Presents statistical data from a survey of Russian culture courses taught at institutions that offer Russian language instruction. Includes data on total number, length, and language of instruction, which, while substantiating the widespread assumption of a culture course explosion, point to the large proportion of courses that are taught in…

Discusses two key problems that plague intermediate French courses, particularly the overemphasis on the formal study of grammar and the neglect of content. Suggests that emphasis be shifted to a coherent presentation of contemporary culture, and that grammar be relegated to its proper place as the vehicle of effective communication. (MES)

Comments on the declining interest in foreign language and culture studies as a manifestation of ethnocentrism negatively affecting our international policies and our understanding of the differences within American society. Mentions the American Association of State Colleges and Universities' policy statement and the New Jersey's state-wide plan…

The dual mandate of modern language learning is considered to be linguistic competence and scholarly expertise in literature or in philology. The need for the systematic study of culture in modern language studies is discussed, and programs in the United States and Great Britain are compared. (MLW)

Points out the interdependence of the United States and Japan and identifies seven ERIC resources that can be used by educators in implementing instruction about Japan in the classroom. Summarizes these materials and provides ordering information. (KO)

Presents resource materials on the Caribbean for teachers and students. Lists works in the following areas: nonfiction for secondary students; background information and teacher guides; fiction by Caribbean writers; fiction anthologies; and poetry. Also identifies sources for books, films, and school district publications. (CH)

Provides an overview of the decade-long civil war in El Salvador and discusses its historical and cultural roots. Presents 14 letters, 2 poems, and 3 drawings by fourth-grade students in El Salvador that relate to the impact of war on their lives. Provides suggestions for using these letters in social studies classes. (CFR)

Enjoyment of ethnic food can be the "point de depart" for tracing the heritage of the people being studied and for broadening students' horizons. This article outlines a study of food throughout the centuries, particularly in Europe. The "gastronomic route" begins historically with the Minoans around 2000 B.C., continues with…

Offers guidelines for teaching about foreign countries in elementary school social studies lessons. Explains ways to determine content and goals, build background information, and locate instructional materials/community resources. Suggests activities for beginning, sustaining, and concluding units. Stresses importance of maintaining student…

Asserts that the United States and Japan exist in a symbiotic partnership and that sociology courses provide an excellent opportunity to teach about multicultural issues. Describes a college-level course on the sociology of Japan. Discusses teaching methods, instructional materials, and the potential for team-teaching. (CFR)

This quarterly newsletter, announced in RIE on a one-time basis, investigates a different area of the world in each issue. It is intended for use by businessmen, government officials, and educators. Typical issues include feature articles highlighting problems of crossing cultural boundaries to teach, do business, or cope overseas and at home;…