Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary role of English for non-Jewish migrants in Israel?
What is the primary role of English for non-Jewish migrants in Israel?
as a lingua franca for communication with employers, authorities, and Israelis
Why might knowledge of English replace the need to learn Hebrew for some non-Jewish migrants?
Why might knowledge of English replace the need to learn Hebrew for some non-Jewish migrants?
because they are expected to leave Israel after a few years and do not know where they will go
What is the primary language used for services provided to non-Jewish migrants in Israel?
What is the primary language used for services provided to non-Jewish migrants in Israel?
English, with limited translations in their native languages
What is the social significance of English in Israel?
What is the social significance of English in Israel?
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Who may face difficulties in achieving the same level of English proficiency as native Hebrew speakers?
Who may face difficulties in achieving the same level of English proficiency as native Hebrew speakers?
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What is the cultural significance of English for ultra-Orthodox Jews?
What is the cultural significance of English for ultra-Orthodox Jews?
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Why do ultra-Orthodox Jews face difficulties in learning English?
Why do ultra-Orthodox Jews face difficulties in learning English?
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What is the role of English among Jews around the world?
What is the role of English among Jews around the world?
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What is the significance of Hebrew in Israel?
What is the significance of Hebrew in Israel?
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What is the conclusion about the English language in Israel?
What is the conclusion about the English language in Israel?
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Study Notes
English Language Education Policy in Israel
- English language education policy in Israel is shaped by the varying social meanings of the language throughout the country's history.
Historical Background
- During the British Mandate of Palestine, English was imposed as an official language alongside Arabic and Hebrew.
- With the rise of Zionism and the establishment of the State of Israel, English was excluded and regarded as the language of British imperialism.
- Currently, American influence is strong, and English is regarded as an asset in a globalized world.
Impact of Israeli-Arab Conflict
- The prolonged Israeli-Arab conflict has affected the status of English in Israel.
- The 1948 war led to a massive exodus, destruction of Palestinian villages, and the arrival of additional waves of Jewish immigrants.
Language Policy in Israel
- Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages of Israel.
- English was revoked as an official language shortly after the establishment of Israel.
- Hebrew has been a compulsory subject in Arab schools since 1948.
- Arabic was made compulsory in Jewish schools in 1996, but its status is far from symmetrical with Hebrew.
Demographics and Language Use
- Arabs make up 20.7% of the population in Israel (Central Bureau of Statistics 2013).
- English is of great value to non-Jewish migrants in Israel as a lingua franca.
- Knowledge of English may replace the need to learn Hebrew for many migrants.
- English is the main tool for many migrants to communicate with Israelis.
Challenges and Inequalities
- Not all members of Israeli society have the same access to English learning, English-language media, and English-language contacts.
- Palestinians and Jewish immigrants may prioritize mastering Hebrew due to its strong status in the country.
- Ultra-Orthodox Jews may view English as a cultural threat, and religious and cultural complications prevent them from learning English at a high level.
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Description
This quiz explores the history and social meanings of English language education policy in Israel, from the British Mandate to the establishment of the State.
