The reasons why a child should learn a foreign language, and particularly, which foreign language study should begin in elementary school, are discussed. The kinds of programs generally available in elementary schools are described. Sources of information and assistance for parents who want to start language programs in their schools are given.…

The Bellevue (Washington) public schools' Spanish immersion program is described and program-related information is provided for parents. The description outlines general program goals and the basic educational assumptions underlying them, briefly chronicles the history of immersion education and of the Bellevue program, enumerates curriculum…

This guide is intended as a reference for both parents and teachers concerning the design and objectives of two-way bilingual language immersion programs in elementary schools, including procedures and considerations in the creation of a new program. The first section looks at the role of language immersion as a form of enrichment education, and…

A guide to the planning and implementation of elementary school foreign language (FLES) programs presents statements of opinion and experience in various aspects of program development by a number of experts. An introductory section outlines basic program planning considerations, and a second chapter describes the work of the American Association…

The curriculum guide for a Spanish two-way partial immersion program in the Francis Scott Key Elementary School (Arlington, Virginia) is designed as a reference for parents and teachers. It presents information, instructional objectives, and activities in the form of integrated instructional units for grades K-4. Introductory sections outline: the…

The Language School in Seattle has conducted extracurricular foreign language classes in 31 local elementary schools for several years. Each school has a parent coordinator, the courses are tuition-supported, and the objectives are to establish language learning interest and cultural awareness using the Total Physical Response method. A dramatic…