The role of the media in our daily lives is discussed and its potential applications in the second language classroom are examined. Evidence of the power of the mass media is noted in the impact of news coverage on the news itself, and in the immediacy of news coverage. Video is also seen as stimulating and appealing to many, and able to reflect…

The reprint of a 1984 article on language teaching for communicative competence focuses on the use of small group communicative activities. The benefits and advantages of small group (two to six participants) communications activities are outlined, including the increased opportunities for speaking, less intimidating context, retention of…

A discussion of teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) focuses on principles and techniques for the development of one form of communicative competence, i.e., sociolinguistic competence. First, the concept of sociolinguistic competence is explained, drawing on research in this area. Sources of problems in development of second language…

Teachers with at-risk students in their classrooms find themselves in the position of having to teach social skills as well as academic skills. The teacher of social skills provides the classroom and materials that facilitate the development of responsible social behavior. The Structured Learning Approach is a means to assist teachers with…

Noting that teachers' nonverbal behaviors are frequently inconsistent with their verbal messages, a situation that detracts from student learning, this paper offers an activity for focusing prospective teachers' attentions on the frequency and impact of discrepant verbal-nonverbal messages occurring in the classroom. The step-by-step process is…

One of a series of pamphlets providing practical and useful sources of classroom techniques for social studies teachers, the concern of this issue is the use of simulations, specifically focused conversations, role-playing, sociodrama, and gaming. A review of the concept of simulation is followed by a discussion of the circumstances which maximize…

Suggests that small group instructional methods in the adult language classroom can accomplish the task at hand and also bring about interaction and real communication among the students and, therefore, significant learning. Small group instructional methods are presented and discussed. (EJS)

Discusses three objectives of simulations in training language teachers: (1) embodying issues directly related to professional concerns, (2) fostering cross-cultural sensitivity, and (3) presenting the subject content of special purpose courses. Illustrates adapted vs. original material and open-ended, sketched, and fully developed formats. (SED)

Techniques for providing variety and effectiveness within the lecture format are described, including the oral essay, participatory lecture, problem-solving approach, alternating mini-lectures and discussions, modeling analytical skills, debate, simulation and role-playing, and the affective/emotional media lecture. (MSE)

Suggests using journal writing from the perspective of frontier settlers to teach history. Describes possible techniques for using this method and provides examples of sample journal entries. Links this methodology with research in the social studies. (KO)

Proposes that teachers use make-believe and fantasy to motivate and assist students in addressing the art object. Provides suggestions for using both familiar and fantasy roles to develop skills and insights related to art criticism. (CFR)

A discussion of misunderstandings occurring in the college classroom looks at the common sources of misconceptions and offers three ways to diagnose and address them: (1) asking students to think aloud as they solve problems; (2) having students teach course topics; and (3) reviewing students' notes with them. (MSE)

Discusses the dynamics and development of prosocial play activities for children with a variety of handicapping conditions. Suggests ways for teachers to facilitate the participation of children with special needs. Contains 14 references. (Author/LB)

A classroom exercise to teach cross-cultural issues has students wear a mask of anonymity to express and defend highly controversial topics. Role playing heavily polarized positions enables all participants to discuss frankly and explore issues drawn from contemporary events that are otherwise too sensitive for open discussion. The outcome is a…

It is argued that field trips and related activities in and out of the classroom, especially when well-planned, have educational, social, and cultural value for students of English as a Second Language (ESL). They offer meaningful learning experiences, extra learning opportunities, and authentic language encounters with native English-speakers.…