Civilisation In An Efl Class

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the present state of civilisation (history) teaching in the English department, through an analysis of the proposed syllabus. Teaching history and studying historical texts involve a mastery of reading and understanding the historical ‘jargon’; as well as having a sound cultural background that would enable learners to appreciate facts and political and economic concepts. The findings of this paper may yield further insights for implementing teaching strategies in a non-English speaking country like Algeria, whose educational systems are wavering between modern and traditional practices. Hence, a careful analysis of the learners needs must be carried on as there is limited use of communicative language teaching methodology which brings to the foreground their abilities. As well, students’ attitudes and goals may be different from that designed by the educational authorities. Hence, teaching history can be problematic if the final goals are not clearly defined and distinguished.