The French Language Immersion Program (FLIP) at Plattsburgh State University College, is described in terms of its origin, implementation, operation, research, long-range plans, and social implications. As a research and demonstration program at the laboratory school of the State University College of New York at Plattsburgh, the class consisted of 18 five and six year old children whose native language was English. Although the class was conducted entirely in French, the children were free to speak English among themselves. The FLIP program is bilingual education undertaken primarily for cultural enrichment by monolinguals. The early and full immersion program is structured and led by an experienced French individual. The program has high administrative support, high community visibility, and high parental interest, and children are voluntarily enrolled in the program. FLIP has been the subject of extensive research conducted by an interdisciplinary research team of faculty members. The following set of abilities are thought to be related to language competence: auditory discrimination skills, receptive language ability, expressive language skills, intellectual aptitude, academic achievement, self concept, cultural attitudes, and school attitudes. The tests that were used to assess these and more specific English language skills are listed. Initial research hypotheses based on the administration of the tests are briefly outlined. (SW)