begins with the teaching of the Persian alphabet. It aims to provide the student with the necessary skills for social interaction, as well as a basis for the study of modern literature. The course consists of seventeen units and favours teaching by communicative and contextual learning. Most units begin with a reading exercise used to introduce an item of grammar and new vocabulary, followed by explanations and drill exercises aimed at consolidating the student's understanding. Complete with Persian-English vocabulary to all the exercises and tape recordings, this is an up-to-date textbook which can be used both by teachers or individuals wishing to learn Persian independently.