The specific aim of this field study is to observe and analyse the teaching of English as a second language (ESL) in Narrabundah Primary School, administered by the Australian Capital Territory Schools' Authority. There is an important need to find out what is happening in primary schools following English as a second language ( ESL) programs and if all children requiring ESL instruction are receiving it. Such a question may be answered by: (i) an examination of all resources available to primary schools with ESL programs; (ii) learning what methods are used to select children for ESL instruction; (iii) reviewing the qualifications and expertise of the ESL teachers; (iv) identifying the difficulties found in meeting the needs of ESL pupils; (v) studying the ESL curriculums and evaluation techniques used in the school with ESL programs. The purpose of this field study is to explore and report on the current approaches, methods, materials available and the curriculum being used in the teaching of ESL in primary schools within the Canberra / Queanbeyan area.