This basic Mandinka course consists of a series of dialogues with drills, questions, and improvised situations based on the real life experiences of Peace Corps volunteers in the Gambia. The teaching method is structured around choral repetition, backward build-up for difficult sequences, individual repetition, precise explanations of vocabulary,…

An adequate description of the total reading process would have to deal with reading in at least three dimensions comprising three different sets of relationships. A model of the process might well take the form of three concentric spheres: an outer, sociolinguistic shell in which text and reader respectively could be related to a particular…

This Marathi reference grammar designed for adult students is based on the model of transformational grammar developed by Zellig Harris, and may be of interest to linguists as well. The basic grammatical facts of Marathi are set forth in eleven chapters: (1) the Marathi sound system, (2) the Devenagari script, (3) nouns, pronouns, and adjectives,…

Increasing attention is being paid to the teaching of languages to adults. Communications improvements, tourism, immigration and international commerce are all contributing factors. Emerging third-world states often require a European language for internal and outside communication. Close contact among European nations demands knowledge of a…

This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of conversation classes for learning a foreign language, and outlines three basic prerequisites for a successful conversation class: a small, homogeneous group, actual facts and ideas available for discussion, and a basic working vocabulary. (CLK)

A report is made of an experimental German program designed to assess the effects of individualized instruction on four stated areas in a continuous program curriculum. (Author/RM)

Encourages the use of personalized questions in second-year foreign language courses. The students' interest will thus be maintained since they will be able to relate the language to their own knowledge and experiences. This will aid in vocabulary development, increase cultural awareness, and prepare the way for readings. (TL)

An exploratory language program offered in Stratford, Connecticut, is described. The course introduces all seventh grade students to the nature of language in general and to as many specific languages as possible, preparatory to beginning the formal study of a foreign language in eighth grade. (Author/RM)

Introduces an activity that simultaneously teaches oral expression and auditory comprehension. Groups in a class listen to an audio text that gives only incomplete information. The gaps are filled in by the group. Students are given worksheets. Presenting topics and work materials provides an integration of aural and oral skills. (IFS/WGA)

Reviews research findings as they relate to the acquisition of reading skills (in the first and second language) by majority-group school children participating in early immersion programs. (Author)

This paper reports on the development of the article system in an adult's interlanguage over a one-year period. It compares the results of a conventional order-of-acquisition analysis with a paradigm model based on Bickerton (1975). (Author/CFM)

Examines the Monitor Model of adult second language acquisition, and presents an alternate model that avoids difficulties inherent in the Monitor Model and that corresponds to contemporary language development theory. (Author/AM)

Reports on recent work in the areas of bilingual-bicultural education, multicultural education, retention of language and culture, and ethnic studies, noting how Canadian and United States educators integrate second language learning within those more general educational programs. (RL)

Examines four ways in which English as a Second Language (ESL) programs can be organized (segregation, immersion, limited ESL assistance, and bilingual) to provide the most effective language learning and orientation opportunities for ESL students. Urges teachers to match the program to the student whenever possible.