This study is a partial replication of a set of studies conducted to investigate the effects of unequal status on speech variation. It was found that, in some respects, first- and second-language variation may be quantitatively different. (52 references) (JL)

Describes a practical experiment in which students prepared video materials to present to each other, the aim being to develop student autonomy in learning, class participation, motivation, and accuracy. The student feedback confirmed the success of the experiment; the rationale for this success is presented. (14 references) (GLR)

Considers the functions of teaching guides, and suggests why their evaluation is a worthwhile activity. The evaluation process is examined, and a set of model criteria for a detailed evaluation are provided. (14 references) (JL)

Describes a project where children follow the natural progression of becoming literate in their native language (Spanish) before developing literacy in the language of the school. Demonstrates the manner in which social interaction is part of literacy acquisition at the early stages. (MG)

Examination of the first language (Japanese or Chinese) and second-language reading and writing abilities of adult English-as-a-Second-Language learners indicated that literacy skills could transfer across the first and second languages, although the pattern of transfer varied for the subjects. Reading ability appeared to transfer more easily than…

Discusses a number of areas of concern for the foreign language teaching profession for the 1990s. It is suggested that the foreign language teaching profession must consider the problems raised here to determine their validity and to address them as needed with the energy and resources that each requires. (JL)

Notes on current events and trends in French education are presented. Topics include public policy on financing of private schools; initiatives in educational television; education for global development; publications and events concerning elementary, secondary, and higher education; and new books and journal articles on education. (MSE)

This article presents the case study of a child who was classified as communication disabled but seemed to have suffered from language loss or arrested development of the primary language (Spanish) before attaining full competence in English. The child experienced a temporary delay of development in both languages but eventually mastered English.…

Outlines current directions that computer assisted language learning (CALL) is taking, highlighting CALL's social dimension and discussing Turkle's books, "Language Learning Through Social Computing" and "Life on the Screen." The paper explains that the current social context, which includes rich, user-friendly environments for sharing, discourse,…

Discusses the advantages to considering writing an integral part of learning English as a Second Language at all grade levels, offering a day-by-day lesson sequence on the topic of courage that affords ample opportunity for writing and for class discussion to share and evaluate the writing. Suggestions for each day's classwork are followed by a…

A study in two high school language programs investigated students' oral proficiency (OPI) interview ratings after a typical four-year sequence, degree to which teachers could accurately predict students' ratings, and relationship between classroom achievement and OP ratings. Results provide valuable information for states and school districts as…

Examination of existing research on language learning and cross-cultural competence and an analysis of the popular press in three Australian states suggests (1) the wider community believes language learning results in target culture understanding and (2) languages learned in a formal class setting do not necessarily lead to cross-cultural…

Discusses children's concept development and exploratory talk in the primary years of early French immersion (K-3). Data from a case study of a primary program is related to personal teaching experience and research in language and learning and developmental psychology. Suggests possible approaches to enhancing concept development and exploratory…

Examines the emerging form of text on the World Wide Web and how it is influencing reading, in particular reading by non-native readers of English. Focus is on the visual representation of text structure. (Author/VWL)

Surveys initial student perceptions of a university-level computer-assisted language learning (CALL) course. Over 100 Japanese first-year students were questioned about the influence of CALL in their language classroom and on language education in Japan in general. Their views are presented and analyzed in the context of teaching and learning…