School didactics shows two opposite tendencies: on one hand we deal with being faithful to didactical tradition, on the other - with tendency to introduce changes and innovations. The first is backed-up with the need of safety, the second with developing science. The clash of these two processes introduces new quality to teaching of Polish studies. Thus, the author shows the ideas of modern model of linguistic teaching. She indicates the role of a teacher facing the difficult task of combination of scientific knowledge with needs of his/her students for whom linguistic education should be of functional nature. The school must follow up with science and life. This is the approach to linguistic education presented by new basic syllabus, including three important assumptions: anthropocentric approach to students, making knowledge and orientation functional with respect to efficiency of action. Founding of linguistic education on dual context: textological and cultural shall allow for preparation of students to conscious participation in culture, both as consumers and co-creators.