Suggestions for a set of ed-tech tools for the "low-tech" language teacher are presented. Items include scissors, knives, cutting board, square, compass, glues, and tapes. (LB)

Physical aspects of listening skills are described, including speech rate, syllable tone, word-word separation vs. joining, listening for "focus," word clues per message, and intonation. (LB)

Smith's approach to reading comprehension is used as the basis of an activity related to the Use of English Exam in Hong Kong. The eight-step activity is described and shown to combine sound reading theory with an academic, test-oriented syllabus. (3 references) (LB)

Ways for using computer-generated concordances in language teaching are suggested, specifically, a typology of exercise types. Kinds of information to be derived from a concordance (e.g., keyword-in-context type) are considered, followed by a discussion of the rationale and technical problems encountered. (10 references) (LB)

An interactive vocabulary learning technique is described that uses a "core meaning" approach to help solve some of the problems learners have with English homonyms. The technique was used successfully with a class of adult learners but can be adapted for younger and less proficient learners. (four references) (LB)

Self-instruction, more likely applied to adult learners, depended on the extent to which learners more or less consciously make decisions about aspects of the learning situation and control them. Issues of control are discussed and examples of relevant learning situations are offered, including group work and computer-assisted learning. (16…

Ways for language teachers to make effective use of a class library are suggested with focus on selection of suitable books, provision of sufficient reading time in class, and varieties of library activities for primary schools. The Hong Kong approach is cited. (LB)

PPRUE(H), which stands for Present, Prepare, Rehearse, Use, Exhibit, and (H)omework, a student-centered oral skills learning device with an optional writing component, is described. It is designed to be used at intervals throughout the school year in foreign language classrooms with oral skills components. (LB)

An approach to persuasive writing is presented for English-as-a-Second-Language classrooms. Activities include discussion to activate past experience, connecting experience to purpose, constructing the argument, extending the argument, supporting the argument, and examining and evaluating alternatives. (12 references) (LB)

Five activities help students learn a language while fostering cooperation and spirit among the students. They include same or different words, a vocabulary review called "Grab the Tail," a mental activity "triangle," a crossword puzzle-type grid, and chains of words called "From This to That." (LB)

It is argued that, although materials are an important form of support to language classroom activities, they also constitute a constraint that can undermine the value of those activities for the processes of learning. (three references) (LB)

The rewards and perils of making the transition from classroom language teacher to developer of English-as-a-Second-Language textbooks are discussed. Issues include national and international marketing as well as the production process. (LB)

Suggestions are presented on how to avoid "dead spots" in a language class, including how a routine activity can be altered to become part of a lesson and also a lengthy illustration of how a normal lesson can be upgraded to offer students a richer blend of instruction. (LB)

Four games are described that were developed to give students of English as a foreign language oral practice with articles and the prerequisite mass-count noun distinction. The games provide guided, concentrated practice in contexts naturally called for particle subcases of article use. With suitable vocabulary control, they are applicable for…

A new set of course descriptions has affected the teaching of writing as part of the Teaching of English as a Foreign Language in Indonesia. The focus of writing is now on the functions of written expression, the writing content and situation, and the domain of writing. (one reference) (LB)