Reviews four approaches to selecting language textbooks and outlines points to be considered before selecting. (CK)

Addresses the problem of the scarcity of instructional materials for teaching Italian and contemporary Italian culture to beginning college students. Looks at current practices and materials. Argues the need for preassessing cultural content of structural materials and suggests some criteria for devising supplementary cultural materials, along…

Describes and compares five basic German texts for high school students and includes the evaluative criteria used. (CK)

A simplified formula for teaching German word order to American students is suggested. Other formulas in a few manuals are reviewed; suggestions for application of this one are offered. Consistent use of the formula has resulted in quicker development of a native feeling for the structure of the language. (AMH)

Suggests there is a need for a new teaching model which will enable second-language students to integrate the formal, cultural, and informational features of the language on which competency is based. This model should be based on the use of authentic texts which reflect the values of the foreign population. (SED)

A survey was made of 112 readers earmarked for students ranging from the beginning level in the secondary school to the intermediate level in college. The readers intended to be read by beginning and intermediate students are described, following a brief discussion of what reading involves. (Author/RM)

This article surveys a sample of first-year college Spanish textbooks published in the 1970s. The textbooks are analyzed on the basis of the following components: grammar, exercises, pronunciation, language skills, vocabulary, review sections, culture, dialogues, special features, workbooks, and contents of the instructor's manual. (CFM)