This booklet, based on a nationwide study of elementary school foreign language programs, addresses the following topics: (1) why students should learn a foreign language; (2) information that may help persons select and initiate a specific type of program; and (3) a detailed description of three elementary school approaches used in the country…

The status of foreign language in the elementary school (FLES) is discussed in an attempt to dispell the myth that there are few successful FLES programs in the U.S. Results of an eight-state survey show that 18% of the responding elementary schools report that they do teach foreign language. Descriptions of eighteen innovative programs confirm…

The partial immersion program at Key Elementary School (Arlington, Virginia), where half the day is taught in English and half in Spanish, continued to be successful in its eighth year. Reasons for success include: dedication and in-depth understanding of immersion philosophy among principal, coordinator, teachers, and staff; innovations in both…