A research colloquium entitled "Alternative programs for teaching French as a second language in the schools of the Carleton and Ottawa School Boards" was held by the Ontario Ministry of Education in April 1976. The purpose, background, and program of the colloquium are described. (RM)

Experimental language programs in Ottawa and Carleton schools investigating alternatives for teaching French as a second language were the subject of a research colloquium in April 1976. Comments on the programs are given by a panel of school board officials and coordinators of second language departments. (RM)

Findings and conclusions of three studies are reported: (1) comparison of two variations of a French core program, (2) an enrichment program attempting to change attitudes, and (3) a comparison between an immersion program and an intensive program. Three guest analysts comment and criticize. (Author/RM)

An overview and synthesis is given of a number of studies concerned with different aspects of a major research project related to French programs in Carleton and Ottawa schools. Comments and criticisms are made by three guest analysts. (RM)

Attempts to show that the linguistic aspects of structural exercises are not compatible with the linguistic theories underlying the exercises; and traces the history of structural exercises. (Text is in French.) (AM)

This project was launched as a medium of instruction throughout the six-year primary course, predicted on the hypotheses that the child benefits culturally, socially, linguistically and cognitively through native language instruction, and that his command of English will be improved if it is taught as a separate subject by a specially trained…

The decline in foreign language study is described, and suggestions are made for change and revitalization of foreign language departments. (RM)

Offers suggestions toward making the conversational language course more valuable, with particular reference to Spanish. (AM)

Discusses the role of today's language teacher, as "humane model," learning model, and "quality control." (AM)

Criticizes the interpretations of the National Foundation for Educational Research report on French instruction in Britain's elementary schools; and discusses reasons why the report is not a basis for planning foreign language teaching at the primary level. (AM)

Proposes the "warm-up" exercise, providing sentence patterns and basic vocabulary, for the purpose of stimulating oral communication in the adult foreign language classroom. (AM)

Offers suggestions for shaping an institutional curriculum or program of international studies. They include: (1) comments on strategies for building an international studies program and (2) suggestions on how to work a foreign language department into an existing international studies curriculum. (CHK)

Some ways to improve language education and second language competence in an international society and to promote foreign language study are suggested: Realistic achievement goals; efficient and flexible instruction; instruction in pedagogical methods; interdepartmental cooperation; cooperation with bilingual education programs; promoting study…

Language departments can become less insular and attract more students by seeking unity within the department and with other language and literature departments. Admissions offices may provide information on students to help structure courses. Departmental personnel and program reviews can unify faculty. (CHK)

A point system was introduced in two advanced courses in Spanish in order to provide more individualized instruction. Students who were weak in written or spoken Spanish at the beginning of the semester could compensate by doing extra work; more advanced students could contract to do more sophisticated projects. (Author/RM)