[originaltext] Generalising about education in the United States involves so

Generalising about education in the United States involves some hazard because education is decentralised and standards vary from place to place. What is more, diversity is the hallmark of American education.
    Education is largely a public function in America, but religious and private institutions do sponsor schools. These private schools, particularly in the primary and secondary field, are now enjoying a resurgence.
    Most children in America begin school in a kindergarten class at age 5. This follows with eight years of primary education, then four years of high school. Education is compulsory until about age 16. The existence of large minorities, many with a primary language other than English, complicates the educational process. Many Americans do not believe that their school standards are high enough. The high rate of functional illiteracy gives credence to this charge.
    Higher education in America is widespread with about 1,800 post-secondary institutions. These include two-year community colleges, four-year undergraduate colleges and universities, and many schools which have extensive graduate programmes. Some schools are privately funded, but most receive the bulk of their funding from public sources. There is a great range of quality between higher educational institutions and, some universities have outstanding academic records.
    These quality differences may be overemphasised for many non-prestige schools have excellent programmes. In the long run, the individual determines the education he gets.
Questions 16 to 19 are based on the passage you have just heard.
16. Why is generalising about American education so difficult?
17. Where do most American schools obtain their funding?
18. Why do minorities create an educational problem in America?
19. What is the safe generalisation about quality in American higher education?