Catholic school effect
n.— «If it makes sense you learn democracy by being randomly thrown together with a classroom of strangers, what could explain why chosen schools do better at it? It could be that parents are more involved, says Wolf, or teachers are freer to discuss moral values. It could be what’s called the “Catholic school effect,” as when Catholic schools responded to nativist suspicion by bending over backwards to instill patriotism: Private schools know they must try harder.» —“The unity that we choose” by Patrick McIlheran Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Wisconsin) May 26, 2007. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
Language is always evolving, and that’s also true for American Sign Language. A century ago, the sign for “telephone” was one fist below your mouth and the other at your ear, as if you’re holding an old-fashioned candlestick...
Whether it’s a Rubik’s cube or a round of Wordle, why do so many of us find puzzles irresistible? A new book celebrates the allure and psychological benefits of brain teasers. Plus, powerful language for talking about the chronic...