The author argues that foreign language instruction in the United States is generally begun too late and that it must be started at the elementary school level. (CFM)

The problem of when to begin foreign language instruction is considered. Detailed criticism is made of the conclusions of "Primary French in the Balance." An early start may be favored because of the effect on children's minds, and teaching and school improvements may solve problems of transition to advanced stages. (CHK)

This report begins with a list of the publications of the national FLES Committee and an introduction in which T. Andersson describes how FLES programs can adopt bilingual education practices. Seventeen papers are included in the report. R. Bennett and M. Lala discuss how FLES programs can be individualized. Specific teaching techniques are…

This article discusses the question of the optimal age for second language learning by providing some background and by comparing relevant British and Canadian language teaching programs. (CLK)

A British experiment in teaching French in primary schools was evaluated from 1964-1974 by the National Foundation for Educational Research. This paper describes the experiment and the students, their progress, and results of the study. (CHK)

This article questions the validity of many conclusions of the ten-year experiment with teaching French in primary schools in England and Wales in the report, "Primary French in the Balance." Some conclusions are based on restricted opinion conflicting with report data. Parallels are drawn with the "Pennsylvania Project." (CHK)

This is a report of the findings of a longitudinal study of the immersion program in one school district through the primary grades, and a description of the British Columbia French Study, an evaluation of elementary French programs in the province. Discussion includes grade level and staffing questions. (AMH)

A first report on an attempt to introduce a second language, specifically German, in four state schools in Australia. The rationale, details about the program, a summary of the teaching, the relationship between FLES, bilingual education and general language programs, and the question of continuity are discussed. (AMH)

A listing of French immersion programs in Canada is given, including city and school board, date started, grades involved and projected to be involved, and a program description. (RM)

Native speakers of English entering kindergarten or grade one of the Cincinnati Public Schools are offered the opportunity to learn French, German, or Spanish. Not only do students learn a second language, but it is also used as a medium of instruction in later grades. (Author/SW)

An overview of the status and goals of bilingual education in terms of the FLES experience. It is suggested that bilingual education will be successful if it is properly documented in terms of program achievement. A central agency is needed to interpret and disseminate data collected at the local level. (AMH)

Research is presented in support of the theory that early French immersion of English-speaking children leads to bilingualism. The evidence is limited to children through the end of grade four. Comments and criticisms are made by three guest analysts. (RM)