A language program organized around communicative functions rather than grammar is a?

• A. Functional syllabus
• B. Structural syllabus
• C. Metalanguage
• D. Echo

Answer: (A)

A language program organized around communicative functions rather than grammar is called a functional syllabus. In this approach, the content is built around what learners want to do with language—functions like asking for information, giving directions, making requests, apologizing, or expressing opinions—often grounded in real-life situations. Because the emphasis is on meaning and use in interaction, activities are task- or scenario-based and aim to develop learners’ ability to communicate effectively, with language forms taught as needed to accomplish those functions.

This contrasts with a structural syllabus, which organizes learning around grammatical items and rules in a set sequence, prioritizing accuracy of forms before practicing communicative use. Metalanguage refers to the vocabulary used to talk about language itself, not a way of organizing a course. Echo is not a standard syllabus approach.