Presents an approach to task-based second-language instruction that relies on class discussion as the departure point. After proposing that communication be viewed as the expression, interpretation, and negotiation of meaning, classroom practices are developed that reflect all three dimensions. Four discussion questions are transformed into…

Explores the research paradigms found useful by Dr. Poole in her research of classroom discourse as well as her insights into cross-cultural classroom interaction and the differences between first and second language classrooms. She discusses the need for close interactional study of English-as-a-Second- Language classrooms as well as non-English…

Questions the universal relevance of the communicative approach to language teaching in view of the cultural conflicts arising from the introduction of a predominantly Western language teaching approach to Far Eastern cultures. The article suggests that "mediating" can serve as a useful tool for filtering the material to make it…

Reviews research findings on second-language (L2) interaction from the perspective of syntactic development. The article argues that better understanding of the role of negotiated interaction in L2 syntactic development requires examining the specific grammatical structures in interaction guided by the criteria of relevance, availability,…

A synopsis of characteristics of effective English as a second language teachers (in the areas of knowledge, skills, and attitudes) is presented as well as a discussion of appropriate approaches (interaction analysis versus assumed teacher competencies) for evaluating teachers. (Author/CB)