Exploring multilingualism as a complex, context-related, societal and individual phenomenon, this book centres around perspectives on how multiple languages are made (in)visible within educational settings in the Global North. The authors of each chapter compare and contrast findings across geographical contexts with the goal of understanding the…

Raimes' article on the history of second-language approaches to teaching writing is reviewed and criticized for its failure to support a social context approach to teaching writing. Raimes' response to Canagarajah supports her original position. (11 references) (LB)

A variety of ideas for classroom second language learning activities are presented. Most are for the intermediate level, but some beginning and advanced level activities are included. Two elements are common to all of them: regard for the cultural element in the language and maintenance of a low-risk, non-intimidating classroom atmosphere. The…

Outlines an approach, designed for upper level German students, to studying GDR film which focuses on the relationship between film art and socialist ideology. (EKN)

This discussion treats cultural stereotypes as a significant issue in second-language instruction, and examines the role of video documents from the mass media in helping students perceive and understand such stereotypes. (MSE)

This paper outlines the possible impact of Bakhtinian theory concept in English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) instruction. Bakhtin views on the culturally and politically embedded nature of language and addressivity and answerability are ideal for discussion of cross-cultural communication. His cultural and political context are inseparable from an…

The proverbial language of Spanish provides a resource for teaching and testing various aspects of phonetics, syntax, vocabulary, and cultural features of the language. Incorporation of these features into the Spanish curriculum can enrich the classroom experience. Specific suggestions for their use are provided. (Author/MSE)

Drawing on ethnographic research on Hmongs, the author illustrates how her assumptions about literacy have been challenged and presents a new view of literacy with emphasis shifted from cognitive consequences to social context: literacy as a means through which relationships are negotiated. Makes suggestions for creating…

"Taiguu hyoogen," which refers to expressions chosen to express levels of politeness and formality in Japanese, is described as a requirement for socialization and a key component in language teaching. Pedagogical implications are discussed. (Contains 17 references.) (LB)

Cognitive and affective responses to one authentic and three edited texts were examined with four levels of university-level learners of Spanish. Results indicated that all students comprehended significantly more from the authentic passage than from the edited ones and also responded more favorably to the authentic passages. (Contains 47…

Printed advertisements from magazines and billboards, stored on slides, are recommended as fertile sources of cultural information for French language instruction. They create a simultaneous visual impact on all students, are easily stored and used, can be kept current, and promote communicative activities in the classroom. (11 references) (MSE)

Considerations when looking for theory to support translation practice include how the theory treats the concept of "word," the notion of "comprehension," the "finality" of the text, text type, and the distinction made between reception and reproduction of the message. Sociocultural and situational context influence the literalness of the…

A conference held in Lebanon to discuss and solidify the role of French as the country's second language is reported. Factors endangering the status of French, the political and cultural role of the language, and French-Lebanese cooperative efforts in support of French language and culture are outlined. (MSE)

Examines the history of education in Australia from the viewpoint of language and culture. The major emphasis is on what happened in relation to the Aboriginal languages in this country, considering policy, bilingualism among Aboriginal people, legal aspects related to language problems in Australia, and other issues. (JN)

The value of literature as instructional material in English as a second language is related to the fact that to understand literature, not only the language system but also the contextual meaning must be understood. In addition, the fictional element of literature can add interest for students. (MSE)