Four position papers are presented that were given during a study-week dealing with questions related to language as communication, the notion of argumentation in second language teaching methodology, and ways of introducing argumentation phenomena into the language class. The papers, representing four different positions, are the following: (1)…

Argues that the success of a language course is determined by the teaching method, rather than by instructional materials. Accordingly, suggests a variety of strategies for the notional functional exploitation of traditional texts, and outlines classroom activities apt to encourage communicative competence. (MES)

Explains how the orientation process, using a functional/notional approach to language teaching, provides for specification and ordering of activities in the classroom. Models can be worked out for particular activities and resources can be collected so that the models can be adopted as needed to include a variety of content. (Author/PJM)

Sports and athletics belong to all cultures; at the same time aspects of them are typical of U.S. culture. As a theme they can be used as a springboard for a "transcultural dialogue" in the language acquisition process. A review of literature shows that very little has been written about developing language skills and cultural understanding…

The notion of a communicative approach has developed considerably since it first began to influence teaching practice and as teacher-researchers have refined their understanding of the concept of communicative competence. At present, adopting a communicative approach has two aspects: (1) it means formulating teaching/learning problems in terms of…

A discussion of the functional approach to second language teaching looks at its theoretical foundations and their relationship to communicative language instruction. It locates the origins of the functional approach in early twentieth-century British linguistics and the three key concepts of context of situation, language function, and meaning…

Addresses the question of understanding a foreign culture and its link with vocabulary acquisition in the second-language classroom. Problems in current research and classroom practice are examined. A synthetic approach to culture and vocabulary through modification of a notional/functional syllabus is proposed as a solution to the problems. (SED)

Argues that a truly learner-centered approach in second language teaching should be concerned with allowing learners a greater role in the management of their learning by providing opportunities for learner choice in the method and scope of study. Reports on experiments in this approach at the University College of Bahrain. (SED)

An approach to foreign language instruction was worked out to meet the needs of high school students who were preparing to participate in an international exchange program with French students. The approach uses a combination of the notional-functional syllabus and the regular grammar and vocabulary lessons. Examples in French are provided…

The methodology developed for use in a U.S.-sponsored radio-based English language arts program for grades 1-3 in Kenya, adapted to the special circumstances of the medium, the context, and the program's administrative limitations, is a highly interactive radio lesson whose most important organizational characteristics are adherence to…

Second language students come to the class with knowledge of a first language and with understanding of communication strategies. Creative exercises must build on this basis from the beginning of the course. Short dialogues, structure drills, and controlled grammar sequences based on a real situation should be integrated into the course from the…

This book is intended for teachers who are familiar with the basic techniques of teaching a foreign language and who would profit by suggestions on helping learners acquire a general communicative ability, which would enable them to cope with everyday situations. The starting point is a discussion of a communicative view of language and language…

The following articles are included in this number: "The Compatibility of the Natural Approach and the Communicative Approach," by R. J. Fand; "Teaching Nonverbal Communication Patterns in the ESL Classroom," by K. L. Fitch; "Metacommunication in Accommodated Community Language Learning," by P. G. La Forge; "Content in Composition Courses: Women's…

This paper reviews the application of notional syllabuses and structural curricula to intensive ESL programs. It is suggested that a communicative or functional or functional-notional syllabus must not be viewed in contrast to a structural or grammatical syllabus. Functional notions are necessary inclusions into the class and into texts, but…

The manual is intended for teachers in workplace English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) programs, and contains ideas and techniques that both experienced and less experienced teachers in a wide variety of workplace ESL classes might find helpful. Sections address the following topics: (1) helpful hints for creating a successful educational environment…