Presents an approach for developing oral proficiency in the advanced conversation course that proposes, as an organizing principle, the use of Swales's concept of genre as a class of communicative events that share a communicative purpose. It is concluded that focus on genre can improve proficiency performance and articulation. (eight references)…

Presents an oral, contextual approach to Spanish subjunctive study (for elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels) and describes sample exercises for: verbs of implied command, impersonal expressions implying command or judgment, verbs of emotions, expressions of wish and desire, expressions of doubt and denial, adjective clauses, and…

Presents a technique devised to help intermediate Spanish students master the art of communication over the telephone and outlines the specific learning and testing activities and pedagogical rationale behind them. The technique can also be used to test oral competence and aural proficiency. (SED)

The development and instruction of a course in survival Spanish at Sauk Valley Community College (Illinois) are described. The course, taught for over 15 years and targeted at groups such as teachers, nurses, social workers, counselors, and secretaries, is offered as a model for courses in real-life communication for a variety of professions.…