This collection of 10 essays on the nature of second language learning focuses mainly on distinctions between the audiolingual and the cognitive-code theory of learning and also on the interrelationships between psychology, linguistics, and second language learning. A synthesis which cuts across divisions in methodology, caused by superficial…

Examines the effects of Chomsky's theories of linguistics and language acquisition on language teaching methodology, specifically on the use of the audio-lingual method. Current trends in methodology move in two basic directions: 1) towards relaxation of the tighter restrictions of the audio-lingual method, and 2) towards development of techniques…

The symposium, held in Wiesbaden, West Germany, November 11-17, 1973, examined the results of recent programs and research dealing with the teaching of modern languages to young children and formulated certain recommendations for submission to the Council for Cultural Cooperation of the Council of Europe. The following reports were presented: (1)…

The modern view suggests language be approached through speech. It is therefore customary that the first stages of language learning are spent on oral drills in order to make the sound system and the basic structures automatic habits. In countries where classes are big and the time spent on foreign language learning is limited, spending too long a…

This introductory course is based on the Yerwa (Maiduguri) dialect of Kanuri, a well-known dialect of the language spoken in Nigeria and Niger. The course, designed to be taught by native speakers of Kanuri, consists of 20 lessons, each of which contains a major dialogue on some aspect or facet of a Peace Corps volunteer's life in the…

This article explores the question of whether language teachers are capable of ascertaining student acquisition of grammatical rules when the lesson is taught orally. Oral fluency is seen as the foundation of the language process,and a distinction is made between productive and reproductive speech. Frequent use of examples illustrates linguistic…

Examines the expectations and effectiveness of second language (French) education in Canada. Recommends curriculum modifications and program redirection focusing on positive attitude formation and ear training to stimulate continued language study. (NEC)

In an attack on the current oral-aural approach to teaching foreign languages in the secondary school, the author laments the loss of intellectual involvement on the part of the student in the learning process. Resultant limitations in student preparation for advanced study in literature and linguistics are observed. A set of objectives is…

Negative influences on teaching practices and objectives in modern language programs, caused by certain final examination practices in Sweden, are pointed out and criticized in this paper. The needs of the Swedish student of languages are determined to be related to the use of language primarily as a means of everyday communication. The…

Articulation of materials, methods, and educational objectives of language programs in French, German, Spanish, and Latin focuses on achievement goals in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, writing, culture, and language analysis for levels 1 through 5. The programs emphasize the attainment of language fluency through the audiolingual…

STANDARDS ARE PROPOSED FOR STUDENT UNDERSTANDING IN THE SOCIOCULTURAL COMPONENTS OF A LEVEL II LANGUAGE COURSE, OR AFTER THE FIRST TWO YEARS OF A LANGUAGE IN HIGH SCHOOL. BRIEF STATEMENTS OF STANDARDS FOR LEVELS I, III, AND IV ARE PROVIDED AS BACKGROUND. IT IS ASSUMED THAT NO ENGLISH WILL BE USED IN CLASS, AND THAT CULTURAL INSIGHTS WILL BE TAUGHT…

THIS REPORT DISCUSSES IN DETAIL A MINIMAL 4-YEAR, INTERMEDIATE 6-YEAR, AND IDEAL 10-YEAR PROGRAM PROPOSED BY A 1959 CONFERENCE AS THE TYPES OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE EXPERIENCE THAT SHOULD BE AVAILABLE TO THE ACADEMICALLY TALENTED LEARNER. BECAUSE THE PREADOLESCENT CAN LEARN EVEN THE MOST UNFAMILIAR SOUNDS BY IMITATION AND PRACTICE, AN IDEAL PROGRAM…

Principles of the "St. Cloud" audiovisual language instruction methodology based on "Le Francais fondamental" are presented in this guide for teachers. The material concentrates on course content, methodology, and application--including criteria for selection and gradation of course content, a description of the audiovisual and written language…

This comprehensive booklet treats foreign language instruction development, current practices, and observable trends. Sections on the changing role of foreign language instruction and on methodology are emphasized. Social pressures, international events, and changing educational attitudes since the turn of the century are discussed. Methods used…

This teaching guide presents some of the rationale behind an audiolingual approach to prereading language instruction and some planning suggestions and teaching techniques appropriate to beginning classes at the secondary level. Major attention is given to techniques for mimicry-memorization, dialog practice, pattern drill, nonverbal cues, and…