Identity, Religion and New Definition of Inclusiveness in Iranian High School EFL Textbooks

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the link between religion and EFL textbooks in Iran. The goal of the researchers for carrying out this study is to show the interrelatedness of religion and education in EFL settings. To gain the afore-mentioned goal, there were two phases. In the first phase, a series of Iranian EFL high school textbooks, published under the direct authority of the Iranian Ministry of Education, were analysed (in the form of linear and non-linear) to find out religious notions. The second phase involved the analysis of content in terms of inclusiveness of religion and culture. Another important notion was the analysis of the content of these textbooks to see whether the promotion of religion was hidden or not. Finally, identity and the concept of nationhood were discussed regarding religious content in EFL high school textbooks of Iran.