The field of English as a second language has gone through a number of changes in the last decades and has seen extreme adjustments throughout the methods of teaching and curriculum planning. This article finds the relevance of the old methods to the new methods. After providing the background it becomes apparent that almost all the older methods…

The author traces the development of speech act theory from Wittgenstein and Austin through Searle to Grice and shows how their work led to the notional functional approach to language teaching, which is based on the learner and his/her communicative needs. (CFM)

A discussion of second-language learning looks at the role of functional French in the acquisition of French as a second or foreign language. The choice and implementation of a Vygotskian approach using the study of electricity is described. (MSE)

Discusses the development of a notional functional syllabus for university second language classes. (EKN)

Presents use of dialogs as way of implementing functional/notional approach in second language instruction. Steps in methodology include presentation and discussion, oral practice, questions and answers, examination of structure, transfer to oral or written activity, and summary of lesson's purpose. (BK)

Describes a project whose objectives are to bridge the gap between second language instruction and computer-assisted instruction, explore multimedia combinations, and stress productive language in language learning. (MSE)

Discusses one approach to teaching French grammar in a university second year communicative-oriented course. (EKN)

This article addresses program design for foreign-language teaching. It examines the complexities of specifying the outcomes and selecting and sequencing the content, outlines the principal program types in existence today, and offers a general proposal for future programs. (MT)

The evolution of the idea of "civilization" applied to language teaching is viewed as tied to different conceptions of language underlying the last 50 years' instruction. Three questions are addressed: What are the traits of each? How do language and civilization respond to these notions? Where does this concept stand today? (MSE)

The notional-functional or communicative approach to foreign language teaching as practiced in East Germany is described. The purpose of communicative foreign language teaching is to prepare the learner to communicate in real-life situations. Classroom and real-life situations differ in several respects, most notably in communicative intention.…

Classroom simulation of a hotel is proposed as a motivating method for functional language learning. Related activities and exercises are outlined. (MSE)

The relationship between syllabus content and language teaching methodology is critically examined, and it is argued that many proposals that purport to relate to syllabus design are relevant to methodology only and are actually unrealizable in terms of syllabus and content. (Author/CB)

The role of the syllabus in second language teaching is described, distinguishing six major types of syllabi and how they might be implemented in various teaching situations. The foreign language teaching syllabus involves both the integration of subject matter (what to talk about) and linguistic matter (how to talk about it). Choices of syllabi…

Describes an attempt to design a first-year university French course along lines laid down by researchers associated with the Council of Europe and proponents of the communicative approach. Aspects discussed include approach and objectives, public, materials, activities, and evaluation. (Author/AMH)

The Integrated Language Skills course offered by the University of Hong Kong is offered to students who have had exposure to English in the classroom but who need additional work to develop skills in using that language. The course aims at providing opportunities for students to familiarize themselves with university activities which are then…