Learning the words of a language is crucial to successful language learning. The study reported in this article aimed to investigate the potential for simple images to be used in foreign language vocabulary learning. English words presented in either first language form or simple pictorial form were used as cues for recall in classroom and…

Some basic tenets of the audiovisual approach to language instruction are challenged in this article which considers the ways in which "meaning" is given to sound sequences. It is argued here that (1) the meaning of a sound sequence does not derive solely or primarily from visual stimuli, (2) that different parts of speech derive meaning in…

Argues that mental images have functional properties similar to those of audiovisual media in that they can be intentionally and systematically used as the informational base for cognitive operations and as an aid to new learning. Experimental evidence is cited to support the claims. Nineteen references are cited. (Author/CHC)

The use of visuals in facilitating language learning is investigated by first looking at the effects of both visual and auditory perceptions on the ontogeny of language. This paper then samples the growing body of research and data on the ways in which visuals facilitate first language learning. The use of visuals in teaching/learning is examined…

Visual aids are considered in relation to their place in second language learning as a means of avoiding native language interference. The proper use and construction of visual aids is discussed according to principles of casuality, parallelism, and contrast. For related documents, see FL 000 823 and FL 000 467. (AF)

A description of exercises originally designed for foreign children in the French educational system. A detailed lesson on reading a picture is given, involving brainstorming, classification of information, a listing of details and a possible interpretation. The exercises might be adapted to French foreign language instruction. (Text is in…

An overview of the topics in this issue. The place of authentic documents; their use in promoting communicative competence; new uses of visuals, such as cartoons; visuals for evaluation purposes; their cultural value; and the development of video-cassettes are discussed. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

Nonverbal context is important in the language acquisition process. The present study compares different amounts and ordering of pictorial context with respect to their effect on learning word-referent relations in a second language. Twenty-five monolingual English-speaking high school students were shown twenty Spanish sentences and pictures of…

Writing exercises used as a means of reinforcing language presented and practiced in the spoken medium should include clear cues for the student that can stimulate and guide the writing of connected sentences. Three principles are suggested as being fundamental to the planning and use of effective exercises: (1) focus throughout should be on the…

Recent findings from the fields of brain research and speech perception suggest that non-verbal approaches may be helpful in pronunciation learning. The left side of the brain uses sequential information, such as verbal descriptions. The right side works in a more simultaneous manner, specializing in spatial relations and pitch perception, among…