This comprehensive analysis of French teaching methodology reveals basic problems underlying the current philosophy of language learning, while presenting new ideas based on extensive research. Two books, "Active French; Dialogues" and "Active French: Foundations Course" (Books 1 and 2), which stress well specified learning objectives, were developed to provide a dual approach to the morphology and syntax of the target language, thereby illustrating to the student the complexity of foreign language study. While urging an "intellectual approach" to language learning, the author includes extensive coverage of: (1) methodology, (2) phonology, (3) morphology, (4) audio-visual materials, and (5) the use of the "Active French" texts. Other chapters deal with syntax, vocabulary, spelling, comprehension, expression, and techniques for practice and testing. Concluding remarks bear significantly on the teacher, the learner, and problems inherent in our educational system. An index is furnished. (RL)