This discussion of the teaching of English in British secondary schools is divided into two parts--a general account of the goals and problems which involve the English teacher and a presentation of methods for teaching English. Included in the first part are letters from a young teacher that describe the school environment and administrative weaknesses in secondary schools; a survey of the goals of education--for living or earning a living--and the implications of these goals; an analysis of the significance of words in the preservation of a culture; and a consideration of the purposes of teaching English and culture. Approaches to teaching poetry, folksongs, creative writing, composition, reading, and drama are presented in the second part. Some attention is also given to"marking, encouragement, and criteria." Appendices include lists of materials for teaching reading, poetry, folksongs, and the Bible. (LH)