Voice 1107 II

"In the 1950s even school staff who did not hold a teaching position could produce nice calligraphy. Now only professionals or amateur calligraphy enthusiasts can handle a brush," is Li Yuming's observation. The head of the Department of Language Information Management of the Ministry of Education expressed his concerns at a news conference for the ministry's 2010 report on the use of Chinese language. "I think our culture is rooted in Chinese calligraphy," explained Li, forwarding his ministry's suggestion that handwriting classes be included in the curriculum of primary and middle schools. Evaluation standards are in the making. For several years the Ministry of Education and its State Language Work Committee have been advocating more practice of handwriting with brushes or pens, among students and teachers alike. Li asserts, "Writing is not just putting words into ink, it is a means to cultivate good taste and a balanced personality, and also to immerse oneself in Chinese culture."