This research critically examines the multifaceted role of English as a foreign language (EFL) coursebooks beyond mere language learning objectives. Specifically, the study focuses on how these coursebooks often project universal cultural values that, though seemingly bland, can perpetuate power dynamics leading to various forms of inequality.…

The discourse of equity and egalitarianism has a long pedigree in Norway. However, this discourse has recently come under severe strain as evidenced by the growing segregation of schools along ethnic lines in the capital Oslo. This paper considers the portrayal of non-westerners in four English textbooks used in the teaching of English as a…

Using selected lessons from the textbooks "Learning English" (Klett) and "English for Today" (Schrodel-Lensing) for the beginner's level, it is shown that modern-oriented texts, critical of content and having an emancipated outlook, are not presented at all, or only in the beginning. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Advocates the use of sociological topics, such as North American Indians, in teaching English in Grades 5-10. Criticizes five texts currently used in various types of German schools for their stereotyped approach, and suggests certain supplementary texts as antidotes. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Compared to regular freshman composition textbooks, materials for advanced instruction in English as a foreign language are unsubstantial. An examination of EFL tests reveals the triviality of much of the content, particularly in comparison with the sophistication and significance of literature taught to native speakers. In addition, some EFL…

The Materials Acquisition Project (MAP) was founded in 1970 under E.S.E.A. Title VII to collect educational materials published in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries for assistance and use in bilingual education programs in the U.S. MAP believes in parity in all aspects of bilingual-bicultural education and offers guidelines for such an…

Essays that consider the way that women are portrayed in foreign language textbooks are presented. The selected essays were submitted to a competition sponsored by the Federation Internationale des Professeurs de Langues Vivantes, which requested that language teachers assess such concerns as: (1) whether women were described in a stereotyped way;…

An analysis is presented of nine textbooks that have been developed in Germany for English language instruction in secondary schools. The purpose of the study is to describe the view that Germans appear to have of the United States as reflected in the information and opinions expressed in these textbooks. It is noted that all the textbooks…