Discussion of Gal'perin's theory of step-by-step formation of mental actions includes descriptions of experimental applications of this activity approach to teaching foreign languages. Constructing and understanding sentences are discussed, and activities for the construction of a sentence and the orientation base of action (OBA) for German,…

A system for evaluating language teaching uses a specially designed assessment form to give supervisors,' peers,' and students' views of the teacher's performance. The instrument provides both subjective and objective information, is designed for use in secondary and higher education, and evaluates verbal and nonverbal behavior. (MSE)

Used primarily for second language learning, Suggestopedia is a learning method which facilitates whole brain learning by using the arts--music, drawing, and theatrical presentations--to reduce negative and increase positive suggestive factors. Stages in a lesson are discussed and sources of information and suggestopedia music selections are…

A French course for graduate students and professors preparing for field work in West Africa is described. Difficulties included defining the context for the language's use, time constraints, and learners' job-orientation and tendency to set their own standards of performance. Students' preexisting knowledge of the subject was an advantage. (MSE)

An Air Force Academy German department study of the effectiveness of computer-assisted language instruction using interactive videodisc technology is reported. It was found that the limiting factor was not the technology but the available software, and the advantage over videotapes is the time saved in not having to find tape locations. (MSE)

Discusses the development of a communicative language testing unit for grade nine French immersion students. The interlocking of teaching and testing is suggested, by preparing a potential testing unit for every communicative, theme-oriented curriculum teaching unit, thus aiming toward goals compatible with both teacher and student. (SL)

Analyzes three programs comprised of subject study integrated with English as a second language study. Although each program is different, it is suggested that by citing their common intentions, other language program designers might be able to create similar components of subject study suited to the learning needs of their particular students.…

Discusses Michael Canale's paper, "Considerations in the Testing of Reading and Listening Proficiency," focusing on the third section, "Suggestions for improvements in receptive language testing." Considers such areas as: (1) level descriptions for academic use, (2) item and item types, and (3) validation. (SED)

The interactive videodisc has two advantages for foreign language teaching: it captures the nonverbal element of communication and allows alternatives to written testing. However, there are no French-produced versions yet available, and there is the danger that the technique will go largely unused, as did language laboratories and educational…

The purpose of this document is to support school districts in their efforts to serve the special needs of English language learners (ELLs) in reaching high academic standards as well as in attaining English language proficiency. The materials included should provide educators with information on appropriate and effective services for ELL…

This paper provides a discussion of some of the dilemmas that face teachers of English as a Second Language (ESL). The author suggests that end-of-course assessments of ESL students should include a measure of growth, gain, or value-added, as well as measures of students' mastery of the English standards or English course criteria. Research has…

The "Teaching Foreign Languages" workshop will help K-12 foreign language teachers improve their practice by making connections between the National Standards for Foreign Language Learning and current research in foreign language education. Workshop components include eight lively half-hour video programs with leading researchers and practicing…

This reproducible, multilevel curriculum for English Literacy and Civics Education contains six field-tested and illustrated models: (1) The Democratic Process; (2) Community and Home Safety; (3) The Public Library; (4) The U.S. School System; (5) Public Health Services; and (6) Housing. The package includes the following: the Community…

This case study examines the motivation of two intermediate foreign language learners engaged in a remote language exchange partnership. A learner of English in Japan and a learner of Japanese in Australia completed language exchange activities using the telephone, Internet text chat, and e-mail over 10 weeks. Quantitative and qualitative methods…

This paper situates the notion of foreign language (FL) standards within a larger culture of standardization grounded in (1) the context of FL education, (2) the larger political and educational context of standards based reform and standardized assessment, and (3) the pervasive linguistic culture and ideology associated with the notion of…