Through the process of manipulating language through speech play, young children learn the rules of their linguistic system. Metalinguistic awareness implies access to the rule system of language and the ability to distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable language usage. (JN)

Contrasts what is taught by child language theorists and the traditional speech communication educators and suggests a new curricula which will better prepare children as competent communicators. Outlines needs and methods of disseminating new information so that it will be incorporated into the language arts curricula. (JMF)

Once speech educators turn their attention to the "ideational" function of oral language--that portion pertaining to thinking--rather than the relational function, they will see that speech can and should be incorporated into every discipline. The psychologist Lev S. Vygotsky envisions the ways in which humans use speech to reorder their…

Based on the results of a research project and on the conviction that functional speech communication behaviors must be developed in children, this paper proposes several directions for the effective development of speech communication instruction in schools. The research project consisted of three phases: input, synthesis, and implementation. The…

This paper discusses language development in relation to social development, emphasizing the importance of the question-answer format in the development of communicative abilities. A 5-year-old girl's dysfunctional speech behavior is presented as an example of social interaction difficulties resulting from a failure in "social cognition." The…

This Minnesota Curriculum Center report recounts the development of teaching materials on the nature and uses of language for grades 7-12 and presents the first of five seventh-grade units. A description of the origins, purposes, and personnel of the Center is followed by brief discussions of (1) the Center's underlying assumption that a study of…

The 59 readings in this collection are grouped into eight chapters: (1) introduction, (2) language learning and linguistics, (3) listening and speaking, (4) literature and creative writing, (5) words and their use, (6) spelling and handwriting, (7) curriculum topics and resources, and (8) evaluation of language learnings. Final readings were…

This book presents chapters concerning various aspects of research in language arts and implications for language instruction. The works of individuals are mentioned throughout the book, and 1,168 references are included in a list of works cited in the text. The research topics covered involve language development, oral language, listening, the…

This volume on elementary language programs is divided into four related parts. Part 1 discusses the sources of any effective language program: an understanding of the child's need for language, a knowledge of child development, and an awareness of the continuity essential to growth in language. Part 2 treats the main areas of the language…

The compendium of articles in this journal issue deal with the diverse components of the language arts, communication, and critical thinking curricula. The titles and authors of the articles are as follows: (1) "What to Do until the Doctor Comes: Speech in the Language Arts Classroom" (John Fortier); (2) "Teaching and Thinking…