Describes a project designed to make second language reading more pleasurable, noting how computers can help students achieve this goal. The researcher used HyperCard to create reading software with translations appearing in pop-up windows, allowing students to read text with minimal interruption. Students reacted positively to the software, and…

This article presents a methodological comparison of beliefs and practices with regard to teaching a third-year introduction to reading and literature course. It reviews the different educational backgrounds of the teachers--one in foreign language acquisition and the other in literary study--and describes their different approaches to teaching…

Presents study designed to investigate effects of statements designed to activate scripts on measures of unfamiliar vocabulary with American college students reading in French and in English. Study revealed importance of preparing readers for what they are about to read. Teachers should keep background and present knowledge of students in mind…

A teaching technique is described in which each student is presented with a written clue from a mystery story which is pertinent to the solution of the mystery. Sustained student interaction is required. This joint problem-solving endeavor requires students to use both oral and written linguistic skills. (Author/RM)

A study investigated aspects of reading comprehension for familiar and unfamiliar topics among native and nonnative English-speaking college students enrolled in French and Italian courses. Results suggest that, as comprehension proficiency improves, qualitative differences appear rather than just quantitative ones. Background knowledge was found…

Compared the way in which learners of French as a Second Language (L2) and English as a First Language (L1) established the coherence of a specific text. Results indicated that when L2 learners approached a text, criteria of familiarity, expectation of meaning, and the teaching context were important. (12 references) (MDM)

This article presents a method to make scientific written English accessible to speakers of other languages, specifically speakers of French. (Text is in French.) (CLK)

If Anglophone students are to read French at an adult level, they must not only acquire a selected small vocabulary but also be trained to interpret words creatively within a context in order to use their vocabulary. Instruction should include exercises to foster this creativity. (MSE)

Discusses a study designed to verify the validity and effectiveness of the summary as a teaching and testing tool. The subjects were Italian students enrolled in second year French at the university level. (CFM)

The ability of foreign students to read non-scientific material efficiently is important for rapid social and cultural integration. This report describes the reading comprehension section of a French language course aimed at foreign students at the Nancy Science Faculty. Exercises are presented which cover morpho-syntactic, communicative and…

This book emphasizes the process of learning in immersion programs, particularly those related to reading. It explores language learning processes and experiences among French late immersion grade 9 students and Australian teachers completing a university-based Chinese immersion graduate diploma. Using students from each group as key informants,…

When college students (N=124) studying French performed a cloze test, translated additional text, and recalled the reading, results indicated that both syntactic and vocabulary proficiency positively affected reading comprehension and recall of text. This supports continued attention to grammar and vocabulary-building exercises for students in…

A framework for a college introductory French literature class suggests suitable texts, methods, and activities, with emphasis on communication. In "Problems in Language and Style," students' reading, writing, and speaking skills are developed through the thorough and methodological reading of texts, novels, and plays. (CB)

Discusses a foreign-language-reading approach through which students are exposed to various books that they self-select and discuss in literature circles, noting 49 college students' reactions to the approach in a French language class. Student surveys indicated that the method had a positive impact on their reading comprehension and attitudes,…

Presents a three-part approach for developing critical reading and critical thinking skills in the foreign language curriculum. This approach seeks to (1) establish a conducive environment for critical thought; (2) sharpen students' critical eye through extensive analytical reading; and (3) sensitize students to language and language use.…