ERIC Number: ED374680
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1994-Apr
Pages: 72
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
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Available Date: N/A
Increasing Levels of Interest and Motivation of Sixth-Grade Junior High Foreign Language Students through Curriculum Redevelopment and Innovative Teaching Methods.
Kulig, Barbara; O'Brien, Mary Lou
This paper describes an agenda for expanding interest and motivation among sixth-grade foreign language students in a middle-class suburban community located in northeastern Illinois. The problem was originally noted by the teaching staff/researchers who found students unable to focus and maintain attention during class. Administration of surveys to students and teachers confirmed the problem and its extent. Investigation of the probable cause data disclosed that the curriculum was out-dated and inappropriate. it did not address real-life situations and lacked continuity. Teaching methods were deficient in creativity, and the program did not speak to the academic needs of a heterogeneous group of students. Solutions suggested by professional experts, in conjunction with an investigation of the problem setting, indicate two compatible teaching methodologies that would offer successful outcomes. The two strategies served as a basis for designing the curriculum. Student levels of interest in foreign language increased, as did their motivation. These changes appeared to be related to curricular modifications and revised teaching practices. Appendixes contain the sixth-grade schedule and four survey instruments. (Author/JL)
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Masters Theses; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
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Author Affiliations: N/A