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3 - Fluency for Me, But Not for Thee?

Why Disadvantaged Communities Deserve Oracy

from Part I - Debating Oracy in the UK

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 September 2025

Tom F. Wright
Affiliation:
University of Sussex
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Summary

In this chapter, Qamar Shafiq, an experienced teacher of English from Staffordshire, assesses the practical implications of critiques of oracy education for ethnic minority pupils. He urges nuanced perspectives and practical strategies for academic success across backgrounds. He challenges low expectations, advocating fluency in standard English for societal integration and equal opportunities. Drawing from personal experiences as someone whose first language was not English, he stresses educators’ role in enhancing linguistic skills while respecting cultural diversity. Shafiq promotes a balanced approach supporting both oracy and standard English proficiency, rejecting hindering radical ideologies. Ultimately, he asserts the pragmatic case that marginalized groups require a solid foundation in oracy and standard English for success in education and beyond.

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