Staff Only: Gone are the days of a common general knowledge [Independent.ie]
- Published: 08 June 2011
Every now and then I am astounded by the level of ignorance that my pupils display. Now, I know this is purely subjective, as what I'm really astounded by is the level of ignorance about the things I know, but surely there are words, places and people that everybody knows.
All in the matter of a few days a group of fifth years shocked me with the uncomprehending stares, behind which lurk minds landscaped by laconic tumbleweed in a windblown desert.
On Monday they tell me they have never heard of Napoleon Bonaparte.
On Wednesday they shake their heads doubtfully when I mention the English Channel.
I point to the huge map of Mother Europe on the wall. No, never seen that little sleeve of water before.
"Look! England's very close to France down there.
"That's Kent and when you take the ferry from Dover you can actually see France as soon as you leave the harbour."
Can't be right, they retort. I assure them that it is.
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