The longitudinal pilot study described here shows that immigrant children, trained prior to school entry and untrained, have great difficulties in language, though the groups are better able to cope. Results suggest some support for the assumption about the importance of the first language in the acquisition of the second. (Author/HP)

Discussed the individualization of vocabulary teaching in the ESL (English as a second language) classroom: (1) indirectly, through extensive reading, and (2) directly, through suitable vocabulary exercises. An experiment involving word frequencies is described that assessed the probable effectiveness of an indirect approach.

Recommends the use of recorded passages in the source language, English, for translation into the target language, Spanish. Oral comments about linguistic difficulties are in Spanish. (MLA)

The article compares the use of pattern drills to contextualized practice and suggests that although the second is a more personally meaningful approach, the pattern drills can provide a means through which the operations of many language features will be made more apparent to the learner. (NCR)

A description of the revised baccalaureate examination. The performance objectives for modern languages in oral and written expression, especially for French, comprehension and critical judgment of a text are discussed. Results of the inter-ministerial study and sample sections from examinations are given. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

A technique is outlined which simultaneously checks students' aural and oral control of sounds and prosodies. Intended for intermediate and advanced students, the test consists of a number of minimal pairs which are read by different people while the others listen and note which of the alternatives they hear. (SW)

Quotes passages from the publication "Mock Examination," showing test samples from sections of the new People's University Certificate Examination in English. The sections are on listening comprehension, oral production, reading comprehension, letter writing, structures, and vocabulary, which show differences from the traditional examination.…

Role-playing develops communicative competence on the pupil-to-pupil level. This activity deserves more study, particularly in regard to demands on the teacher, preparation and performance, correcting the learners' efforts, and certain psychological aspects. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Research has disclosed several misconceptions regarding language goals and related messages, the relationship between second language acquisition and cultural identification, and what "linguistic ability" is, or who the "average" language learner is. This article discusses these misconceptions and provides examples of a strategy for "understanding…

Problems in the educational system involving poor verbal and mathematics skills of students are discussed. The "back to basics" movement is advocated. The Russian instructional program at the University of Virginia is described. (SW)

The Multi-National Corporate Studies Program at Upsala College integrates foreign language study with international business studies. The program, which culminates in domestic and foreign internships, is described. (SW)

Problems related to declining foreign language enrollments at universities are cited. Suggestions are made for making foreign language classes relevant to student needs and for increasing enrollment. Types of courses needed at the high school and junior college level are outlined. Language requirements at the college level are advocated. (SW)

It is recommended that undergraduate second language teaching include individualized instruction, cultural education, testing for mastery, and emphasis on communicative competence. Textbook selection is also discussed. (SW)

A description of a functional French program for the training of tourism personnel in Greece. The topics discussed are: the public and their needs, and analysis of oral communication, pedagogical techniques and activities, including numerous examples of comprehension and speaking exercises. A short bibliography is included. (Text is in French.)…

Generalizations were formulated about the appropriate use of "excuse me" and "I'm sorry" and were used to explain the inappropriate use of these expressions by nonnative speakers. The use of these expressions in English as a second language texts is reviewed and suggestions for teaching are offered. (SW)