For many years (1995-2002), the Department of English of the University of Blida witnessed low rates of academic achievement of students preparing an English Degree. An analysis of the second year students' course grades in academic years 1999-2000 and 2000-2001 and data from a preliminary survey with some teachers reflected signs that the…

This research describes strategies used to improve student achievement in a foreign language class through the use of effective study skills. The targeted population included high school students in a first year foreign language class. Evidence for the problem of low achievement came from teacher observations, student surveys, and low assessment…

This report details one English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) teacher's effort to empower students to become more effective learners during a 10-week teaching experience in Pakistan. The process entailed students' analyzing their own learning styles and strategies, learning new ones, applying them, reflecting on their experiences, and making choices…

This report describes a program for improving listening skills, lack of which interferes with second language acquisition. The targeted population was first- and second-year Spanish students in one middle school and one high school. Intervention over 15 weeks included changes in the classroom environment (desk arrangement, improved lighting,…

A study was conducted to determine which approach for vocabulary development--isolated word lists, context clues, or a combination of both--would yield the best results. One sample of 17 sophomores used isolated word lists. The second sample of 20 freshmen used context clues to determine word meaning. The third sample of 13 sophomores used a…

Focusing on spelling as an integral part of the writing process, this annotated bibliography addresses the problem of developing individualized, focused, and relevant methods for teaching spelling to elementary students. The annotations are organized around two specific questions: What strategies do children use to spell words and what…

This annotated bibliography of research articles pertaining to the use of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) in the development of reading comprehension skills in students of all ages and abilities is introduced by brief statements of the problem addressed and the purpose, organization, and limitations of the study. A glossary is also provided.…

A program was designed to improve the reading skills of the second grade at-risk students in a suburban K-6 elementary school located northwest of Chicago, Illinois. The second grade at-risk students could not read fluently at the conclusion of the academic school year, and consequently did not exhibit strong reading comprehension skills. A…