Researchers investigated Spanish learning outcomes for fluent and nonfluent limited-English-proficient Hispanic subjects in a maintenance bilingual program. Spanish reading and mathematics achievement were analyzed for each group using Texas norms. Both groups performed at or above the norms for 11 of 12 grade clusters for Spanish reading or…

A discussion of three years of French experimentation with foreign languages in the elementary schools looks at successes, lessons learned, and issues yet to be resolved, including expansion of languages taught, linguistic objectives of instruction, articulation with secondary education, program administration questions, and design of teacher…

How the ultimate proficiency in a second language is affected by the age at which learners begin learning the target language was studied. Results showed a striking difference in mean reaction time for native versus nonnative groups, even for early bilinguals. (16 references) (Author/LB)

A study found that trained standardized patients could provide a reliable assessment of English proficiency of foreign medical graduates by comparison with a standardized language test, but further research is needed to determine whether it is necessary to provide a clinical context for language assessment. (MSE)

Interviews with 6 English teachers and 71 Arab students studying English at a Saudi college of education revealed that student deficiencies in speaking English were related to negative attitudes toward speaking held by students, teachers, and peers; limited opportunities for speaking English; and inappropriate curriculum and teaching methods.…

Researchers investigated how prepared recent California State University teacher education graduates felt to teach limited English proficient (LEP) students. Results indicated subjects believed they had inadequate preparation in methods and adapting instruction in content areas. They felt they lacked opportunities to teach LEP students under the…

Reports a study of the relationship between nonverbal forms of communication, principally gestures, and second language (L2) private speech through recall and picture narration task. Results show nonverbal elements illuminate the private speech they accompany, and gestures alone act in a self-regulatory capacity after pauses, implying a connection…

Comparison of language proficiency gains in Russian study abroad in Russia looked at homestay versus dormitory residence. Statistical analysis of the American Council of Teachers of Russian students records database, which contains proficiency data on 2,500 study-abroad participants, was used to compare gains made in speaking, listening, and…

This first of a two-part article looks at the language learning-acquiring distinction, discussing the consequences of teaching at either end of the learning-acquiring continuum. Describes the distinction between the two, discusses the learning versus acquiring of grammar, and compares the two. The second part of the article will focus on memory…

Examines key educational policies and practices that limit opportunities for bilingual education teachers to obtain academic language proficiency in Spanish. Bilingual-education teacher training cannot make up for ground lost by educators who lack prior attainment of math and science Spanish-language skills. Effective Spanish-language competency…

Discusses the utility of the German Speaking Test (GST) as a general test of German foreign-language proficiency, examining whether it can be used effectively in classroom and institutional foreign-language settings and how proficiency ratings based on the GST relate to examinees' real-world German communicative abilities. Caveats regarding the…

Thirty-seven post-secondary students were studied over one semester in intensive English-as-a-Second-Language or degree programs, with a focus on their English language development and adaptation to Canadian life and study. Data were gathered through ongoing informal contact and pre- and post-administration of a detailed questionnaire, an English…

Examines the cognitive basis of one experienced English-as-a-foreign-language teacher's instructional decisions in grammar teaching. Based on extensive classroom observations and interviews, the article describes the teacher's personal stores of knowledge, beliefs, assumptions, and attitudes that affect his instructional decisions. (Author/JL)

Describes a three-year German-language program taught in five elementary schools beginning in grade three. The program develops language proficiency, heightens cultural sensitivity, and integrates language study with core curriculum content. Technological features include German-language video presentations, telephone connections with a…

The Standards for Foreign Language Learning present a definition of language teaching that includes the sociolinguistic and cultural aspects of language. The article analyzes the concept of communicative competence as used by sociolinguists and anthropologists and examines some of the components of communication (interpersonal, interpretive, and…