What is a preface?

A preface is a section or page of the front and back matter of a book that includes explanatory remarks about the book.

Here are some possible features of a preface:

• Comments, usually in the local language, and in the language of wider communication about some of the following:

  • The content and purpose of the book
  • The origin of the book, especially if it is local
  • The people for whom the book was printed
  • How many people speak the language
  • Where the language is spoken

Here is an example of a preface:

This book has been prepared to assist Apache speakers who already read and write English to read and write in Apache.

Each lesson includes stories written by native speakers of Apache. At the back of the book the student will be rewarded by being able to read several longer stories which reflect the rich history and traditions of the Apache culture.

It is hoped that vernacular speakers will be able to use this book without a teacher's help by carefully following the instructions on each page.

• Putting together a book

• Concept module: preface
• In overview module: Glossary (Literacy): P
• In modular book: Glossary of literacy terms
• In document collection: Reference materials
• In bookshelf: Literacy

This page is an extract from the LinguaLinks Library, Version 4.0, published on CD-ROM by SIL International, 1999. [Ordering information.]

Page content last modified: 2 July 1998

© 1999 SIL International