Tests to discover the nature of the second language learner's language are discussed. Such tests are based on the assumptions that the development of the system of the foreign language in the learner follows certain regular patterns, and that the learner's grammar is essentially systematic at any stage of his learning. (RM)

A contrastive analysis should describe the different processes of conceptualization in the languages under consideration. Furthermore, a detailed semantic analysis of linguistic items should be undertaken to discover perceptual strategies which force the speaker to use these items. Research in psycholinguistics is valuable in these tasks. (DB)

This article describes a series of experiments concerning the relationship between cognitive processes and learning a second language. Similarities and differences between first language acquisition and second language learning by children and adults are discussed. (CFM)

Earlier version of this paper was read at the Second International Congress of Applied Linguistics, Cambridge University, Cambridge, England, in September 1969. (VM)

Language learning and language teaching are discussed in terms of H.E. Palmer's theory that language can be divided into primary matter (units learned by heart integrally) and secondary matter (units built up or derived by the pupil from primary matter). Excerpts from the "Nuffield German Teaching Materials" are used to illustrate how…