David Shayer’s history of English teaching was first published in 1972 and divides the development of English as a school subject into five distinct periods:
01 – Introduction: Concepts and Confusion
02 – 1900-20: Progress or Paralysis? Some Voices in the Wilderness
03 – 1920-30: The Board Reports – Creative Consolidation and Advice.
04 – 1930-1940: Reaction – Old Themes for New Citizens
05 – 1940-1970: The New English – Priorities and Purpose in a Democratic Society