Li's work, which expands the government binding (GB) literature on Chinese linguistics and contributes to understanding constituency and word order, is described. Important issues are noted, empirical or theory-neutral criticisms of Li's accounts are raised, and alternative solutions are offered. (21 references) (LB)

Questionnaire responses of 154 Saskatchewan nonschool heritage language personnel regarding background, learning materials, cultural education, problem identification, and skill development suggested the need for increased opportunities to develop teaching skills, learning materials and resource guides, adequate funding, and program accreditation.…

Explores how the developmental needs of college English-as-a-Second-Language students can be met by placing them in a position of authority in relation to their reading texts, through activities that focus on the reader and the transactional nature of reading, which subsequently empower the reader and disempower the text. (CB)

In a study of instructional actions and decision making, videotapes and interviews of six preservice English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) teachers were used to determine the ways in which teachers received and responded to student input during second-language instruction. The findings highlight the cognitive demands on preservice ESL teachers. (27…

Important features of practicums for teachers of elementary school language immersion programs include: mentoring and peer coaching; guidance in self-analysis, observation, and reflection on teaching practices; and experience with realities of immersion. A period of induction beyond the practicum is also recommended. (19 references) (MSE)

Poorly trained teachers, a very diverse population, heterogeneous grouping, and a milieu that is not particularly supportive of language education in general make the Greek universities a poor environment for instruction in languages for special purposes, including French, which has the second largest enrollment among languages. (Author/MSE)

A discussion of internationalization of education in the United States looks at three aspects of the effort: study abroad; substantive instruction about other societies/cultures; and foreign-language education. For each aspect, emphasis is on four educational objectives: factual knowledge, development of empathy, attitudinal change, and…

This chart presents the focus, format, status/timelines, implementation plan, dissemination plan, professional development, and contact information for standards in arts, civics/government, economics, English, foreign languages, geography, history, mathematics, physical education, sciences, social studies, industry skills, and health. (SK)

It is argued that, if educators want French to regain and retain its appeal as a second language for young adults, they must make good use of the available resources, including international exchange opportunities, to target adolescent students. This would include refining instructional objectives to reflect adolescent concerns and needs. (MSE)

In a microethnographic study of an elementary second-language (L2) classroom, one recurring event of the classroom, the "talking circle," is analyzed in terms of its topic development, social demands, and communicative dimensions. It is argued that L2 students need abundant practice in turn-taking, interrupting, and listening. (Contains…

A study of the success of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) students on an institutional exit exam showed that ESL students are twice as likely as native English speakers to fail the exam although they compensate by passing the appeal. The findings suggest that portfolio assessment may be more valid for judging ESL students' writing. (Contains 25…

Examined the comprehension of English restrictive relative clauses containing three universal factors (interruption, word order rearrangement, and parallel function) by Chinese, Japanese, and Korean students at American universities studying English as a Second Language. The findings support the dominance of language universals in the course of…

A University of Texas, Austin, French course that uses dramatics as a focus for language practice and cultural awareness is described. Relaxation, movement, group dynamics, and interpretation of the text area are all seen as contributing to the language-learning experience. (MSE)

Discusses the implications of the National Curriculum Study finding that English as a Second Language is the fastest growing area of the curriculum. Indicates that community colleges may need to evaluate their policies toward the provision of ESL courses in light of current demographic trends. (16 citations) (MAB)

The theoretical foundations and research findings concerning sheltered French and English classes at the University of Ottawa, and an application of this model is examined as a means of ensuring better implementation and coordination of secondary French immersion programs. Quality of instruction and teaching strategies are emphasized. (18…