Reviews research on the importance of oral language for the child and provides a framework for curriculum design based on talk purposes, talk contexts, and talk planning. (DD)

A number of devices for use in teaching foreign language conservation courses are described. Among them are hypothetical situations, group discussions, activities for improving oral comprehension, plays and skits, collective stories, dialogues, interviews, speeches, recorded songs, cartoon captions, television games, and card techniques. (RM)

Argues that dramatic activity is the basis for learning, and that dramatic activities can help students learn in all subject areas, particularly in the language arts. (RL)

Describes a method of using "pesos" as a reward for prompt homework assignments, extra work and good grades, and also as a forfeit for using English in the Spanish class, unfinished assignments, or to buy points on a test. (CHK)

Eight different activities are suggested for the foreign language conversation class in order to vary the textbook emphasis. Among the suggested situations are a "last people on earth" session, sensitivity sessions, descriptions of paintings or photos, an improvised drama, and a mock trial. (CHK)

The use of an interview to test verbal ability in a second language and to establish a scale of oral proficiency is discussed. Sample questions are included in Spanish. (JB)

Describes classroom language as used in teaching an FL, recognizing it as belonging to an artificial rather than a real-life situation; this fact must be kept in mind and "the game played" in the classroom. Examples are given. (IFS/WGA)

Describes a method whereby sixth-form students assist the language instructor by leading small groups in oral practice. (AM)

To help close the gap between imitation of models and free expression, exercises are suggested, based on micro-dialogues with picture stories. Examples for pair and group work are given. (IFS/WGA)

When English is taught as a second language in grade 4 in Israeli schools, the emphasis is on listening and speaking. Efforts are made to include varied and interesting activities using games, songs, plays, and records. (Available from English Inspectorate, Ministry of Education and Culture, P. O. Box 292, Jerusalem, Israel.) (CHK)

Introduces an activity that simultaneously teaches oral expression and auditory comprehension. Groups in a class listen to an audio text that gives only incomplete information. The gaps are filled in by the group. Students are given worksheets. Presenting topics and work materials provides an integration of aural and oral skills. (IFS/WGA)

A technique is outlined which simultaneously checks students' aural and oral control of sounds and prosodies. Intended for intermediate and advanced students, the test consists of a number of minimal pairs which are read by different people while the others listen and note which of the alternatives they hear. (SW)

Outlines a "post office" lesson used in foreign language teaching. Students write postcards to each other and class conversation becomes a realistic exercise in asking directions to the Post Office, price of postage, methods of mailing, etc. (CHK)

Use of classroom improvisations and role-playing can help the second language learner speak quickly, naturally, and spontaneously. The technique is discussed and illustrated. (CHK)

Presents a unit of activities based on a reading of Albert Camus'""L'Etranger." The activities, which can be adapted to various levels and abilities in an intermediate French class, incorporate reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Sample materials and a bibliography are appended. (AM)