emails

Education Minister Naftali Bennett is demanding changes in the way English is taught in Israeli schools, calling for more practical lessons such as writing emails. and less emphasis on traditional literature.

Bennett, who speaks fluent English due to his American-born parents, tells the Knesset’s Education Committee that each student should be able to hold a conversation and write an email in English.

“This year we are going to focus on the English language,” he says, according to Ynet. “I want 100 percent of the children in Israel to know how to speak English, know how to write an email in English, and be eligible for any job. Without English in the next century, you will have no chance. Less Shakespeare, less literary [studies], more practical [lessons].”