Seeks to prove that the parameter setting model (PSM) of Chomsky's Universal Grammar theory contains an internal contradiction when it is seriously taken to model the internal state of language learners. (six references) (JL)

The ideal learning atmosphere in a Spanish-English Bilingual/Bicultural classroom provides for the learner two models with which to identify, a Spanish speaker and an English speaker, each of which reflects ethnic characteristics associated with the language. (Author)

The centrality of the notion of social identity to current work on language learning reflects a renewed theoretical and political concern for the social dimension of language learning. Discusses the ways in which current work in this area involves conflicting points of view or misses the opportunity to connect with other relevant work. (JL)

Offers comments on an earlier article on age and second language learning, and questions the authors' of that article's interpretation of the research they reviewed. The authors of the original article respond to these comments and questions. (Author/VWL)

Examines the concept of consciousness in second-language research. After defining theoretical assumptions and reviewing a number of controversies in the psycholinguistic and second-language literature, it is argued that the terms conscious and unconscious have acquired too much surplus meaning and should be abandoned in favor of clearly defined…

Paper supported in part by a Peace Corps contract to the Language Research Foundation, Cambridge, Massachusetts. (VM)

Describes nature of insulting and techniques used to insult and presents a variety of areas and values from which insults are drawn. Briefly compares insulting terms using animal names in 10 different languages. Suggest insulting behavior is an area which, if better understood, will permit teachers to develop effective materials and recognize…

Argues that the concept of "teaching method" is unlikely to disappear and explores the middle ground between a position that method is not useful in language teaching and one that recognizes some value for such a construct for the profession. (Author/VWL)

Item-writing considerations in creating instruments using Likert-type scales, according to Michael Busch, include semantics of labeling response choices and number of response categories. Jean Turner discusses problems regarding the use of Likert-scale questionnaires for L2 research, for instance the cultural background of language learners being…

Reviews research on native language (NL) listening, and discusses the importance of listening in second-language (L2) acquisition, factors that influence success or failure of comprehension of first-language or L2 messages, the role of listening in the L2 curriculum, posited models of NL and L2 listening comprehension, and proposed taxonomies of…

Examines five cognitive models for second-language acquisition (SLA) and assesses how each might account for the Pidginized interlanguage found in the early stages of second-language acquisition. (23 references) (JL)

Two individuals comment on an article that invited examination of the concept of culture in TESOL (Teaching English as a Second or Other Language). The author of the original author responds to these comments. (Author/VWL)

This brief article analyzes verbal protocols--oral records of thought provided by subjects when thinking aloud during or immediately after completing a task. (Author/VWL)