Argues that literature should have a place in the language learning process. Since colloquial and literary styles overlap, it is felt that the two styles should not remain separated in actual life. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Vague language is widely used in both spoken and written English and it is also a very important language variable. The process of language use is active, during which speakers and hearers constantly have to make choices out of variables. This paper mainly studies the influences of vagueness in language on second language learning and attaches…

This digest examines the role metacognition can play in the teaching and learning of a second language. Understanding and controlling cognitive processes may be one of the most essential skills that classroom teachers can help second language learners develop. Rather than focus students' attention solely on learning the language, second language…

Outlines social psychological approach to language and ethnicity which allows understanding processes underlying group members' desires to create distinctive ethnolinguistic varieties. Evaluates Gardner's and Clement's social psychological models of second language acquisition in interethnic contexts; proposes specific social psychological…

Practical suggestions are given for teaching German students two difficult problems in French grammar, including structuring the material to be learned and acclimating the student to the foreign structure. (IFS/WGA)

Examines the central characteristics of interlanguages that distinguish them from all other natural language systems. It is proposed that, since permeability presupposes an interlanguage norm which is relatively stable, we are forced to gather enough data to establish the overall level of linguistic competence of the learner. (Author/POP)

Discusses the acquisition of foreign languages closely related to the learner's native language. The article argues that the transfer of elements from the native language plays a crucial role in the learning process. Results indicate that the native language hinders the learning process and that the lack of contrast blurs the linguistic structures…

Lack of knowledge of learning psychology is the underlying reason for failure in second language learning. The highest cognitive step is not given the required attention. The unanswered question is whether an institutional setting allows for this, or whether an immersion program should be a mandatory complement to any program. (MSE)

This paper discusses recent research on second-language learning and argues that "prior knowledge" does not necessarily constitute the basis of comprehension in second-language learning, that "comprehended input" does not have to be "learner-controlled," and that "input" and "intake" are not necessarily two fundamentally different phenomena.…

Proposes a theory of second-language (L2) learning that differs from accepted modes of theorizing in the second-language field. The theory is based on data gathered from the L2 classroom and strives to consider practical knowledge from other fields. (72 references) (JL)

Discusses theoretical and practical issues connected with implicit and explicit learning of languages. Explicit learning is knowledge expressed in the form of rules or definitions; implicit knowledge can be inferred to exist because of observed performance but cannot be clearly described. Hypothesizes why explicit learning can lead to implicit…

Discussion of interaction and performance feedback in the language learning process focuses on a study at the Open University of Hong Kong that explored tutor and student perspectives on the feedback in a distance language course. Results showed a need for more training for tutors and students to successfully use feedback. (Author/LRW)

Television melodrama, like grand opera, is constructed to formula. Character interactions are highly charged and plot dominates, initiating excitement, suspense, and raising questions around timeless and universal themes. Despite--or because of--their extreme nature, the soaps remain one of the longest-standing television genres, with the loyal…

This study examined the influence of first language (L1) orthographic experiences on decoding and semantic information retention of new words in a second language (L2). Hypotheses were that congruity in L1 and L2 orthographic experiences determines L2 decoding efficiency, which, in turn, affects semantic information encoding and retention.…

During a study designed to examine the processes of learning English as an additional language as manifest in the interactive behaviour of small groups of bilingual school children playing specially designed board games, several instances of "private speech" were captured. Private speech is commonly described as speech addressed to the self for…