With the rapid implementation of early foreign language programmes in the state of North-Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, first for Grade 3 (ages 8-9 years) in 2003 and then from Grade 1 (ages 6-7 years) in 2008, primary school teachers had to adapt to teaching a foreign language in Grade 1 quickly. Teachers had little experience with language teaching…

This article briefly reviews the social, political, and economic context that explains the present status of elementary language education in the United States and addresses the challenges identified by recent reports on the state of language education in the United States. Different curricular models of world language education--exploratory,…

This article peers through the lens of one district's journey of World Languages program refinement, and identifies a blueprint for success by aligning targets. The author begins by proposing the following questions: (1) Is your program where you want it to be? (2) Is it producing desired results? and (3) Are students yielding the greatest results…

Educators have generally believed that foreign language instruction should begin in kindergarten or earlier to promote optimum oral language development (e.g., Abbott, 1998; Curtain & Dahlberg, 2010; Rhodes & Pufahl, 2010; Rosenbusch, 1991; Swender & Duncan, 1998). This article describes two Spanish programs in the Westport…

The state of Utah is leading the nation in a surge of new elementary language immersion programs. Their unprecedented growth of programs, over a four-year span, has been both intentional and systemic, taking advantage of a supportive base and promoting language learning as a way to increase economic benefits for the state. While math and science…

This article reports on the implementation of the Integrated Performance Assessment (IPA) in an Early Foreign Language Learning program. The goal of this research was to examine the performance of grade 4 and 5 students of Spanish on the IPA. Performance across the three communicative tasks is described and modifications to IPA procedures based on…

Although researchers have begun to explore the implementation of dynamic assessment (DA) with foreign language learners, few of these studies have occurred in the language classroom. Whereas DA is typically implemented in dyads, promising research in the field of foreign language learning suggests that DA may promote development with groups of…

The reasons why a child should learn a foreign language, and particularly, which foreign language study should begin in elementary school, are discussed. The kinds of programs generally available in elementary schools are described. Sources of information and assistance for parents who want to start language programs in their schools are given.…

Describes the approach to foreign language study adopted by the Baltimore public schools, including their foreign language requirements and a comparison of Baltimore's program with the recommendations of the National Advisory Board on International Education Programs. Includes addresses for more information on implementing foreign language…

Hypothesizes that second language learning at the elementary level results in an increased development of potential creativity in children. (DS)

Suggests six changes in the teaching of foreign languages in the elementary school (FLES), among them increased attention to cultural understanding and the integration of FLES into the language arts program. (DD)

A colloquium convened at the Deutsches Haus in New York is summarized that brought together experts to discuss (1) the significance foreign languages have for other elementary school subjects, and (2) what function the other subjects serve for early foreign language learning. The following six topics, guided by session leaders, provided the…

Some simple word games are suggested to aid in teaching foreign languages at the elementary level. (CK)

Describes progress and improvement in the process of language learning and teaching. (Editor/IR)

A revised version of testimony in favor of support for foreign language education at all levels. The need for Americans to become more proficient in foreign languages in view of economic, social, and political interdependence; the advantage of an early start; and support for advanced foreign language study are discussed. (AMH)