To begin with, the Curriculum promotes quality education (as opposed to exam-orientated education) and the all-round development of the students. To promote quality education particular attention must be paid to valuing each student’s feelings, stimulating students’ interest in studying English, and helping students gain a sense of achievement and self-confidence. (The National English Curriculum 5)
Besides, the fundamental aim of the new English curriculum is to develop students’ comprehensive language competence. This aim is broken down into five general objectives. These objectives are then pided into nine ability levels with descriptors provided for each level. The five general objectives are: Language Skills, Language Knowledge, Attitudes to Learning, Learning Strategies and Cultural Awareness. (Cao Yamin 4)