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 a compromise between functionally based material and traditional grammatical approaches by suggesting the adoption of a more communicative approach to structurally based material. Using the present continuous tense as an example, the unnaturalness of traditional classroom dialog is shown; sample remedies are given. (PJM)

This discussion addresses the need for teaching vocabulary in the framework of second language instruction, aiming at communicative competence and using authentic documents as instructional material. The analysis is based on "Le Niveau-Seuil" (Threshold Level), and discusses the following elements of a functional methodology: (1) the fact that…

Explores various aspects of the functional-notional textbook or syllabus. This is a concept originating with the Council of Europe that involves the organization of a textbook or syllabus according to the notions or functions that a learner hopes to be able to express. (RM)

A guide to the development of Spanish-language curricula for Spanish-speaking secondary students is intended to help teachers and administrators design programs building on students' existing language strengths. The recommended instructional approach is functional-notional, and local districts are encouraged to use it to adapt their textbooks and…

An experiment in teaching French in Sweden was based on a version of a Council of Europe proposal for a core language curriculum consisting of basic needs for language functions, notions, topics, vocabulary, and grammar. The model targets a variety of learning and age levels, but the Swedish program concerned secondary level teaching of French as…

A functional-notational syllabus was developed for use in Papua New Guinea because the English language needs and terminal competence of students in that country are more easily identifiable in terms of functional-notional categories than of language structures. The syllabus for grades 7-10 is divided into units or topics of language uses, and…

Sports and athletics belong to all cultures; at the same time aspects of them are typical of U.S. culture. As a theme they can be used as a springboard for a "transcultural dialogue" in the language acquisition process. A review of literature shows that very little has been written about developing language skills and cultural understanding…

Two guides are presented to assist in organization of a thematic approach to instruction in French and Spanish that is helpful in integrating language and culture. Each booklet contains the following elements: (1) a general introduction to the factors that must be present in the teaching situation for real communication to take place, and to…

Discusses the problems for a head of department in organizing first foreign language classes. The merits of ability grouping are briefly analyzed. The mixed ability approach is proposed as most desirable, especially with the use of topic-based as opposed to traditional grammar-based language courses. (Author/LMO)

A three-year curriculum of "Compact Courses" which was introduced in a secondary school in England is described here. The objectives of each course are terminal; the courses have no fixed length or pattern. The method adopted is that best suited to the teacher in view of the terminal objective. During the first 2 years, students take…

Textbooks currently available for foreign language instruction are generally oriented toward instruction in grammar for its own sake. Until materials are developed that are specifically geared to a systematic development of communicative competence, textbooks must be adapted. This handbook is directed toward that need. It emphasizes the following…

Proposes a taxonomy for the many roles a second language learner must play in real-life interactions. Three types of roles are established and illustrated via dialogs: social, emotive, and maturational. Students practice these roles, and in doing so, acquire the grammatical structures of the target language. (Author/PJM)

The Alberta (Canada) curriculum for 7th, 8th, and 9th grade French immersion instruction is presented. An introductory section describes the rationale and objectives of the program and provides a brief bibliography. The next section charts the types of discourse on which the curriculum focuses within each language skill area (listening, speaking,…

The Alberta (Canada) curriculum for 10th, 11th, and 12th grade French immersion instruction is presented. An introductory section describes the rationale and objectives of the program and provides a brief bibliography. The next section charts the types of discourse on which the curriculum focuses within each language skill area (listening,…