A theoretical basis for a first-/second-language link is presented along with an explanation of why current global theories of language are incomplete. Implications for foreign language (FL) methodology and instruction for students with FL learning problems are addressed. (123 references) (LB)

Presents findings of a collaborative study that examined a teacher's implementation of portfolio instruction and assessment in a high school French class. Gives perspectives of the teacher and students involved, and discusses implications of these perspectives. (HB)

Suggestions are offered for improving the content of beginning English-as-a-Second-Language texts, which often reflect low expectations of students and limit both the rate and scope of language learning. Methods for engaging the learner and stimulating dialogue are discussed. (nine references) (LB)

Teachers' attitudes toward a second or foreign language may filter down to students and may aid or hinder student's acquisition of that language. Therefore, prospective teachers of English in Swaziland were studied to determine their attitudes toward English. The teachers evidenced positive attitudes toward English and English teaching…

An approach to increasing intermediate students' listening comprehension of conversational Spanish used video materials taped from real Spanish TV broadcasts. Careful breakdown into comprehensible units, combined with repetition and then student reproduction, improved listening skills in the class more than did conventional methods in control…

In a study of the oral performance of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) learners, the accuracy and developmental progress of young francophone 10 and 12 year olds was investigated. Results support the hypothesis that form-focused instruction and corrective feedback provided in the context of communicative interaction can contribute to short- and…

Presents a brief overview of research and theory associated with providing second-language learners with instruction in their primary language. Describes five general strategies for providing bilingual students with first-language support. Notes that the examples come from teachers who have a strong commitment to supporting the development of all…

Despite technological advances, the slide remains a feasible tool for the teaching of language and culture/civilization courses. It serves to stimulate discussion and break from the normal routine. A simple and inexpensive "how to" method for home slide production is described. (LET)

Analyzes the theoretical and experimental support for Carl Dodson's "Bilingual Method" for second-language learning. The three major tenants--the goal of balanced bilingualism, differentiation between L1 and L2, and systematic provision for fluctuation between medium- and message-oriented communication--are reviewed and the findings of allied…

A discussion of the Total Physical Response method of second language instruction places the concept within the context of other unconventional language learning methods, reviews the rationale behind the approach, and outlines the classroom procedures used. A sampling of useful commands for classroom use is included. (19 references) (MSE)

Explains the rationale for the use of Spanish music in Spanish language classes, and describes students' reactions, how the music is used to help the listening/writing experience, and how recorded commercials in Spanish aid in learning language patterns. (GLR)

This article summarizes the results of a survey titled "Theater as a Tool for Language Teaching," which was conducted at 309 American and Canadian universities and colleges. The results describe whether, in what form, and with what experience theater had been used as a tool in foreign language learning. (AB)

Investigates the different ways in which a multilingual senior primary mathematics teacher uses code-switching when teaching mathematics to second-language learners who share the first language of the instructor. Contains 20 references. (ASK)

A language education professional examines the ways in which constructivism has been applied in the science classroom, and examines several well-known approaches to language teaching that contain elements of constructivism, including the direct method, Total Physical Response, and the Silent Way. Specific ways in which constructivist principles…

Roger Bowers talks to Numa Markee, Director of the Language Learning Laboratory at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, about people, computers, and language teaching. (Author/VWL)