Analysis of language research and observation of two language classes suggest that, when teachers devote efforts to promoting students' encounters with and use of natural language, students will have the opportunity not only to learn about language, but also to arrive at proficiency in its use. (CB)

Analyzes the self-report questions on language and ethnicity used in population censuses. Attempts to show the methodological consequences of specific question phrasings for the measurement of language maintenance and shift and of ethnic group maintenance and assimilation. Supports the analysis with examples from U.S. and Canadian censuses. (SED)

In the process of Arabization of Morocco, it is necessary to maintain French language instruciton, but as a necessary foreign language and not as a primary language. French remains an important part of Morocco's diverse cultural identity. (MSE)

Major background sociocultural factors in the revival of Hebrew as Israel's vernacular during the period 1890-1916 are examined. These include communicative, national-political, and religioeducational factors leading to an unprecedented community acceptance of an unfamiliar spoken language and its use by new generations of native speakers. (MSE)

The Indigenous Language Institute (ILI) collaborates with indigenous language communities to combat language decline. ILI facilitates community-based language programs, increases public awareness of language endangerment, and disseminates information on language preservation and successful language revitalization programs. In response to numerous…

This paper examines data from observations of language use in Taiwan (primarily Taipei) made over 12 years. The observations focused on the usage of several languages, including English, Taiwanese, Mandarin, Hakka, and Japanese. The paper introduces a distinction between the possessive power of language and the productive power of language. With…

A study of bilingual development in preschool children had two components: (1) a followup of a previous study in which the English and Spanish language development of children in a high-quality bilingual preschool remained stable over time, and (2) a replication of the study with a different cohort. The original study found that native…

The two-part paper examines the neurobiological processes of synapse overproduction, synapse elimination, and issues of language acquisition and attrition. The first part consists of diagrams and notes explaining some basic terms and concepts of neurobiology: cortex; white matter; neuron; synapse; synaptogenesis; and development and organization…

This paper develops a speaker-centered view of language as an alternative to the monolithic decontextualized abstractions favored by modern linguistics, and suggests the application of the speaker-centered view to indigenous language renewal. The paper contends that the modern notion of languages as homogeneous stable "things" that are…

This guidebook examines strategies, roles, and accountability measures necessary to embrace, share, and support the learning community in totality. The 16 guidelines offer strategies for each of five groups: learners, educators, schools/institutions, families, and communities. The guidelines include: incorporate cultural traditions, language,…

Examines five biliterate (reading/writing mastery in two languages) educational settings for their functional approaches to language instruction and their different teaching methods. Notes the implications of such examinations and comparisons regarding regular English instruction and teaching English to speakers of other languages. (RL)

Research Studies reveal that the development of native language proficiency and full bilingualism enhances rather than impedes the education and personal development of minority children. Teachers of language and all subjects should cooperate in promoting native language proficiency and encouraging its use at home. (PMJ)

The author summarizes some of the spoken language policies of the People's Republic of China and the Republic of China of Taiwan, including some statistics on dialect speakers in the population, methods for promoting Mandarin in the schools, and attitudes toward the maintenance of minority languages. (SJL)

The ethnic press has played a vital role in the assimilation and the social and geographic mobility of immigrant groups. Its coverage of and editorial positions on ethnic relations, "Americanization," news and events occurring in the country of origin, the issue of language retention, and labor and economic concerns have influenced this…

To promote bilingualism, the education authority of Gwynedd, in northwestern Wales, is seeking to increase the amount of compulsory Welsh instruction. Their gradualistic approach has angered both Welsh nationalists, who want fully Welsh schooling, and English-speaking parents who do not want additional school time spent on Welsh. (SJL)