Subject and Subject: English Teaching and Learning in China

Abstract

This article examines the influence of English on China, especially on Chinese English learners. What role has English played in China? Who decides the way it is structured? In what way has it affected Chinese society, especially schools? And how can educators face the cultural dilemmas it brings? Presenting the historical and contemporary position of English in China, the author argues that English has played a unique role in reinforcing the social stratification in China. English has never been just a subject or discipline in Chinese schools, but the Chinese must become aware of the danger of being the subject of its power.