English is number one, but there should be a ''strong emphasis'' on Asian languages: Multicultural Communities Council of NSW

Re "Teaching of Mandarin a good idea — to a point" (Leader, July 16) about mandatory languages in schools.

Her idea that foreign languages should not be studied in isolation from cultural aspects is not ground breaking and is implicit in the advocacy of those who think foreign languages should be mandatory in schools.

In calling for a public policy for making Mandarin mandatory in schools, Mr Minns made a point that among many benefits would be the cultural value to our community.

It may be difficult to learn another language in a cultural void and to speak the words without a cultural context may risk not being able to effectively communicate.

While the Multicultural Communities Council of NSW believes English is the bonding language in the CALD [Culturally and Linguistically Diverse] community there are many reasons for people to learn another language.

In Australia there should be a strong emphasis on Asian languages.

Language is important fostering a multicultural outlook.

The ability for people to speak other languages helps break barriers which prevent a better understanding and acceptance of diversity in our society.

There is a case for the study of other languages in high schools to undergo a rigorous re-assessment as it has been suggested that some students study another language just to accumulate marks in an exam.

If this is an accepted teaching model it is a distortion of the education process and would contribute little value to our society. There have been claims of discrimination against Asian languages in the HSC by the Board of Studies.

If this is true it should get the attention of the Department of Education.

Mandated courses starting in primary school would change the entire dynamic of language study.

David Dawson, Multicultural Communities Council of NSW