The number of pupils learning modern foreign languages (MFLs) beyond the age of 14 has fallen substantially over the last decade. Among other reasons, shortcomings in teaching methodology have been blamed for this situation. The methodology has been accused of applying the Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) approach in a selective way and not…

The 2015 Central States Conference on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (CSCTFL) was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota together with the Minnesota Council on the Teaching of Languages and Cultures, who served as local host. This year's theme underscores the transformative nature of learning a foreign language. As language teachers we have a great…

Foreign Language Elementary Summer Camp is a fantastic way to spend part of the summer. For the past ten years in Glastonbury, Connecticut, the authors have offered a variety of foreign language elementary camps that meet daily for three hours for three to four weeks during July. Currently, they offer camps for Chinese, English Language Learners…

Many novice language teachers have difficulty putting into practice their developing knowledge of language teaching. This article focuses on one of seven case study teachers as an exemplar of those involved in a New Zealand in-service professional development program for teachers of languages (Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish) in…

Eleven West Virginia teachers contributed the games included in this publication. All of the games have been classroom tested for their educational results as well as for their promotion of student interest and are intended for use in a foreign language class. The following games are described in detail: (1) Advanced Verbs, (2) Artists, (3)…

Discusses how several forms of authentic materials can be used in the foreign language classroom. Materials are included from videotape, audiotape, and print. Sample activities use each medium for Spanish and French classes of various levels. Sources for authentic materials are listed in Appendices. (LMO)

A systematic approach for introducing new teaching techniques into the second language classroom is suggested, an exemplary form for recording information on specific techniques is presented, and 10 concrete proposals for implementing innovative techniques are offered, with examples from 4 languages. (55 references) (Author/MSE)

Mnemonic devices summarize and simplify grammar rules, especially when applied to the verb forms found in Romance languages. The article presents two mnemonic devices helpful in summarizing the uses of two verb tenses. These include coining a word to illustrate a rule and projecting irregular verb forms on a Mexican "sombrero." (four references)…

This article deals with the teaching of spelling to students of foreign languages. Sample spelling exercises are given, mostly for the teaching of French. The simplest exercises involve filling in blanks with letters in response to a picture, the copying of whole words in activities such as crossword puzzles and sentences with blanks, and…

Using examples in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, the article suggests various activities to promote the learning of descriptive adjectives and to expand students' active vocabulary. These activities include describing oneself or a friend, finding a person who possesses certain characteristics, choosing an ideal companion, and…

It is important to introduce and facilitate oral activities in the second language classroom with enthusiasm in a climate of mutual support and cooperation. Students should understand that mistakes are inevitable but not fatal, and that each attempt will build greater ease and confidence in using the language for communication. Oral proficiency…

This guide to cultural education as part of foreign language instruction begins with two short theme-setting papers: "Thoughts on Teaching Foreign Culture" by Howard L. Nostrand and "Modern Foreign Languages for Everyone: An Overview" by Alain Blanchet. A cultural events calendar presents a month-by-month program of activities built around…

Supplementary instructional materials developed by master teachers for use in foreign language classrooms are compiled in this booklet. The materials are intended for teachers of French, German, Spanish, and FLES. A wide variety of activities focusing on vocabulary development, grammar, conversational skills, and classroom games is included. (RL)

Presents various learning activities and instructional materials for helping students learn French or Spanish grammar and culture. These materials include flash cards and lists of items to be used on labels. Activities include using the flash cards, writing newspaper ads in the foreign language, and naming the different items in a house. (CK)

This study compares the instructional practices in honors and nonhonors French and Spanish classes at a Midwestern high school, as well as factors influencing those practices. The researcher observed 54 class sessions and used questionnaires and interviews to obtain teachers' perspectives on instruction. Analysis revealed a statistically…