This study investigates modality in textbooks designed for learners of English by exploring the frequency and distribution of modal verbs in two corpora--one of authentic native-speaker language and a pedagogical one used by francophone learners of English in Quebec--with a view to identifying areas where added support for learning may be…

An inventory of grammatical and lexical units expressing the notion of place in "Le Francais fondamental," Level One. Interrelationships are discussed from the point of view of vocabulary patterns and syntax. There are numerous tables and examples of interrelated verbs, adverbs, nouns, and prepositions. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

Discusses the Egyptian government's decision in 1994 to require the learning of a second language at the primary level in the public schools. The article focuses on Egypt's desire to have its citizens achieve an educational status that is competitive on a global level and delves into textbook content and pedagogical ideas that will shape the…

Presents an approach to developing a grammatical scope and sequence for elementary and intermediate foreign-language instruction that is different from the standard model, which bases the grammatical syllabus of a textbook on tradition, intuition, or both. The article argues that different descriptions of grammar are needed for each of the skills…

The distinction between passe compose and the imparfait is considered one of the most difficult points of French grammar to teach to native speakers of English. Traditional explanations of the two verb forms are criticized. An aspectual explanation (not usually given in beginning textbooks) is presented as a simpler alternative. (Author/LMO)

Aspects of French language instruction in nineteenth century Sweden are discussed, including official adoption of French in the curriculum, development of the discipline, the evolution of textbooks, textbook types and content, problems in researching the field, and teachers. (MSE)

Argues that the success of a language course is determined by the teaching method, rather than by instructional materials. Accordingly, suggests a variety of strategies for the notional functional exploitation of traditional texts, and outlines classroom activities apt to encourage communicative competence. (MES)

Reviews the history of the use of advertisements as instructional material, indicating that they appear almost exclusively in advanced level textbooks for adults and that they are seldom exploited according to clearly defined objectives. Discusses various modes of utilization and suggests criteria for the selection of such materials. (MES)

Texts available for French courses in the highest grades are listed according to topics, which include: position of women, today's youth, the language of advertising, French colonialism, holidays and tourism, modern city living, criminality, French politics. Hints for the teacher are included. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

This is a study of the instructional practices, programs, and teacher education in French language schools located in French-speaking communities in Ontario. The five chapters of the study deal with the following aspects of the question: (1) theoretical presuppositions for the teaching of French as a native language, including methodology,…

Argues that the increasing number of non-specialist students of French in British universities requires an investigation of the adequacy of "general purpose" syllabi, grammars, and methodologies. Suggests that the effective design of syllabi and methodologies for specific purposes students is enhanced through detailed analysis of a…

French became the foremost medium of communication in Europe in the 18th century. In Germany the most widely used French textbook was Johan Valentin Meidinger's "Practische Franzoesische Grammatik." This textbook was apparently a huge success from the pedagogical and the commerical points of view. With a few minor revisions, it would…

Focuses on how the foreign language instructors' understanding of the historical development of forms and systematic language patterns enhances classroom presentations by transforming lists of irregularities and exceptions into coherent groups of related elements. Discusses examples of structures traditionally presented in lists or tables and…

Examines the role of reading in the acquisition of French in context, and shows how, in the area of reading, the computer can be transformed into a highly pedagogical teaching/learning tool because of the text retrieval program TACT. (32 references) (Author/CK)

Presents listening comprehension strategies used by students learning French. Through interviews, students described their conscious use of strategies in different contexts. All evidenced a familiarity with metacognitive, cognitive, and socioaffective techniques. (50 references) (Author/CK)