In connection with two French grammatical problems (des bons amis - de bons amis; quatre-vingts-deux ans - quatre-vingt-deux ans), there is a discussion of consideration of the efforts toward reform of French orthography and of the decree of 1901, still in effect in France, for the choice of teaching materials for basic courses in "French as a…

Examines validity of claims made for the Mannheim Rating (of teaching texts for German as a foreign language), as well as its criteria for judging textbooks. The nonexistence of a comprehensive grammar of contemporary German makes it difficult to discuss grammar; therefore, some ratings are seen as too harsh. (IFS/WGA)

Portion of a paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Association of Teachers of German, Los Angeles, California, November 1970. (WB)

Discusses texts in the audiovisual field, giving controversial viewpoints in methodology and pedagogy: late introduction of writing, teaching grammar, the use of pictures, significance of memorizing, etc. Second part offers for discussion a catalog of criteria which may offer assistance in the selection of suitable audiovisual courses. (Text is in…

Because of the tentative nature of linguistic theories, the lack of proof that linguistics is an efficacious approach to language study, and the prescriptive nature of many of the books themselves, a textbook series based on linguistics is not recommended for use in the classroom. True linguists suggest theories about the structure of language and…

Intended as an aid in the development of grade 13 Spanish programs, this curriculum guide reviews fundamental instructional objectives of the course and provides a suggested book list. Included in the list are works on: (1) literature anthologies, (2) drama, (3) short stories, (4) novels, and (5) reference materials--dictionaries, grammars,…

Intended as an aid in the development of grade 13 German programs, this curriculum guide reviews fundamental instructional objectives of the course and provides a suggested book list. Included in the list are works on: (1) collections of short stories and poetry, (2) Horspiele, (3) plays, (4) novels, and (5) reference materials--dictionaries,…

This paper suggests that closer cooperation between teachers and researchers toward a simplification of linguistic terminology and language instruction objectives could result in more effective classroom presentation. Noted as a common error is the primacy given to writing as a vehicle for literature, and the minor attention given to speaking…

Criticism of the apparent academic disregard of Old French at the undergraduate level includes suggestions on ways to expand the curriculum. Discussion of philology, historical grammar, student preparation, course requirements, and the history of language is developed. Benefits of medieval study relate to: (1) preparation for graduate study, (2)…

Seeking to determine the necessary elements of a grammar for undergraduate students with a strong interest in Old French, the author discusses: (1) sounds, (2) forms, (3) syntax, and (4) poetics. It is felt that the treatment accorded phonology should be different from the traditional approach used in graduate level grammars, since the course is…

The growing emphasis on reading in the foreign language classroom is examined from the standpoint of learning theory, learning strategies, and classroom practice. The reading process in the native language, the origin and application of new learning strategies in foreign language reading, and modifications and revisions in teaching practices are…