This book explores the idea of "intercultural competence", which, despite its current popularity across various discourses, has remained a vague and oscillating concept. Interculture lacks a universal definition and "competence" is not only a cognitive construct but also includes psychological traits such as attitudes,…

Outlines the goals and content of the syllabus aimed at developing reading and listening comprehension in a beginners' course in German. Types of written and spoken texts; language register used; language structure patterns desired; lexis and vocabulary; and language function are discussed as they are included in the syllabus. (CHK)

The A-level French syllabus is criticized for its emphasis on translation and its failure to teach the language as a contemporary medium of communication. A curriculum guide is presented based on the layout, development and history of Paris and French society. (CHK)

Argues that revision of the sixth-form French curriculum should not exclude literature, but should include a French reading program with a variety of books that encourage the student to enjoy reading. Set authors and books for the A-level exams receive longer explanation and discussion. (CHK)

A survey was taken of school policies regarding the teaching of second languages to less able students. Results of a questionnaire sent to middle, upper, and 11-plus comprehensives in the Leeds/Bradford area are given. (RM)

Reports on a survey of mother tongue teaching and support for primary age pupils in England and Wales, undertaken as part of the Schools Council Mother Tongue Project. The analysis indicates that the majority of local education authorities now have a multilingual school population, and that bilingual pupils can communicate in a wide range of…

Semistructured interviews in 11 schools questioning headteachers about their concerns about modern language teaching policy provided the following: Quality of teaching crucial; continuance of one foreign language rather than another is attributed to ability, industry, and enthusiasm of teacher. Emphasizes that young entrants to the teaching…

Discusses the use of the York Group Graded Tests in French programs in English Comprehensive, Middle, and Secondary Schools. Commercial materials that can be used with the tests are indicated. (AM)

This article examines the range of language and area studies courses now offered in British universities and polytechnic institutes. Four types of language programs are reviewed: (1) the conventional "culture" model, (2) basic skills courses, (3) joint honors programs, and (4) an area studies model. Advantages of the area studies…

Proposes establishment of sixth-form commercial language courses. Level, course length, syllabus, examination, languages proposed (French and German), and teacher motivation are discussed. (CHK)

The use of the Language Background Questionnaire is analyzed, and the following criticisms are offered: (1) the varying nature and range of questions used, (2) the inclusion of indirect language background questions, and (3) previous methods of categorization of individuals into groups using language background scores. (SL)

School subjects do not hold an equally secure position in any educational system. Some subjects are required of all children, some are required of only some children, and some are not required at all. It is the task of this paper to show how people talk about subjects with respect to their place in the school curriculum. The social valuing of…