The current climate in education environments necessitates the collaboration on and sharing of research done by teacher educators and professional developers. In an era of high-stakes assessment driven by international tests, professionals are looking for research-based or evidence-based initiatives and approaches to enhance teacher learning,…

The ability to effectively communicate with individuals from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds is an invaluable asset. Learning a second language proves useful as students navigate the culturally diverse world; however, studying a second language can be difficult for learners who are not immersed in the real and natural environment of…

Benefits of a learner-based video production project in second-language learning are examined. Emphasis is on the communicative and interactive potential of such a project. The difference between process and product is discussed. (12 references) (LB)

Presents an approach to language and culture instruction for North American students of Spanish that centers on student-led investigations of cultural identity in the Americas, designed to allow students to overcome possible stereotypes and generalizations concerning the target culture(s), and to examine their own cultural identities at the same…

A classroom technique for helping elementary and secondary school students of English as a second language (ESL) integrate language skills into the language arts curriculum is described. The activity, shadow play, is used as a culminating experience in a unit on the solar system, and consists of the development of dramatic scripts based on folk…

A class activity in which intermediate-level French second language students create their own comic books is outlined. Objectives, classroom presentation techniques, format, project duration, and evaluation criteria are specified. The project includes groups writing and editing and oral presentations. (MSE)

The Internet is a powerful tool for language teaching. Web-based student projects can motivate students to study English. A Web project is an assignment in which students make a Web page and post it online for other people to read or see. This type of project is good for promoting cultural awareness and improving students' writing and presentation…

Two assignments used in a commercial French course are modeled after case studies often required in business courses. They serve three functions for commercial French students: (1) to increase awareness of foreign investments and business in the United States as well as American business activities abroad, (2) to give students valuable experience…

Ways are presented that German composers and painters can be introduced to second-year language students through interactive oral presentations using cassettes, reproductions of art works, and slides. (Author/LB)

An approach is offered for U.S. high school students to speak German in the world of business. With the help of a Hamburg-based business, students learned how to read German classified ads, to discuss qualifications and personal characteristics required for specific jobs, and to write narrative job descriptions. (Author/LB)

Four ideas for classroom French language instruction are described, including an exercise in selection of passive and active voice, a project in which students prepare transparencies for an oral presentation, an activity in which Italian students develop a tour for French visitors, and a radio broadcast project. (MSE)

Teachers of English as a Second Language (ESL) are responsible not only for teaching students about the rules of language, but also for encouraging the understanding of and empathy for those who are native and non-native speakers of the target language. Where there is cultural diversity, there is often intolerance, and Taiwan is no exception. A…

The theory that the goal of public performance can be used as a motivating tool in foreign language learning is the basis for the annual German-cafe theater evening described here. The evening of refreshments and entertainment, entirely produced by the German classes, illustrates authentic German cultural activities. (PMJ)

Techniques for combining a communicative approach to second language teaching with assessment and use of Internet resources are presented. Emphasis is on beginning and intermediate language instruction. Two levels of student assessment projects designed for a unit on community and neighborhood are presented. The novice project involves exploration…

Four activities for the French language classroom are described, including a comprehension game based on the cow's digestive system, a group journal exercise using current events, an economics vocabulary development activity, and a grammar exercise focusing on the use of determiners in news articles. (MSE)