Smith's approach to reading comprehension is used as the basis of an activity related to the Use of English Exam in Hong Kong. The eight-step activity is described and shown to combine sound reading theory with an academic, test-oriented syllabus. (3 references) (LB)

Self-instruction, more likely applied to adult learners, depended on the extent to which learners more or less consciously make decisions about aspects of the learning situation and control them. Issues of control are discussed and examples of relevant learning situations are offered, including group work and computer-assisted learning. (16…

Ways for language teachers to make effective use of a class library are suggested with focus on selection of suitable books, provision of sufficient reading time in class, and varieties of library activities for primary schools. The Hong Kong approach is cited. (LB)

Five activities help students learn a language while fostering cooperation and spirit among the students. They include same or different words, a vocabulary review called "Grab the Tail," a mental activity "triangle," a crossword puzzle-type grid, and chains of words called "From This to That." (LB)

It is argued that, although materials are an important form of support to language classroom activities, they also constitute a constraint that can undermine the value of those activities for the processes of learning. (three references) (LB)

Video has been readily adapted into the language teacher's materials repertoire but not as readily as it could be. Issues discussed include filming, the academic "talking head," reactions to audio and video presentations, editing, prerecorded activities and video exploitation techniques, and arguments against classroom video. (12 references) (LB)

Illustrated cards can be used in language classes to prompt students to respond with spontaneity and free expression. A variety of games and cards such as "Concentration" are described, and it is argued that some language goals can be practiced more effectively by card games than by traditional textbook-pencil-teacher approaches. (12…

Some practical suggestions for using Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) are presented to help teachers overcome difficulties with jargon and logistics. They cover selecting hardware, obtaining software (commercial and authoring), organizing resources, training, and implementation. (17 references) (LB)

The need for uncomplicated and inexpensive language learning materials is noted, and several examples are described: "real items" such as the contents of a drawer; newspapers and magazines; and sets of instructions. Ways to use each in the classroom are discussed. (LB)

Some guidelines are offered that detail the complexities involved in interviewing for language testing purposes. They cover strategies for structuring interviews (informal conversational, interview guide, standardized open-ended), questions, interviewing skills, and physical setting. (five references) (LB)

Some aural activities are described that can help language students with their listening comprehension. They include dictation, a "who am I?" exercise, sketch-drawing, chart completion, a comparison exercise, and a flow diagram. (LB)

It is predicted that the apparent trend toward the reinstatement of literature within language courses will continue, and student involvement in the creative process is advocated. A small project carried out at the Guangzhou Institute of Foreign Languages in China is described. (19 references) (LB)

In the Dictagloss method, a short text is read at normal speed to a class of learners who jot down familiar words as they listen. Students then gather in small groups to review and reconstruct a version of the text and then compare their version with that of other groups. Implications for creativity and memory are discussed. (three references) (LB)

Nonnative university students have difficulty coping with lectures given in English and need authentic and relevant material in listening and note-taking courses. One approach based on a transcription of a paleontology lecture is presented, suggested by linguistic analysis of 40 science lectures at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman. (four…

After noting limited interest in the teaching and/or testing of paralinguistic features of spoken English, this article describes a test that includes a number of items uttered differently, which students are asked to interpret. Suggestions are offered regarding test administration, test items, and student evaluation. (five references) (LB)