English for speakers of other languages

Abstract

This chapter looks at the teaching of English to speakers of other languages. English as a foreign language (EFL) is the term traditionally used to describe the sort of English taught in a context in which the dominant language is other than English, and there is little English used in the environment, other than for international communication. In order to maximise profitability and hold down costs, the publishing industry attempts to produce English language teaching textbooks, audiovisual material and teacher training materials that will be acceptable across as many different countries as possible. English as a second language (ESL) is the term traditionally used to refer to situations in which speakers of other home languages are learning English in a context in which English is the dominant language of public life. More generic terms used in context to cover both EFL and ESL are English language teaching (ELT) and, particularly in the USA, English to speakers of other languages (ESOL).