Like all learning situations, second language classrooms contain unique sets of learners, available materials, variable physical structures, and individual teachers. All of these factors receive further definition from the total school and community surroundings, as well as changes in clientele, curricular models favored at one time or another,…

Discusses the lack of emphasis on writing skills in elementary and intermediate language classes, the purpose and process of writing, and general recommendations for the incorporation of writing into the language curriculum. Contains specific examples of writing tasks, including the composition of telegrams, recipes, postcards, directions, and…

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)

This framework provides guidelines for use in planning, implementing, and evaluating foreign language instruction. The emphasis is on the following topics: (1) goals, benefits, and rationale of foreign language study; (2) the need for foreign language learning as a catalyst for human interaction in a multicultural society; (3) organizational…

Discusses the dichotomy between foreign language and literature instruction, arguing that the objectives of the language curriculum are at odds with those of the literature curriculum; many students are not proficient enough to cope with many of the belles lettres texts without additional linguistic support; and students deserve linguistic support…

The problem of articulation is examined, including attempts that have been made to resolve it and new proposals for its resolution. In order for the discussion to be meaningful, several relevant terms are defined: articulation, horizontal articulation, vertical articulation, inter-/multidisciplinary articulation, level, learner outcomes, and…

This guide attempts to help local planners develop and implement curricula which will provide each student in Connecticut with equal opportunity for a suitable program in foreign language instruction. With a focus on K-12 programs, the guide provides an overview of current philosophies, objectives, methods, and materials in the foreign language…

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)

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…

The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of educational and linguistic criteria that can be used in selecting, structuring, and presenting the content of foreign language instruction. Some emphasis is laid on application of criteria to Finnish public school curricula. Educational aspects of the discussion include curriculum, individual…

Supports the idea that second language teachers should "teach the test," provided that such tests meet the criteria of authentic assessment. Authentic assessment focuses on constructivist learning and communicative tasks; the integration of teaching, learning, and assessment; quality and coverage of content; and quality and fairness of standards.…

A survey is presented of modern language teaching in Great Britain since the establishment of their Modern Language Association in 1893, with particular emphasis on developments during the past 20 years. The following topics are addressed: the influence of linguistic research on methodology, the situation in higher education and the schools,…

Some of the possibilities for taking language learning and instruction into the larger classroom of the school, the community, and the world are considered. Programs conducted within the school or college campus but outside of the usual classroom include intensive language courses and interdisciplinary courses. A step farther from the traditional…

This publication presents the foreign language profession's consensus on selected topics and is designed to address areas of interest to instructional leaders and practitioners who are concerned with developing and maintaining effective second language programs. The topics are grouped into four sections: "Preparing for the…

This report includes the following addresses to the conference: (1) "Some Socio-linguistic Considerations in the Teaching of Foreign Languages", (2) "The Case of Afro-Portuguese Literature", (3) "Foreign Language Success Stories--Hackensack Has It!", (4) "On Apes, Poetry, and Language Teaching", (5) "A Sociolinguistic Aspect of Japanese Americans…