ABSTRACT
The role of foreign language (FL) teaching in the development of citizenship has long been
outlined in political rhetoric and policy as well as in the theoretical literature. The inclusion of
this chapter in the third edition of this book reflects recognition of the significance that has
been attributed to the role of FL teaching in the shaping of identity and of citizenship. While
there is no doubt that strong links exist between the teaching of the mother tongue and the
exercise of citizenship, as discussed in a previous chapter in this volume, in examining the
relationship between language and citizenship this chapter will maintain a focus on FL. FL
is used here in preference to MFL (Modern Foreign Languages) to ensure that the reader
sees the discussion as relevant to the teaching of any foreign language even where this may
apply to English as a Foreign Language.
