A review of the status of English language instruction in Poland begins with an overview of the role of English in the society in general, and outlines the status of English use and instruction in the educational system at all levels (elementary, secondary, higher, adult, and teacher), the characteristics and training of English language instructors at all educational levels, the type and availability of instructional materials, educational administration and planning in relation to English teaching since 1950, British and other international support, commercial opportunities related to English instruction, creative writing, language research, and other sources of information. It is concluded that the main strengths of the Polish situation are the high standards of the university departments and their graduates, the generally high standard of locally produced books, and the exceptionally high demand and support for English. The main weaknesses are the shortage of elementary and secondary teachers, the shortage of locally printed editions of British and Polish books for English instruction, the unavailability of audiovisual materials, the inadequacy of inservice teacher training programs, and the lack of convertible currency that prevents teachers and students from visiting Britain. (MSE)