This paper describes the various barriers to comprehension that learners may encounter when viewing feature films in a second language. Two clusters of interfacing factors that may contribute to comprehension hot spots emerged from a quantitative analysis of problems noted in student logbooks. One cluster had a strong acoustic basis, whereas the…

Presents strategies for exploring the cultural content of feature foreign films in the language or culture and civilization classroom. Examples are taken from Francois Truffaut's "L'Argent de poche" and from Agnes Varga's "L'Une Chante, L'autre pas." (AM)

This article discusses three types of films and their use in the second language classroom. The description film is objective and static, and elicits adjectives and adverbs. This kind of film should be presented three times, each time followed by a different set of learning exercises. The culture film - characterized by descriptions, scenes from…

This article consists of an annotated bibliography of films chosen according to two criteria: the films respect basic principles of film art, and they touch in some way on a foreign language or culture and respect that language and culture. The filmography is designed to be used by foreign language teachers at all levels, and includes French,…

Films are becoming recognized as an important medium of foreign language instruction. Although there is a lack of instructional films in German, an abundance of excellent feature films is available through the German Embassy and various consulates. Well-edited scenarios are needed, however, in order to make using these films an effective teaching…

Outlines the rationale for a multimedia application of the novel "Mathilde Mohring" and describes the structure of a multimedia program and the functions of its individual components, which includes a segment on the different editions of the novel, digitized motion video sequences and stills, and supplemental multimedia materials such as…

The needs and challenges of intermediate-level language courses and the beneficial effects of authentic language experiences are considered, and five essays are presented which explore revitalization of the Classics and ways of introducing authentic language via film, theater, music, and student exchanges. "New contents" in second…

Films can contribute a great degree of authenticity to the foreign language classroom. The University of Oregon has found very enthusiastic reactions to the BBC Spanish language program "Zarabanda" among both students and instructors. "Zarabanda" consists of 25 episodes, each approximately 30 minutes long, available in video…

Films used in second language teaching include pedagogical films, which consist of filmed lessons designed to teach grammar and pronunciation, culture and industry shorts often made as a mild form of cultural propaganda, illustrated literature, and foreign language feature films. The latter are useful since they reflect the culture, history,…

A foreign language and culture program is advocated in place of the traditional language and literature program in today's schools. The potential importance of television and films in presenting cultural context is stressed, but the poor caliber of existing foreign language television programs in the United States (with a few notable exceptions)…

A compilation of 90 abstracts describes research and experimental teaching using television and film methods in foreign language instruction. The studies cover (1) a comparison of televised instruction with face-to-face presentation, (2) a comparison of filmed or kinescoped courses with direct instruction, (3) other uses of television and film…

This annotated catalogue of 16 mm educational films in Spanish covers a broad spectrum of topics. The extensive coverage accorded business management, child development, dental hygiene, education, family planning, health, industrial safety, labor, metalwork, sanitation, self-help, and teaching suggests the general type of film listed. Films are…

This collection resulting from a workshop on language teaching methodology contains the following papers: (1) "Current Views and Principles on Unlocking the FL Treasure Chest," by R. Lado; (2) "Effective Ways of Teaching First-Year French," by J.G. Nicholas; (3) "Teaching Conversation and Comprehension Skills in Elementary…

St. Bonaventure University holds a Language Day each spring, hosting some 3,900 area junior high and high school students. The buildings and facilities of the university campus are used, and activities include language competitions (exhibits, interpretative readings, language productions, audio-visual presentations and essays); a fiesta; foreign…

This paper attempts to make a case for increased use of available technology, especially those aspects commonly designated as educational media, in the foreign language classroom. Several arguments are given to support this position. (1) Research has shown that sight is the dominant sense for most people; therefore, varied and integrated visual…