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…

The phenomenon of the modified register, here termed Foreigner Register, the register of language that is used by language teachers with students of perceived low language proficiency, is discussed. As used by language teachers, Foreigner Register is well formed and simplified or modified in terms of syntax, phonology, and lexis. The…

An adaptation of the dialog journal technique, used for teacher training purposes, is described. The journals were used as medium of communication between novice teachers of English as a second language and their supervisors in a field practicum course. Journals were studied to quantify the types of student comments made, and to track the changes…

In a study of instructional actions and decision making, videotapes and interviews of six preservice English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) teachers were used to determine the ways in which teachers received and responded to student input during second-language instruction. The findings highlight the cognitive demands on preservice ESL teachers. (27…

Techniques for getting students of English as a second language to communicate in the classroom beginning on the first day are based on a relaxed classroom atmosphere and a well-prepared teacher. First-day activities should be well-planned, clearly presented, and move at a pace that keeps students' attention. The goal is for students to respond…

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)

The amount of instructional time lost to transitional activities by student teachers, and techniques to minimize this time loss, are discussed. Time lost is estimated to average 9 percent, varying with the individual teacher. Suggestions are given for teacher supervisors to help student teachers optimize their class time. (MSE)

Discusses the advantages of play-acting for teaching English to children. The play is a challenge that is not examination based, it breaks down barriers between teacher and learners, the speaking-load is spread among the students, many different skills are harnessed, and parents can witness their children's progress. Other considerations are…

A two-step procedure is outlined for encouraging student involvement and interest in language learning on the first two days in class. First, the teacher establishes an information flow in English from students to instructor, creating an environment of goodwill. Then communication begins in French as students and instructor introduce themselves.…

Argues that student teacher portfolios are a viable, effective, appropriate tool for documenting teacher growth and development and for promoting reflective practice. Traces the unique paths of two pre-service foreign language teachers who constructed a professional identity from the historical and cultural conditions of their classroom…

Inservice training programs on the needs of English as a second language (ESL) students may help writing lab staffs work more effectively. The training program could be a series of sessions devoted to six areas of concern: bridging the culture gap; profiling students' strengths and weaknesses; identifying error patterns on which to work in the…

Advocates teaching communicative skills through strategies that rely on real life situations and encourage students' performance of different social roles. Recommends de-emphasizing teacher presentation in favor of learner's practice and interaction with other learners. This stimulates creative manipulation of variable, open-ended materials…

The initial phase of an intensive language proqram relying on emotional involvement and close, interpersonal teacher/student contact is described. For duplication elsewhere, an overview is provided of the curriculum, syllabus, Master/Apprentice teaching team, student input, teacher evaluations, and funding. (PMJ)

Activities that have helped to make the Watervliet (New York) High School Russian language education program highly successful involve return visits by former students who are using their Russian language skills in various ways after graduation. These graduates include student teachers of Russian, college students taking Russian to satisfy a…

FLAME (Foreign Language Alternative Mastery Example) is a model for foreign language in the elementary school (FLES), conducted after school and focused on development of a broad vocabulary base, especially cognates and terms relevant to the student's everyday environment. In the program, FLES student teachers collaborate with a university-based…