This book is written primarily as a guide for teachers of English as a second language drawing upon experiences and research in Uganda, Zambia, Kenya, South Africa and Britain. It acknowledges the recent progress and expansion of education in the African countries and the necessity to equip non-specialist teachers who must nevertheless deliver curricula in English to large classes with limited resources, and nurture a high standard of English in their students. The work has relevance also for pedagogues and linguists. Chapters are included on: using the students' first language experience; English and communication; encouraging students to co-operate rather than compete; an assessment of the vital primary experience; vocabulary and how to teach it; English for real conversation; improving reading skills and the choice of books; writing; grammar and what is meant by knowing the grammar of a language; literature & life, and poetry.