Grammar competition has been proposed as a model for second language (L2) acquisition. Variational Learning provides a framework within which to investigate the idea of grammar competition as the model requires a marriage of quantitative properties of the input with Universal Grammar. A diachronic variational model of grammar competition is…

Issues and patterns in second language learning are discussed, drawing on a 1985 study with learners of English as a second language in Australia. Discussion begins with an analysis of the process of learning one form of verb marking, the ending "-ing." The inherent complexity of this form in English is examined, and ways in which…

Formulaic speech, expressions learned as unanalyzed wholes and used on particular occasions by native speakers, is contrasted to "grammatical" sentences using novel combinations of words in the second language classroom. The speech produced by three limited English-speaking children in an English program suggests that formulaic speech…

Papers from a conference on the teaching of grammar, particularly in second language instruction, include: "Grammar: Acquisition and Use" (Richard Johnstone); "Grammar and Communication" (Brian Page); "Linguistic Progression and Increasing Independence" (Bernardette Holmes); "La grammaire? C'est du bricolage!" ("Grammar? That's Hardware!") (Barry…

This guide, entirely in French, is designed for language training of Peace Corps workers in Tunisia and reflects daily communication needs in that context. It consists of 25 theme-based lessons, each containing a situational dialogue, vocabulary, and exercises. The exercises focus more on new vocabulary and its usage than on systematic grammar…

The textbook for Mongolian is designed for the language training of Peace Corps volunteers serving in Mongolia, and intended for use with an instructor. Each lesson is based on a specific language use competency, and lessons are organized according to ten themes. Lessons contain a dialogue, vocabulary, grammar notes, supplementary vocabulary in…

This guide is designed for Russian language training of Peace Corps workers in Russia, and reflects daily communication needs in that context. It consists of seven instructional units. An introductory section gives an overview of the Russian language, Cyrillic alphabet, phonology, and morphology. The first instructional unit is intended as a…

This guide is designed for Spanish language training of Peace Corps workers in Uruguay, and reflects daily communication needs in that context. It consists of 11 instructional units, each addressing four to seven specific language competencies. A table of contents outlines the targeted competencies and content for each unit. The units contain…

This guide is designed for Albanian language training of Peace Corps workers in Albania, is intended to be used in a competency-based language training program, and reflects daily communication needs in that context. It consists of an introductory section on the history, alphabet, and phonology of the Albanian language and a series of 14 topical…

This guide is designed for Latvian language training of Peace Corps workers in Latvia, is intended for use in a competency-based language training program, and reflects daily communication needs in that context. It consists of an introductory section on the history, alphabet, and phonology of the Latvian language and a series of 13 topical…

This guide is designed for Tagalog language training of Peace Corps workers in the Philippines, and reflects daily communication needs in that context. It consists of: a quick reference to common expressions and phrases; a series of topical vocabulary and phrase lists; targeted core language competencies, at three proficiency levels; a…

This guide is designed for Estonian language training of Peace Corps workers in Estonia, is intended for use in a competency-based language training program, and reflects daily communication needs in that context. It consists of 52 lessons, each addressing a specific language competency, organized in 14 topical units. An introductory section gives…

This guide is designed for Zarma language training of Peace Corps workers in agriculture in Nigeria, and reflects daily communication needs in that context. An introductory section provides background information on the program's objectives and its role in the Nigerian village context. Some useful phrases are introduced here. Subsequent sections…