Describes preliminary results from research on language socialization practices of Black middle-class children and their mothers in Chicago (Illinois). Focus is on personal storytelling as a conduit through which values, beliefs, and identity are transmitted to middle-class Black children. (JB)

Examines the perception of four English vowels by adult native speakers of German. The role of foreign-language experience in the perception of second-language vowels was examined through labeling responses to members of synthetic continua in which vowel duration and spectrum were varied factorily. (42 references) (GLR)

Examines arguments for and against extensive English language teaching in non-Western cultures, particularly in Japan, including the ideologies of English in two Japanese discourses, "nihonjinron" and "kokusaika." It is concluded that instruction in English that is intended to promote social transformation should include both…

Response to an article on multiculturalism and the status of community languages in Australia, focusing on issues of language maintenance and shift emerging from the article and adding examples from other countries. Questions addressed include who is responsible for maintaining community languages, which are maintained, how this is done, and why,…

College second language programs offer more to students than knowledge of the language. Language study can challenge students intellectually and creatively and contribute to their academic and social development, even when language study is begun at this level. Value is found in the substance, process, and outcomes of language study. (Author/MSE)

Calls on the foreign language profession to identify a field of study described as a discipline with four subfields (language, literature, linguistics, and culture). Urges that language be taught not just as language but also as a structure reflecting the verbal and nonverbal expression of the culture, through curricular outreach programs to other…

Discusses the historical region of Istria, which is now divided between Italy, Slovenia, and for the largest part, Croatia, and where three national languages, Italian, Slovene, and Croatian function as standard varieties in the respective territories. Focuses on the role of Croatian in language planning and presents statistical data on language…

Examines four issues that have arisen as a result of the spread of English: (1) the use of English in connected communities; (2) the function of English in Outer Circle countries; (3) the growth of English-knowing bilinguals in Outer Circle countries; and (4) the pedagogical implications of English-knowing bilingualism. (Author/VWL)

Languages reflect and reinforce cultural values, giving insights into their speakers' world view and relationships to the natural environment. Indigenous languages help us to respect local knowledge and extend our sense of community to the larger world. However, despite bilingual education in schools, all Native American languages are endangered;…

Examines the role of language as a catalyst for change and as a potential barrier to growth in Europe, an area where migration is historically less extensive than in the United States. Issues considered include the emergence of the European Union and related policy changes, trends in personal mobility, language education practices and policies,…

Discussion of the English language needs of the Arab world looks at two general kinds of needs: societal and educational-cultural. Some major needs analysis studies conducted in the Arab world, particularly that of the Gulf region, are reviewed. The need for comprehensive research in this area, for the purpose of curriculum design, is emphasized.…

Describes frame play as a type of play in which children and teacher jointly plan the theme, roles, and actions and produce an extended imaginary play situation that can be repeated. Presents other types of play and discusses teachers' role in supporting theme development, resource organization, and environment transformation. Analyzes frame play…

Discusses the variety of language centers on college and university campuses, ranging from the rationale for the center to questions and objections about its existence on campus. Discusses relation of the center to the foreign language department, the parameters of the position of center director, the role of the less commonly taught languages,…

Provides an overview of the economic approach to the question of the value of English. Discusses reasons why this question is attracting increasing attention, and examines the labor market in Switzerland, presenting methodological aspects and providing fundamental statistical reports. Results indicate that for Switzerland as a whole, English…

Provides an overview of English language education in Cuba. Discusses the historical role of English in Cuba, the introduction of English for specific purposes, and the current status of English instruction. (Author/VWL)