Reviews four approaches to selecting language textbooks and outlines points to be considered before selecting. (CK)

Discusses contemporary theory on the comprehension process in first language reading research and psychology. Examines beliefs, materials, and classroom behaviors which have been under recent discussion and applies the theory of comprehension--that comprehension is the process of relating incoming or new information to information already stored…

Addresses the problem of the scarcity of instructional materials for teaching Italian and contemporary Italian culture to beginning college students. Looks at current practices and materials. Argues the need for preassessing cultural content of structural materials and suggests some criteria for devising supplementary cultural materials, along…

Describes and compares five basic German texts for high school students and includes the evaluative criteria used. (CK)

Suggests there is a need for a new teaching model which will enable second-language students to integrate the formal, cultural, and informational features of the language on which competency is based. This model should be based on the use of authentic texts which reflect the values of the foreign population. (SED)

Compares three major types of syllabi--structural, situational, and notional--to determine how the last differs from the others. For each, the author examines its focus, its basis for selecting and ordering materials, and its typical manner of presentation. Discusses in considerable detail macro- and microstrategies consistent with the notional…

A survey was made of 112 readers earmarked for students ranging from the beginning level in the secondary school to the intermediate level in college. The readers intended to be read by beginning and intermediate students are described, following a brief discussion of what reading involves. (Author/RM)

Examines the listening process and delineates some of the strategies used by listeners to extract meaning from spoken input. The importance of listening comprehension development in second language acquisition is discussed, as are types of activities and listening materials which can be used to foster development of listening comprehension. (SED)

Discusses factors to consider when buying software for a computer-assisted foreign language program. These factors include (1) software functions, (2) software distribution, (3) software language, and (4) after-sale support. (SED)