Review of English Language Basic Education Core Curriculum: Pedagogical Implications for Thai Primay Level Teachers of English

Abstract

     This article reviews the Basic Education Core Curriculum 2008 with regard to English as a compulsory subject at the primary school level (Grades 1–6) and considers the pedagogical implications for Thai teachers of English to prepare Thai primary school students for Thailand’s membership of the ASEAN community. Drawing upon a document analysis of the learning strands and standards of the Foreign Languages Core Curriculum issued by the Office of Basic Education Commission (OBEC), Ministry of Education, this article discusses two key issues—namely, raising English teachers’ awareness of English as an international language (EIL) or English as a lingua franca (ELF) and equipping primary school students with life-long learning skills for the 21st Century, which may enhance their readiness for participation in ASEAN activities. This critical review attempts to encourage such stakeholders as policy makers, educators, scholars, and parents to recognize key issues related to language planning policies and English language pedagogical implications for preparing Thai primary level teachers of English and primary school students in Thailand for the ASEAN community.