Describes the rationale and development process for basic German vocabulary lists and compares entries from Pfeffer's Grundstufe, based on a corpus of spoken language, and Baldegger's Kontaktschwelle, a criterion-referenced vocabulary based on communicative needs of certain groups. Examples are given. (LMO)

Investigates the relationship between traditional and simplified characters of Chinese to determine the systematic ways in which traditional forms are simplified. The one thousand most frequently used characters and their simplified forms, if any, are listed in order of frequency of use. (DJD)

A method for developing and expanding basic French vocabulary by using a basic word list and derivation techniques is examined, and research on this approach is presented. (MSE)

Describes a set of criteria for selection of core vocabulary, with examples given from English. Suggests applications for such a vocabulary in grading reading materials and analyzing stylistics. (LMO)

An approach to language textbooks evaluation based on objective criteria and relying on data easily obtained by means of computers, such as word frequency lists, is proposed. The importance of vocabulary acquisition in language learning is emphasized. Accordingly, word selection and rate of repetition are seen as central evaluation criteria. (MES)

The vocabulary used in textbooks and standardized tests for English as a second language (ESL) is examined to determine how much variation exists. Word lists were compared for six difficulty levels in five frequently-used ESL textbook series (a total of 30 books). Three series of standardized proficiency/placement tests at different levels were…