This article explores how ideology is embedded in the cultural content of textbooks used in Germany's integration courses for migrants. Using critical multimodal discourse analysis, I analyze two dimensions of meaning in linguistic and visual (multimodal) texts: meaning as representation and meaning as inter/action. I analyze how social actors are…

Families have been faced with new challenges and uncertainties during the unprecedented times when the world came to a standstill due to COVID-19 in March 2020. The pandemic caused a shut-down of schools and a shift to a remote learning environment with little chance to prepare and understand learning expectations from schools and other…

This volume offers a comprehensive, up-to-date, empirical and methodological view over the new scenarios and environments for language teaching and learning recently emerged (e.g. blended learning, e-learning, ubiquitous learning, social learning, autonomous learning or lifelong learning), and also over some of the new approaches to language…

Some ideas are presented for structuring student groups in second-language classes in a way to encourage them to work together more productively. Eight types of positive interdependence are explained. (Contains 14 references.) (LB)

Progressive format or sequencing of strategies in the conversation class is proposed as a solution to the problems of conversation grouping for foreign students. Structures and formats and sample activities are outlined for the six activity categories or strategies: restructuring, one-centered, unified group, dyad, small group, and large group.…

A collection of 25 games, some illustrated, for English language instruction includes information exchange games for pairs and small groups (Describe and Draw, Describe and Arrange, Construct It, Describe and Construct, Find the Difference, Complete It, Ask the Right Question, Compare and Check, Rescue), linking and matching games (Use It, Picture…

Describes application of cooperative-learning techniques to a translation course, using small group discussions to collectively arrive at more in-depth understanding of source texts and greater grammatical correctness, accuracy, and faithfulness. Argues that social support is important as participants share difficulties, gain confidence and…

A classroom discussion activity is described that uses the teacher as an impartial moderator. Students' written responses to a selected subject are organized and commented on by the group, under the teacher's supervision. Suggestions are given for course organization and sequence, extent of teacher involvement in the discussion, and logistics.…

Classroom creative problem-solving activities were developed around clearly defined problems having many possible solutions and entailing a situation where reality is slightly skewed. Working in small groups, students role-play by becoming "experts" at the matter in hand. A group secretary keeps students accountable for their time. Problem-solving…

This article considers how to get students to form groups in the language classroom. It focuses on two related questions: (1) how big should small groups be? and (2) what other grouping criteria should be considered besides group size? (Contain 14 references.) (LB)

Suggestions are offered for activities that encourage language learners to communicate with each other in class using the target language. The activities include student pairs and small groups explaining picture stories and answering questions and solving problems presented in short stories. (13 references) (LB)

Describes use of Circles of Knowledge designed to generate excitement about foreign language learning as technique for individualized instruction. Includes guidelines for using, organizing, and implementing this method. (BK)

With philosophic and theoretical emphases on group learning and individual empowerment, adult education is ideally suited for cooperative learning, particularly in areas such as adult basic education and English as a second language where learners are culturally, linguistically, and academically diverse. Small group learning, with its attendant…

Describes a small-group activity, the German "circle games," which turn grammatical exercises into meaningful communicative activities by introducing pantomime, props, and pictures for providing contexts. Students drill specific grammatical features while communicating real information. The multisensory experience and the contextualization of…

Reports on an attempt to alter both the students' and the teacher's concepts of the teacher as "one who teaches" and the student as "one who is taught." Methods are described for developing student self-esteem and self-reliance through group interaction and group cooperation. Interpersonal communication skills are developed in this manner.…