Learning theory inherent in concepts related to and including individualized instruction in FLES is explored in this article. A distinction is made between individualized activity and individualized instruction. Differences which distinguish the FLES learning environment from the secondary school language learning situation are pointed out.…

Most textbooks for teaching foreign languages have as their basis a grammatical syllabus. The theory has been that it is easier for students to learn a language if they are exposed to one part of the grammatical system at a time. Recently critics have questioned this theory, arguing that the grammatical syllabus fails to provide the necessary…

This article maintains that advanced language learning is inseparable from subject study in the foreign language in question, and that the teaching of specific disciplines in a foreign language should be the cornerstone of advanced language study. Curriculum and methods for advanced levels are discussed. (CLK)

A summary is presented of the views of foreign language experts concerning the foreign language requirements for preparation toward liberal arts degrees in schools and colleges, and their opinions on what should be priority goals of foreign language departments. Questionnaire responses were obtained from 47 foreign language specialists. (SW)

Outlines the procedures used to identify, analyze, and organize components of an American Sign Language curriculum, based on processes used to develop second-language curricula. Students are encouraged to develop communicative competence and cultural awareness in a classroom environment, allowing for natural language learning. (CB)

Considers several challenges evolving in the field of foreign language instruction, including unity of foreign language teachers, teaching objectives, the importance of listening comprehension, compulsory foreign language education, language tests, speech skills, and curriculum. (CB)

Presents a well-defined, goal-responsive curriculum model, derived from the concepts of the American Council for the Teaching of Foreign Languages, which introduces several foreign languages to middle-grade students to begin to construct a foundation for later proficiency in a foreign language and to instill greater cultural sensitivity.…

Questions the prevalent attitude of English as a second language teachers regarding the teaching of writing skills. Weaknesses in syllabi and teaching strategies are cited, indicating deficiencies in the teaching of discourse analysis--the manipulation of words, structures, and ideas--all skills necessary for the development and production of a…

Presents some suggestions for improving and expanding present curriculum frameworks for teaching English to deaf students. Of major importance to the deaf student is an understanding of the rationale for learning the language in the first place. In addition, a knowledge of the students' needs is stressed, in relation to understanding those…

Describes "Imitation Exercise," which has been developed to help beginning language learners cope with hearing and recognizing a collection of sounds they are unfamiliar with. By conducting the exercise entirely in the students' native languages, they are not threatened, and in addition, they are allowed to listen to sounds in a familiar,…

The use of the Language Background Questionnaire is analyzed, and the following criticisms are offered: (1) the varying nature and range of questions used, (2) the inclusion of indirect language background questions, and (3) previous methods of categorization of individuals into groups using language background scores. (SL)

College undergraduates and upper-level high school students are teaching Spanish, under the supervision of their foreign language teachers. The program is mutually beneficial, providing "hands on" teaching experience for the college students, while at the same time, providing an enjoyable and different learning environment for the…

This paper offers a current overview and a commentary on the current state and future directions of research in second language learning. It begins by outlining the ways perceptions of the world influence research and teaching. It then explores the contexts in which one individual has explored learning in second languages. Then an opinion is…

Asserts that to revitalize foreign language study we need: (1) a reevaluation of the setting in which foreign language programs exist; (2) uniform standards for initial student placement in foreign language programs; and (3) continual updating by teachers, administrators, and guidance counselors of the objectives, methodology, and content of the…

Outlines a second language program that, over a period of three years, exposes the student to three languages and several teachers and stresses communicative competence. (AM)