Re-opening the language question

In what language do you normally complete your assignments and examinations?

"Normally, I write my assignments and examinations in English since it is the only language accepted for assessment." Wayne Magri

"I always do them in English, even when given a choice." Kyle Vella

I usually complete my assignments and examinations in English, as I feel more comfortable using that language especially since my subjects, History and Geography, lend themselves more to the English language.

"Having said that, I would not hesitate to write in Maltese if I were doing an assignment on Maltese History, as many of the textbooks I use for research on the subject are in Maltese." Clementina Camilleri

What do you make of the recent media controversy of the use of Maltese language in examinations?

"It doesn't make a difference to me whether I am asked to use Maltese or English in my examinations." Wayne Magri

"I think answering in Maltese should always be an option in subjects which are directly related to Maltese language or culture. However, I feel it superficial to argue on such matters which affect very few people, when we can use our energy solving other more important problems." Kyle Vella

"It is being suggested that only English should be used in University assignments and examinations. Doesn't this English-versus- Maltese issue remind one of the 'language question' of the 19th century? Does it not defeat the whole purpose of bilingualism? I think since we are a bilingual country, we should have the option to use either English or Maltese in all circumstances.

"If a student is more comfortable expressing himself in Maltese, why add to the pressure and tension already imposed on students, especially during examinations, by making him or her struggle with a language they find harder to use?" Clementina Camilleri

Wayne Magri, B (Hons) European Studies, first year, Kyle Vella, B.A. Archaeology and International Relations, first year, and Clementina Camilleri, B.A. Geography and History, first year were interviewed by James Cassar.