Through the Looking Glass: What ESL Teachers Can Find in Russian-Published Reference Books

Abstract

The purpose of this article was to research the cultural content of Russian-published English reference literature. Paradoxically, in trying to create the learning materials for the students of English, the authors of these texts focus on the values inherent in their own culture. Ethnocentrism and a high degree of generalizations about local values are reflected in the seemingly dry 1-2-sentence texts used for the study. The goal of the present research is not to give "modern recommendations" to non-English-speaking authors on how to write textbooks for students in their countries; rather, the intention is to help Canadian teachers working with the ESL learners to become more aware of the experiences, expectations, and views their students may bring to the classroom.