This text investigates the efficacy and implementation of the functional-notional approach in language pedagogy, focusing on how communicative intent shapes curriculum design. Christopher Brumfit and Mary Bonomo Finocchiaro, both established scholars in applied linguistics, synthesize theoretical frameworks with practical classroom applications. They argue that language instruction should prioritize the expression of meaning and social function over the traditional rote memorization of grammatical structures. The book provides a comprehensive rationale for shifting toward communicative competence as the primary objective of second language acquisition.

Experts recognize this work as a foundational text for understanding the shift toward communicative language teaching in the late 20th century. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which serves as a primary resource for curriculum designers and linguistics students.