Scottish education was, until quite recently, the conscious product of liberal tradition, of the belief by influential elites that the nation's educational history was strong, coherent, and progressive, a source of economic flexibility, of modernising ideas, and of liberal opportunity. In recent decades, however, it has become fashionable to decry…

The concept of error, or mistake, is a sensitive and crucial issue in both second language learning and second language instruction. Error can play a constructive role in learning and, under some conditions, in teaching, and avoidance of error may be less productive than confrontation with it. (MSE)

Suggests that classifications of French verbs derived uncritically from Latin are not useful and are confusing because verb classes are defined according to their infinitives. It is suggested that verbs be grouped according to other criteria which are more useful to the learner. (SED)

Discusses the relationship among Latin, English, and modern French vocabulary. (AM)

The articles on culture in the Northeast Conference Report are intended especially for those teaching French, German, Italian, or Spanish. Generally they provide an update in the target language about current concerns including the family, education, economics, politics, and other matters of interest to second language learners. The following…

Discusses origin of word "standard" and how it came to be applied to language; emergence in classical times of concept of "best" Greek and Latin, and how this had profound influence on development of high vernaculars of Europe; establishment of "le bon francais" and "good English," and application of terms…

This study measured the analysis of verbal flows by means of volume-elasticity measures and the analysis of information flow structures and their representations in the form of a metaphysical cube. A special purpose system of computer programs (PERTEX) was used to establish the language space in which the textual flow patterns occurred containing…

Examines the second language learning situation in the Federal Republic of Germany and makes recommendations for its improvement. (AM)

This report states specific steps to follow in order to achieve the primary objectives of the Modern Language Association/American Council of Learned Societies Task Force, to improve the quantity and quality of second-language study in the commonly taught languages in the United States. (CFM)

Focuses on how the foreign language instructors' understanding of the historical development of forms and systematic language patterns enhances classroom presentations by transforming lists of irregularities and exceptions into coherent groups of related elements. Discusses examples of structures traditionally presented in lists or tables and…

This publication presents the foreign language profession's consensus on selected topics and is designed to address areas of interest to instructional leaders and practitioners who are concerned with developing and maintaining effective second language programs. The topics are grouped into four sections: "Preparing for the…

Papers in this volume on individualized instruction in foreign languages include: (1) "Individualized Instruction and 'Back to Basics': Are They Compatible?" by Howard B. Altman; (2) "Individualized Instruction in French at Northwestern University" by Margaret Sinclair Breslin; (3) "An Individualized French Program for…