英语课程标准英文版.doc

PAGE PAGE 1 New English Curriculum for Chinese Experimental Version drafted by the Education Ministry of the PRC Note on this translation This English version of China’s new curriculum for English is intended for VSO volunteers who would like to feel better informed about a document that is central to our work. However, it should in no way be regarded as an official translation. In fact, it is neither a word for word translation nor a summary. The appendix to the original, which includes lists of specific language items to be mastered, has been omitted, as have some level descriptors and sample learning activities. Despite trying to make it more readable, this version reflects the repetitive nature of the original, with the same key words cropping up over and over again. Volunteers should also refer to the more official (but still not completely official!) translation of the new English curriculum specifically for senior middle schools available from the Programme Office. Any feedback on this version would be welcome. Tim Martin Shaanxi Institute of Education, October 2005 Part 1: Introduction With the advent of the information age and the global economy, English has become increasingly important. English is the dominant carrier of information and the most widely spoken language in the world. Many countries have made English a cornerstone of quality education when developing strategies for basic education. Since China’s reform and opening, the scale of its English education has continually grown, attended by significant achievements in teaching and learning. However, English education in its current form is failing to meet the needs of contemporary social and economic development. The current round of reforms to the English curriculum aim to end the following practices: Over-emphasizing the transmission and explanation of knowledge about grammar and vocabulary Neglecting to develop students’ ability to use language for real In their place, the reforms aim