Concerns research in the use of cloze tests to measure a particular language skill when a standardized paper-and-pencil test is not an obviously appropriate validating instrument. The conversational cloze test proved to be superior to a written or prose cloze test in measuring the students' oral ability. Statistical tables are given. (Author/PJM)

The difference between written and spoken English are analyzed. It is suggested that teachers of English as a second language rely less on specialized techniques of reading aloud written English when teaching oral skills and more on providing opportunities for real communication practice. (CFM)

Suggests five techniques to be used by the teacher of English as a second language to initiate communication in the classroom: (1) the interview; (2) the mutual interview; (3) the class story; (4) the journal; and (5) role-playing and problem-solving. (CFM)

Conversation classes have three goals: (1) to introduce and practice elements of spoken language; (2) to bring passive knowledge of the language into active use; and (3) to create a situation in which the two other goals may be realized. The place, the material, and the topic are important in achieving these goals. (CFM)