The exploration of factors affecting English-speaking skills remains a cornerstone in English language teaching research. However, a notable gap exists concerning the nuanced understanding of the affecting factors, especially within undergraduate contexts through the lens of Stephen Krashen's Second Language Acquisition Theory. This study explored…

It is argued that acculturation, anomie, social distance, and perceived social distance rather than biological factors define a critical period independent of the age of the learner for second language acquisition. Suggestions for planning instructional strategies and selecting materials based on this hypothesis are given. (PMJ)

This study presents direct observation of a 7-year-old, native Spanish-speaking female learning English in a mainstreamed first and second split classroom. Subject is described in the school setting, and it is shown how she worked, what she did during the mornings, how she responded to commands and directions, and how and with whom she…

A collection of papers concerning the communicative approach to second language instruction and the language teacher's training includes: (1) "Relationships between the Teacher, the Learner and Methods in Foreign Language Teaching: Some Basic Considerations," by F. Martin-Molero; (2) "Les Cloisons Etanches entre les Didactiques (The Tight…

This monograph, informed by research on motivational and attitudinal perspectives of secondary school students learning foreign languages in the United Kingdom and Germany, provides information on how to motivate these students. The study focused on two factors that are central to the issue of motivation: the perceived usefulness and the perceived…

The social psychological constructs postulated by Garner, Clement et al. are integrated into a proposed new framework of second/foreign language (L2) learning motivation. The proposed model comprises three levels: language, learner, and learning situation. Practical examples for motivating L2 learners are presented. (55 references) (LB)

Discussion of the problems (other than motivational) encountered by adult language learners focuses on a humanistic approach for the teacher, arguing that better understanding of cultural confusion and dissonance allows the teacher to pair students appropriately, identify sources of student dissatisfaction, and work to overcome inhibitions.…

Describes how the use of stamps from francophone and other countries may be an adjunct to the teaching of French language and culture. (AM)

Data from Think Aloud protocols were used to determine how two groups of adult subjects approached reading. Analysis indicates that vocabulary proficiency has a power impact on psychological processing of second-language reading by novices but also that culturally determined literacy practices may be a factor. (Contains 34 references.) (LB)

A survey conducted in a large, predominantly white suburban high school in the midwest investigated student attitudes toward study of Russian and other foreign languages. Respondents were 815 students of Spanish, French, German, Japanese, and Latin at three levels of instruction. Students were first asked to rank the reasons they chose the…

All speakers alter language stylistically in response to particular social circumstances at the moment of speech. Additionally, bilingual speakers switch codes. In fact, language differentiation and code switching are fundamental to behaving bilingually. This article examines how language differentiation and code switching developed in a young…

This article deals with the role of attitudes in second language acquisition suggested by a social psychological interpretation of the processes involved, and examines several extracurricular programs designed to improve student attitudes and motivation. (CLK)

Describes how Holocaust literature can be used in Israeli English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) high school classrooms, focusing on the importance of the cultural model, language model, and personal growth model when studying literature in ESL classrooms. The article describes a work unit in Holocaust literature and presents sample activities related…

Discusses the use of recordings from Radio Canada and Radio France in advanced high school or college French classes. Techniques for using the recordings, particularly interviews, are suggested. A 16-item selective bibliography is appended. (AM)

Questions regarding reasons students select or decline to study German are examined, based on the results of a survey conducted among students of German in 127 U.S. high schools. Student responses are discussed in the light of academic, demographic, social, and familial considerations, and a profile of the 1990s student of German is constructed.…