Examines the effects of learning words grouped in semantic sets, using Japanese words paired with artificial words. A principal finding was that there was a main effect against learning semantically related words at the same time. The article concludes that presenting students with wordlists of new words in semantic clusters, rather than in…

Parent-based assessments of vocabulary, grammar, nonverbal ability, and use of language to refer to past and future were obtained for 8,386 twins at age 2. Of the children who had early language delay, 44.1% had persisting language difficulties at 3 years and 40.2% had persisting language difficulties at 4 years. (Contains references.) (CR)

A study investigated the acquisition of everyday vocabulary of 16 children (ages 8-14) with deafness in an auditory/oral program using specially designed computer-based vocabulary applications. On average, children learned 70 words for everyday objects from immediate use of the lessons and remembered nearly 39 after more than 4 weeks. (Contains…

Four students with moderate mental retardation were taught to read or define words on vocabulary lists of general education classes using embedded instruction. Results indicate that embedded instruction led to the acquisition and maintenance of the target skills. Paraprofessionals successfully implemented the embedded instruction in general…

Six mildly and moderately retarded children (ages 6-8) were instructed in the Piagetian constructs of unidimensional classification and/or seriation using the "Piacelleration" learning set technique. After one semester, subjects made significant gains on: classification and seriation tasks, the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, and the…

Four ideas for classroom instruction are presented, including an approach to teaching foreign nationals or immigrants, a lesson in clothing and its terminology, an explanation of the symbolism and language of the French Revolution, and a description of how to use radio programs about economics. (MSE)

Describes four activities for the French-as-a-Second-Language classroom, including: a lesson in the interpretation of graphs (Lescure); a unit on measurement, money systems, museums, and schools in France (Berteloot, Ploquin); oral and written exercises based on French history and culture (Ploquin, Store); and a vocabulary development activity…

Examines the postsecondary research base for content area reading strategies. Compares findings to earlier studies of secondary schools. Finds semantic mapping and graphic organizers were more effective for secondary than postsecondary students, although most secondary students were not given instructions for the strategies used. Calls for further…

Four language class activities are suggested, including an exercise designed to involve even the most recalcitrant students in oral communication, an artist's visit to the class to discuss his work, use of an authentic document to develop understanding of figurative language, and a reading comprehension and interpretation activity. (MSE)

Analysis of data from studies investigating the effectiveness of a parent report form for assessing children's early language development showed that the vocabulary checklist had substantial validity, and that it helped parents to provide a valuable overall evaluation of their children's language at 20 months. (Author/CB)

Relates the author's experiences using the Language Experience Approach (LEA) and computers with content area materials to teach middle school remedial reading students. Lists nine goals that can be reached by conjoining LEA and content area materials. (RS)

Outlined are strategies for dealing with the problem of students' lack of ability to verbalize multi-syllable vocabulary words in the sciences. A pronunciation examination, the development of corollary writing skills, vocabulary development, student journals, writing exercises, and microthemes are discussed. (RT)

Reviews developments in Business English using findings from articles, dissertations, reports, and teaching material and considers the constructs underlying much of the published teaching material. An interdisciplinary approach is called for to take account of language, interpersonal communication skills, business know-how, and cultural issues.…

Evaluated the effectiveness of using a hypertext/hypermedia environment for the teaching of second language Spanish vocabulary in a semantic mapping format among 48 high school students who had never studied Spanish. Results found no significant difference between semantic mapping and traditional word listing approaches to vocabulary development.…

This single-subject study compared the effectiveness of two intervention approaches, direct instruction and activity-based intervention, on acquisition and generalization of object names by six young children who were at risk or had developmental delays. Acquisition of object names was enhanced by use of highly structured didactic approaches to…