Tape-recorded conversations provide a basis for analysis of fixed expressions, cliches, filled pauses and false starts in spontaneous speech. The meaning of these findings for second language learning and instruction is discussed. (CHK)

The study of foreign languages in the liberal arts curriculum is defended. Foreign languages reveal the rules characterizing cognitive human activities; they help us to understand both common bonds of humanity and varieties of human behavior. Language study should be central to humanities study. (CHK)

A consultancy grant was requested by the University of Nebraska at Omaha from the National Endowment for the Humanities because enrollments in advanced language courses were dwindling. It was suggested that language majors be expanded into area and interdisciplinary studies. Details of recommendations and grant application procedures are included.…

Criticizes the "Norm Book for English" for its priorities, finding that it slights the content aspect in favor of the language side. It is argued that there should be greater flexibility in the judging of Abitur (high School graduation) essays. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Fifth- and sixth-graders can learn, from the beginning, to express themselves in the foreign language. Language elements are adapted to their needs, approved by age-peers who are native speakers. School situations are listed in which the material can be used. A sample teaching sequence is given. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Shows, with examples of application, how pattern drills can be varied to fit various levels of difficulty. Variations in exercise technique according to the difficulty level can be realized quantitatively by changes in the stimulus and/or response, and qualitatively by variation of material (vocabulary and structures). (Text is in German.)…

Discusses contextless drills, pattern exercises in dialog form, exercises with indicated situation, micro-dialogs. The latter three are useful for impressing the material on the memory and for developing competence in dialog. A warning is given against limiting the drill period to pattern practice alone. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

In Part I, three aspects of cloze tests are examined: placement, measuring achievement, and evaluation. In Part II, it is shown how original texts and textbook texts are prepared for different forms of the cloze test. (Text is in German. (IFS/WGA)

This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of using the mother tongue in foreign language instruction, specifically in the explanation phase, in exercises and drills, in testing, and in the presentation of new grammar. (CLK)

This article discusses the place of the language teaching specialist in a college language program and outlines the duties of such a person. The qualifications required of a language teaching specialist are also described. (CLK)

A program at one elementary school served foreign students' needs by teaching language arts, as well as tutoring in other subjects, in their native language. Native English speakers studied a second language, and varying cultural backgrounds of teachers and students were emphasized and studied. (CHK)

This article compares first and second language acquisition and applies conclusions pertaining to first language acquisition to second language learning, specifically that a command of grammar is essential and this grammar is independent of that associated with the written language. (CLK)

In continuation courses for teachers, discussion of a picture course was found valuable, providing: nearness to actual teaching practice, expansion and solidifying of a topical vocabulary, possibility of guiding conversation, a favorable climate for conversation, and little financial (and technological) outlay. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Peer-mediation, an approach whereby students take the responsibility for learning from and teaching one another, is presented as an innovation in ESL classes. A rationale for this approach is presented based on actual classroom situations in which small-group, peer-mediated instruction is utilized. (Author/RM)

Interpreting as an exercise of language skill is presented as a necessity for communication, limited (in the instructional process) to everyday situations. Interpreting offers something different, and is therefore a source of motivation at the intermediate level. Basic characteristics of the skill, teaching hints, and types of exercises are…