Describes immersion education as practiced in Canada, outlining immersion programs' background, structure, methodology, and outcomes. Suggests that, to achieve the outcomes of immersion education developed for majority language groups, some minority language groups may require programs beginning in the first language and continuing in both the…

The relational roles of the consultant, principal, and classroom teacher in Canada's core, extended, and immersion French programs are examined. Discussion focuses on the relationship between professional practice and instructional substantiveness, and it is argued that isolated and uncoordinated professional practice is counterproductive. (32…

Discusses a program outline for French language instruction covering the first four years of study and five levels. The GLAFLL program (Graded Levels of Achievement in Foreign Language Learning), under study at the Education Center of Edinburgh, is based on the communicative competence approach and stresses student participation. (MES)

Research on multilingualism and learning of additional languages is reviewed, focusing on research on minority language children in immersion and double-immersion programs and the factors related to success. Early partial immersion is seen as more feasible than full immersion for this group, with middle immersion the best option yet researched.…

A specialist conceptualization of French-language teacher education is proposed for Western Canada where French is a minority language. The discussion addresses the philosophical basis for this approach, the three forms of French language schooling, contributions of bilingual educational methods, and program design. (MSE)

Important features of practicums for teachers of elementary school language immersion programs include: mentoring and peer coaching; guidance in self-analysis, observation, and reflection on teaching practices; and experience with realities of immersion. A period of induction beyond the practicum is also recommended. (19 references) (MSE)

A student exchange program in which Italian secondary students of French visited Lyon is described, including the impetus for the trip (a European Community initiative to promote international exchange), the search for an exchange partner institution, program design and planning, the trip itself, and evaluation of the effort. (MSE)

Existing empirical research on core French instruction is reviewed, and research directions are proposed in four areas: program design, program objectives and outcomes, curriculum issues, and teacher education. Experimentation with alternative instructional designs for delivery of core French is seen as a high priority. (84 references) (Author/MSE)