Globalization has led to unprecedented interest in expanding foreign language instruction in U.S. schools, particularly at grade levels where traditionally it has not been an option. Languages that previously have been rarely taught, such as Chinese, are frequently the choice of new programs at every level in the K-12 range. As No Child Left…

Examines several of the key decisions to be made when designing a program model for an elementary school foreign language program and relates them to the three most common forms of elementary school programs: FLES, FLEX, and immersion, and to the resources that may be available to a local community. (SED)

This volume of bilingual program curriculum guides enunciates the basic framework of the program, dealing with the rationale, philosophy, and general goals and objectives. Recommendations for implementation, integration, and evaluation are also included. The rationale concentrates on the educational options offered through study of foreign…

Answers 20 frequently asked questions regarding implementation of elementary school foreign language immersion programs, including consideration of program goals, staffing, total versus partial immersion, student participation, effects on other programs and learning, and parent involvement. (CB)

Immersion is defined as a method of foreign language instruction in which the regular school curriculum is taught through the medium of the language. The foreign language is the vehicle for content instruction; it is not the subject of instruction. Different questions pertaining to the following subjects are answered: (1) long-range goals of a…

A fact sheet on foreign language immersion programs, in which the regular school curriculum is taught partially or entirely in a foreign language, briefly discusses the following: (1) the structure and goals of immersion instruction; (2) the introduction of English instruction; (3) the eventual effect of immersion instruction on verbal and…

Discusses the skills and characteristics of effective elementary school foreign language teachers and the core areas of programs that best prepare effective teachers. (Author/CB)

There are over 3 million children in the United States whose primary language is other than English. Although bilingual education has been effective in meeting their needs, its availability is limited, and the alternative is often limited or no English instruction at all. It is not yet clear how effective total immersion is for non-English…

This volume of the curriculum guide provides the content of the curriculum, the performance objectives for each unit, and suggests learning experiences to achieve the desired outcomes for Level I. The first section on scope and sequence of the program is arranged in a chart format and outlines the content for each unit in the following categories:…

This volume of the curriculum guide provides the content of the curriculum, the performance objectives for each unit, and suggests learning experiences to achieve the desired outcomes for Level 2. The first section on scope and sequence of the program is arranged in a chart format and outlines the content for each unit in the following categories:…

This document presents sample lesson plans for Level 3, part of a proposed fourth volume in this series of curriculum guides, and a more detailed sampling of Level 4, which will be volume 5 of the series. The samples for Level 3 are two lesson plans for Unit Two, the content of Unit 7, and some lesson plans for that unit. The Level 4 section…