Engine City by Ken Macleod

Engine City by Ken Macleod

English in Urban Classrooms is a ground-breaking text that spans a range of issues central to school English today. It extends not only to the spoken and written language of classrooms, but also to other modes of representation and communication that are important in English teaching. This includes image, gesture, gaze, movement and spatial organisation.

The team of experienced and expert authors collectively examine how English is shaped by policy, institutions and the social relations of the classroom. By connecting issues of policy and social context, the book provides a detailed account of factors such as:

• the characteristics of urban multi-cultural schools
• teacher formation and tradition
• the ethos of school English departments
• the institutional changes that have shaped school English in urban classrooms
• students' experiences of learning.

This book offers a fascinating and enlightening read, not only to those involved in English teaching, but also to educational researchers, policymakers, linguists and those interested in semiotics and multi-modality.

Ken MacLeod is one of the brightest and most progressive of Britain's new Hard SF stars who are navigating exciting new futures, to the delight of a growing legion of fans around the world. His award-winning works combine cutting-edge scientific speculation, socialist and anarchist themes, and a deep humanistic vision. Described by fans and detractors alike as a techno-utopian socialist, MacLeod delights in engaging recognizable characters in far-flung adventures across the boundaries of space and time. Born in Scotland's legendary Outer Isles, MacLeod graduated from Glasgow University with a degree in zoology and has worked as a computer programmer and written a masters thesis on biomechanics. A regular in British SF and progressive circles, he is married and has two children. He lives in South Queensferry, Scotland.