A study based on recordings of oral information given to the public at information desks. On the basis of the study, sociolinguistic rules valid for the manner of initiating conversation in like situations are derived. Suggestions are offered for the use of such data in foreign language classes. (AMH)

Explores the problem of implicit and explicit knowledge in a second language. The theoretical characterizations of Bialystok and Krashen are shown to be unsatisfactory in addressing these two problems. Some characteristics of explicit knowledge that any improved theory should be able to explain are considered. (SED)

Discusses the literature on interference as the cause of errors in second language speech. A study is reported which shows that interference by the native language is most often the factor responsible for the largest number of mistakes in grammar and vocabulary. (Author/AMH)