Examines word "communicative" and nature of communication and suggests it should not be applied to a methodology. Draws distinction between "communicative" and "noncommunicative" activities while claims each has its place in balanced approach to language teaching. (Author/BK)

In response to a challenge that those concerned with communicative competence find an alternative to the traditional comprehension question, it is proposed that the tables be turned and the student be encouraged to initiate questions. This technique would require a change in classroom atmosphere, student role, and sometimes, teacher attitude. (MSE)

An English-as-a-Foreign Language instructor's repertoire of effective classroom activities is extended not only through acquiring useful, new ideas, but through adapting these activities (new and old) for varied needs and purposes. This article focuses on the potential for adaptation of one popular, communicative activity: "Find someone who..."…

Issues regarding the development of student's speaking skills and English as a second language (ESL) techniques designed to improve the teaching of conversation are described. Ten true and false assumptions about the teaching of conversation are considered: (1) everyone enjoys talking and participating in class discussion; (2) discussion topics in…

Six captioned illustrations present humorous situations for classroom discussion. A list of appropriate German vocabulary words and phrases (and English translations) accompanies each illustration. (MSE)

States that a major source of frustration for the second language teacher is the difficulty of bridging the gap between the formal aspects of language and the exploitation of the language in authentic situations. Suggests steps that can be taken to overcome the problem and to meet students' expectations. (MES)

Three essays concerning second language classroom activities that promote learning of communication skills are presented. In "From Manipulation to Communication" (Renate A. Schulz), the importance of establishing minimal communicative objectives for classroom instruction skills is discussed, specifying situations in which students have to…

Describes classroom language as used in teaching an FL, recognizing it as belonging to an artificial rather than a real-life situation; this fact must be kept in mind and "the game played" in the classroom. Examples are given. (IFS/WGA)

Presents a variety of materials that can be used to supplement the textbook and to meet some sudden need or instructional purpose. Focuses especially on materials to be used in the classroom to build communicative competence and student interaction. Practice activities illustrate the use of strip stories, logic puzzles, and others. (MES)

Examines directions suggested by studies in communicative competence, cognitive mapping of learning styles, and classroom interaction, seeking integration with a basically audiolingual approach to second language instruction. Suggests alternate ways of conducting classes to help teachers meet students' individual learning needs while still using…

Aims to give the teacher a practical framework which can be used in the classroom. The analysis of the framework is based on tape recordings of classroom lessons in the teaching of English as a second language (ESL) in Germany and on observations during a project on bilingual education in Wales. (AMH)

Principles and techniques important in the integration of real communication skills and practice in classroom activities within a student-centered curriculum are outlined and discussed. The need for a classroom environment promoting real communication is stressed, and materials design principles are noted. The role of explicit grammar instruction…

Discusses an approach to analyzing teacher talk in second-language classrooms that assumes communicative classrooms are characterized by teacher talk reflecting external communication patterns. Argues that this analysis is over-simplistic, ignoring the reality of the classroom context and the features that make for effective communication within…

The guide describes classroom second language teaching techniques, based on materials developed for use in Peace Corps language training. They are primarily designed for listening and oral language skill development, but could be adapted for written language skill practice. The techniques are divided into two types: those for improving students'…

In traditional, grammar-oriented second language classrooms, the most common classroom procedure is for the teacher to ask the student a question for which the answer is already known to both. Because no real information is exchanged, this is not a communicative practice. It is alien to the real communicative needs of students, involves no…