The two major justifications for the traditional grammar curriculum in Dutch schools are: (1) its superiority to direct skill training in improving general language ability; and (2) its facilitation of teaching and learning foreign languages. An evaluative investigation, which included a literature review and logbook and textbook surveys, found no…

The educational advantages of open-book testing are explored, considering the changes in teaching method that are necessary for open-book testing to be successful. How open-book testing should work is illustrated through the example of tests for Spanish-language classes. (SLD)

Reasons for the failure of the classical empirical concept of measurement to evaluate educational programs are discussed. Action oriented evaluation is presented as an alternative, and is illustrated by a program to integrate foreign and native language curriculum development and student testing in Germany. (CP)

Long exposure to French, verbal ability in one's native tongue, general intelligence, and ability grouping were correlated with competence in French as a foreign language. The Swedish policy of mixing beginning French students who vary in ability and motivation was questioned. (CP)