Discusses a three-stage approach for teaching advanced conversation. Students master related course material, write and perform a miniplay based on that material, and then "survive" in a situation based on the material. Use of the videotape recorder can bring added motivation and better performance. Its advantages and disadvantages are discussed.…

Issues regarding the development of student's speaking skills and English as a second language (ESL) techniques designed to improve the teaching of conversation are described. Ten true and false assumptions about the teaching of conversation are considered: (1) everyone enjoys talking and participating in class discussion; (2) discussion topics in…

Memorization and recitation of dialogues are an important part of English as a second language (ESL) courses. However, if the goal of using dialogues is to promote free conversation, the practice of reciting dialogues must entail more than the rote memorization of another's thoughts. Therefore, the talk-and-listen method is a good technique for…

This paper describes a formal communication game which requires the students to process other players' utterances for implicit meaning before responding. The game can be adapted for content and difficulty level. Students choose between two alternatives on dimensions such as structure and style. Sample games are included. (SW)

Presents a language teaching method designed to increase communicative competence through an application of speech act theory and the use of dialogs and the source language. (AM)

Describes a situation-centered approach to second language acquisition and provides examples of class activities, assignments, and exams. (EKN)

Discusses theories behind the shift in emphasis from drill to communication practice. Concludes that students' awareness of their learning process helps bridge this gap. Includes communication exercises promoting natural information exchange which motivate students to take responsibility for improving their communicative skills. (PMJ)

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)

Describes schedules and activities of the summer and weekend foreign language immersion programs at the State University of New York College at New Paltz. Gives some highlights of last summer's program. (EKN)

Describes a curriculum based on a notional-functional process used to assist advanced ESL students in handling real-life situations. Suggestions for central and spin-off topics include: goals setting, values clarification, the world of work, and apartment hunting. The course forces the authentic use of English and teaches several skills. (PMJ)

This booklet outlines the instructions for 10 games that have proved to be effective in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) courses. The games presented are divided into four categories: dialog games, vocabulary games, structure focus, and pronunciation practice. "The Chain Game" calls for students to take turns asking each other…

The guide is designed for use in English-as-a-Second-Language instruction at the intermediate level. The activities are designed to be enjoyable and encourage students to interact, but also to be non-threatening to even the most reserved students. The exercises develop strategic conversation skills. Each has three parts: a teacher's introduction;…

Discusses strategies designed to cope with problems encountered at the college level that are caused by students' diversity in background and levels of competency. Alternatives to the lock-step method of instruction, with applicability at both the college and high school level, are described. (EJS)

Progressive format or sequencing of strategies in the conversation class is proposed as a solution to the problems of conversation grouping for foreign students. Structures and formats and sample activities are outlined for the six activity categories or strategies: restructuring, one-centered, unified group, dyad, small group, and large group.…

Discusses the use of two-way amateur radio contacts in language courses to provide personal contact with speakers of the target language. Pilot courses in German and Spanish are described as well as a curriculum-based, interuniversity German conversation course, and an activity utilizing CB radio equipment. (AMH)