Secondary School English Textbooks as a Resource for Citizenship Education in the Algerian Context

Abstract

The present research work attempts to explore the potential relevance of foreign language course books to instill civic values into students in the Algerian educational settings. To that end, the study has opted for a critical and systematic analysis of the syllabi and contents of English secondary school education textbooks with a special reference to the nature of topics to which pre-tertiary students are exposed. The results of the analysis reveal clearly the adequacy and suitability of such teaching/ learning materials to help spread civic values among students. We might say that citizenship education is more than learning a book. It has to be underpinned by spreading its values and demystifying its concepts. Schools and teachers play a critical role in helping new generations become responsible citizens; however, their efforts must be matched with good practices from the other members of society. Otherwise, all they struggle to build within schools will be in vain.