This volume develops a functional theory of language which specifies the notion of register (the analysis of the linguistic foundations of language), in terms of contextual and linguistic features. Moving beyond the limits of much of today’s theory, it develops a theoretical understanding of the relationship between text, context and both the function and form of language. A primary concern is to expand current perceptions of functional linguistics and to consider how applications of this theory might be made more effective in communicative language-teaching practices. The notes and draft chapters of this book have been edited by Professor David Birch.