The FD 50mm f/1.8 is a standard lens designed for late model Canon manual focus SLR cameras.  The 50mm f/1.8 FD is a perfect companion lens for Canon A series and T series bodies.  With a 'normal' angle of view the 50mm is not considered wide or telephoto but rather an in-between general purpose lens.  The bright f/1.8 maximum aperture allows for easier focusing and faster shutter speeds while shooting with available light as well as the potential to blur background more than typical zooms.  Because it offers great contrast and sharpness and good potential for shallow depth of field experimentation, the 50mm 1.8 FD is an extremely good choice as a first lens for photography students.  The same qualities have also made it popular with practiced enthusiasts as an alternative to more expensive f/1.4 options.