Some aspects of planning second language programs along communicative lines are examined, and a framework for planning communicative classroom activities is described. The problem of determining whether to start planning with methodology and materials or overall curriculum design is discussed at length. A practical solution, a teacher's handbook…

In the study reported here, an attempt was made to measure the relative achievement of students enrolled in four intermediate-level college Spanish courses, including one of near-immersion design. Course designs differed in methods of teaching and in intensity; it was expected that these differences would be reflected in student achievement.…

An introduction to contemporary views of second/foreign language course design is intended for even relatively inexperienced teachers wishing to meet the somewhat sophisticated current expectations for language training. First, it provides theoretical background concerning the concepts of communicative competence and second language proficiency,…