As English is widely accepted as a lingua franca in today's world, the importance of the language has been acknowledged globally in the present case. To rank the countries in terms of their English language proficiency, the EF Proficiency Index is prepared each year. In this study, five countries having the highest scores according to the Index…

The phrasing of task instructions can facilitate or hinder the learning process. In this study, three groups of participants (N = 526) performed a foreign vocabulary memorization task, with modified instructions for each group. The instructions were either learning oriented, encouraging participants to improve their abilities; outcome oriented,…

It is argued that three misconceptions about language learning have limited the utility of performance objectives in individualized second language instruction. These misconceptions--confusion between competence and performance, inadequate identification of linguistic elements, and assumption that linguistic elements correspond to learning…

Addresses the need for a more balanced approach in teaching observable culture (music, letters, and arts) and nonobservable culture (belief, behavior, and values) associated with the second language learning process by looking at the celebration of the Chinese New Year. Topics discussed include the Chinese Zodiac, household preparations and social…

This guide, prepared by the K-12 Foreign Language Committee in the School District of Philadelphia, formulates a series of behavioral objectives in the basic skills of second language learning. They include listening, speaking, reading, and writing as well as cultural education. The study specifies desired student learning behavior, describes the…

Overall and specific tasks involved in learning a foreign language and the factors that promote or retard learning are considered. To apply theories of learning and teaching, behavioral objectives for the learner must be considered. A macro-level learning theory is useful in conceptualizing reasons for student success and failure and in…

As a reissue of a popular book written in the 1920's on the principles of language study, this work is included in a series of publications devoted to language and language learning. The methodology prescribed centers upon nine fundamental principles: (1) initial preparation, (2) habit forming, (3) accuracy, (4) gradation, (5) proportion, (6)…

This manual is intended to serve as a step-by-step guide to writing criterion-referenced tests. It includes directions on constructing and scoring various types of test items to measure each level of cognitive function. The manual gives a method for writing, analyzing and rewriting instructional objectives; preparing a content outline; matching…