Discusses humorous incidences of translating an idiom from one language literally into another. Notes that words with a similar look or sound in English and the target language, or within the target language, cause confusion. (Author/CK)

Argues that the primary mode of expression of a significant proportion of contemporary literary and historical criticism (the stock in trade of Australian Arts faculties) is the French language. Emphasizes that knowledge of French prejudices and inclinations can only be gained by learning French. (two references) (Author/CK)

Describes a study of the teaching of junior secondary French in Queensland schools. The key questions in the study regarding how communicative Australians are and should be are considered through empirical data collected in four junior secondary French classes over two years. The study involved observation and analysis of classroom interaction.…

Discusses the language problems in Roch Carrier's French Canadian short stories, as well as his concise, nostalgic writing style. The article gives examples of vocabulary in his characters' dialogue; reviews the evolvement of French in Quebec and the question of "joual," in particular; and focuses on expressions posing difficulty for…

Describes the use of community broadcasting in language learning with specific reference to an experience in a French program at tertiary level. Notes that the principles and procedures discussed are equally applicable to the teaching and learning of languages at earlier phases of schooling. (eight references) (Author/CK)

Focuses on the effectiveness of the communicative approach to language learning, with particular reference to the new French syllabus in Australia. Concludes that although the communicative approach appears to be working for many students, there is a need for teachers to focus on grammatical structures and form for optimal learning to take place.…

Focuses on model for implementing a primary language program in Australia. Parameters of this model were: an intensive beginners' course introduced at year 5 level; the language program be part of the mainstream curriculum and be allocated at least six hours per week; the language taught be Indonesian or French; and a maintenance program of at…

Suggests that language awareness, or consciousness raising, has great potential in second-language learning. Language awareness presents students with linguistic data so they can work out grammatical rules for themselves. Offers a variety of examples of possible language-awareness lessons, first for the teaching of English, then for the teaching…

Focuses on the challenges associated with the introduction of language education in a secondary classroom containing learners of diverse backgrounds. Presents the results of action research of two groups of girls studying French. Findings indicate that a large group of learners can develop language skills through pair work and group activities and…

Reflects on the achievement in math and science of Australian students in an immersion French program. The immersion math students outperformed mainstream students at a level not significantly different, and by the end of the first year, the science students performed as well as their mainstream counterparts, indicating that immersion students…

Argues that a better understanding of the workings of one's first language--English, for most Australians--can facilitate the acquisition and appreciation of another language. The article exploits the morphology and syntax of English in the following areas: liaison, emphasis, stress, separable and inseparable verbs, dental suffixes, weak and…