Traces the history of the study of French in West Germany's educational system, and argues that French, and not English, should be the principal second language taught there. (AM)

A model for second language teachers includes the definition of basic content for all students, diagnosis, and a series of reinforcement and enrichment activities. Variation of the basic model are applied to three levels of instruction. (Author/SW)

This article describes the Washington International School, its history, curriculum, support services, and the International Baccalaureate program which is followed in the secondary level. The lower school is bilingual in its methodology. Students pursue their studies both in English and in their other "working language." In the secondary school,…

Examines the second language learning situation in the Federal Republic of Germany and makes recommendations for its improvement. (AM)

The Committee for General and Technical Education of the Council of Europe commissioned a comparative study of modern language teaching in European primary and secondary schools, the results of which are presented here. School systems and plans of primary and secondary education in the 21 member states of the CCC are reviewed, along with the…

An overview is provided of modern language instruction in British schools and the teaching of less able learners. French is taught most frequently, followed by German. The question of academic standards, demand from employers for speakers of foreign languages, views of university teachers, and the training of language teachers are discussed. (SW)

Discusses the use of the York Group Graded Tests in French programs in English Comprehensive, Middle, and Secondary Schools. Commercial materials that can be used with the tests are indicated. (AM)

Argues in favor of teaching writing in the FL class. The following specifics are discussed: 1) When should writing begin? 2) When should written work occur in a largely oral lesson? 3) How is writing introduced? 4) Which written exercises are worth doing? 5) When can creative writing begin? 6) Writing as a response to reality. (KM)

The relationship of career education concepts to the foreign language curriculum is discussed. Efforts of the Maryland State Department of Education in fostering career education are reported. (RM)

Discusses the role of assessment in determining whether the investment in an early start in a foreign language has been worthwhile, suggesting that it is important for reasons, such as feedback to parents and the public, informing national policy development, and school self evaluation. Describes an independent evaluation of modern languages in…

This volume deals with issues in foreign language education that have come to the fore since the publication of the Report of the President's Commission on Foreign Language and International Studies. It contains the following articles: "Action or Inaction: An Editorial Opinion," by June Phillips; (2) "ACTFL's 1980 Agenda: Intention…

Stresses the need to synthesize techniques and methodologies, and to establish a central focus for beginning and intermediate programs of foreign language education in schools, higher education, and adult education programs. General conclusions and priorities are also offered. (EJS)

Describes the Multidimension Curriculum Model for developing a language curriculum and suggests a generic approach to selecting and sequencing learning objectives. Alberta Education used this model to design a new French-as-a-Second-Language program. The experience/communication, culture, language, and general language components at the beginning,…

A discussion of foreign language education, especially the lack of common goals, proliferation of options and unrealistic demands made by instructional materials. Reinstatement of a general language requirement after a reexamination of the discipline for its contribution to basic humanistic goals and development of an articulated curriculum are…

Skills and attitudes needed by language teachers, characteristics of a well-designed curriculum, and other aspects of teaching and learning in foreign language and second language programs are outlined. (SW)