An activity intended to foster authentic conversation in the foreign language classroom--a hypothetical situation involving a choice of people who are to survive--is reported. French, German, and Spanish versions of the material are provided. (RM)

A number of conversation exercises are described for use in second language teaching which are intended to promote communication in the foreign language by creating among the students a need to talk and a need to listen. (RM)

Associative speaking as a method of making oral communication the central activity in foreign language classes as early as the second semester is described. (Author/RM)

In order to ensure personal involvement in and eagerness for verbal communication, the German intermediate conversational course at Clemson University centers on love, marriage, and family life. Student proficiency in German improves, and the course generates enthusiasm as well as self-awareness and awareness of others. (Author/SW)

Reports on an experiment using video tape for foreign language instruction, in which the taping acted as a follow-up to other activities such as reading of interviews, viewing of slides and films and preparation of language and cultural exercises. The objectives and advantages of this approach are outlined, and excerpts of materials used are…

Discusses theories behind the shift in emphasis from drill to communication practice. Concludes that students' awareness of their learning process helps bridge this gap. Includes communication exercises promoting natural information exchange which motivate students to take responsibility for improving their communicative skills. (PMJ)

Recent developments in foreign language offerings in New York State are outlined. Exploratory programs, general language usage programs, minicourses, interdisciplinary programs, independent study programs, bilingual programs, programs beyond the classroom, and career education efforts are discussed. (RM)

Describes an experiment with an innovative foreign language teaching method whose focus is on increasing the students' fluency and interest by deemphasizing the role of the teacher as drill-master and stressing student communication on a one-to-one basis. (Author/CLK)

A description of a course which allowed the foreign language student to speak personally with other speakers of the language. The development of the course, its actual on-the-air material, the language development of the students enrolled in the course, and the critique of the course by the students are discussed. (Author/AMH)

A report on the introduction and use of short wave broadcasts in an intensive spoken French class. The kinds of materials used, class structure, the nature of assignments, student motivation, testing, cultural advantages, student reactions, and suggestions for further application are discussed. A list of useful references is included. (AMH)

Discusses strategies designed to cope with problems encountered at the college level that are caused by students' diversity in background and levels of competency. Alternatives to the lock-step method of instruction, with applicability at both the college and high school level, are described. (EJS)