Because idioms are omnipresent in the authentic language students are exposed to, to successfully comprehend and produce natural language, learners of a second or foreign language need to possess a good knowledge of idioms and competence in idiom use. This paper examines the approaches to teaching and learning idioms. A discussion of the…

In an effort to strengthen teacher training, advanced language learning, and general skill development, one university developed an upper division "internship" in German. German majors and nonmajors were attracted to the course for its emphasis on skills applicable in the job market. (MSE)

Explains FLEX, foreign language exploratory program, a self-contained presequence course which usually involves a multilanguage contrastive approach and which is given in the grade immediately before year in which students may enroll in first year of standard sequence of second language courses. (Author/BK)

Discusses implementation of a FLEX program called Beginning Foreign Language at Mooresville High School, including administrative scheduling, room assignments, budget, general and specific objectives of course, materials, testing, and grading. Concludes positive aspects outweigh unresolved problems. (BK)

Presents a brief history of the status of foreign language instruction from 1953 to 1984. Summarizes research on effects of foreign language study. Describes the foreign language education program at the University of Tennessee--Knoxville, providing an overview of the organization, curricular content, and methodology. Evaluates Knoxville's unique…

Describes development and implementation of Certificate in Translation sequence for second language students at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. (BK)

Describes some of the responsibilities and common problems, both at home and abroad, that a study abroad director is likely to encounter. (EKN)

Discusses teaching foreign language in kindergarten as a way to foster favorable attitudes for serious language study at a later date. Outlines some classroom guidelines and expectations based on experiences in two kindergarten FLES programs. (EKN)

Suggests foreign language teachers can use comparison of physical life in the relevant country with that in the United States as way to sharpen understanding of other cultures and encourage participation in foreign study programs. Uses Germany as an example. (Author/BK)

This book provides 101 ideas and strategies to empower overall marketing efforts: (1) "Put On Your Thinking Cap" (e.g., define the problem before marketing it, set reasonable goals, and create a niche); (2) "Secrets to Boost Your Marketing Power" (e.g., emphasize the benefits, check out the competition, and sell oneself in as…

Presents instructional unit as example of materials developed for use in FLEX programs. Purpose of unit is to introduce students to German and the culture of the people who speak it, with a global perspective. (BK)

The status of foreign language instruction is reviewed and guidelines are offered for taking action at all educational levels to improve foreign language instruction nationwide. Foreign language instruction has declined since the 1950's when the federal government first committed funds to improve programs and train teachers. National needs,…

Two articles address issues in the development of French and Spanish language programs in elementary schools: instructional materials and time and money factors. The information presented is drawn from experience in developing the Radford, Virginia FLES (Foreign Language in the Elementary School) program. The first article describes some aspects…

Describes Independent German Language School of Connecticut including founding of school, curriculum, staffing, help from German Language School Conference, and fundraising. Concludes increasing enrollment indicates Saturday school movement is filling gap in teaching German in U.S. and is necessary to promote an alternative method to further…

Describes an advanced English-as-a-second-language program that features debate as a means of preparing foreign college students to compete with English-speaking students. (FL)