The opinions of second language learning (L2) theorists and researchers are divided over whether to use authentic or simplified reading texts as the means of input for beginning- and intermediate-level L2 learners. Advocates of both approaches cite the use of linguistic features, syntax, and discourse structures as important elements in support of…

Discusses the importance of the nonverbal component in second language learning, and describes research on the role of kinesics in language. (AM)

This study investigates if negotiation can affect syntacticization in the learning of second language (L2) syntax. Evidence from a number of studies has suggested that linguistic modification occurs during negotiation, but no research has examined if such modifications assist the learning of syntax in a second language. This study examined to what…

Research on second language acquisition (SLA) and research on foreign language learning (FLL), often regarded as different and separate fields of inquiry, are compared in a brief review of literature. Perceptions about the scopes and characteristics of the research are examined. Concerns about the relationship between SLA research and theory and…

A study of the order of acquisition and fossilization of several French forms by anglophone students focused on the intonative aspect of interlanguage and the transfer of learning from one language to another. (MSE)

Outlines the theoretical assumptions and pedagogical implications of error analysis and attempts to show the relevance of error analysis to language teaching practice. (CFM)

A framework for developing a coherent research agenda for discovering how language teachers think and work is suggested that includes the following: conceptions of teaching, dimensions of knowledge, and teachers' lives and careers. (Contains 21 references.) (LB)

The International Society for the History of French as a Foreign or Second Language (SIHFLES) had a fruitful meeting in 1990, planning a substantial and diversified program of activities that illustrates the dynamism of the organization. One topic of considerable debate was the role of research in the association's mission. (MSE)

Notes the positive effects of assigning students tasks that require them to find samples of language that exemplify some general theoretical principles. (RL)

These two articles represent both a compilation of more than 100 dissertations completed in U.S. universities in 1991 and an unannotated bibliography that updates and expands previous versions published in "Unterrichtspraxis" in 1973 and 1985. (approximately 400 references) (Author/LB)

It is suggested that feasible current approaches to language teaching are "principled," in that there is perhaps a finite number of general, widely accepted, research-based principles upon which classroom practice is grounded. Twelve such principles--categorized as cognitive, affective, and linguistic principles--are discussed. (13 references) (LB)

Describes five types of language research projects that enable students to examine language for themselves. (DD)

Discusses prevailing ideas of how children learn language and addresses the argument of rules versus analogies in learning to form the past tense of verbs. Cites cases involving connectionist models. (ML)

Findings of sociolinguistic research that can be used by language teachers to elicit meaningful and authentic communication from their students are reviewed, including such factors as nonverbal cues, situation, intent, mood, and cultural norms. (MSE)

Tells how children's spelling strategies offer a glimpse of their knowledge about words; describes a study indicating that children's knowledge about words develops sequentially and systematically over an extended period of time. Discusses implications of the study for spelling instruction. (GT)