To demonstrate how well-selected literature of the second language can play an important role in the curriculum of the fourth-and fifth-year high school School Spanish course and reinforce language learning, an outline for an analysis of the poem "Dedalo" by Jaime Torres Bodet is presented. Steps in this analysis include explanations of the…

Asserts that to revitalize foreign language study we need: (1) a reevaluation of the setting in which foreign language programs exist; (2) uniform standards for initial student placement in foreign language programs; and (3) continual updating by teachers, administrators, and guidance counselors of the objectives, methodology, and content of the…

Outlines a second language program that, over a period of three years, exposes the student to three languages and several teachers and stresses communicative competence. (AM)

The "waystage" objective for adult modern language learning in the European unit/credit system is described. Waystage is an intermediary objective below "threshold level," the latter stage being the minimum proficiency level likely to be required to function adequately in temporary contacts with foreign language speakers in…

The objectives of Ukrainian language study are to: (1) understand a native speaker speaking normally on a subject within the pupils' experience, (2) speak sufficiently well to make contact with a native, (3) read with understanding on a subject within the pupils' experience, and (4) write with relative ease on contemporary topics. Along with…

Stresses the need to synthesize techniques and methodologies, and to establish a central focus for beginning and intermediate programs of foreign language education in schools, higher education, and adult education programs. General conclusions and priorities are also offered. (EJS)

GREAT BRITAIN'S LANGUAGE TEACHING PROFESSION HAS BECOME INVOLVED IN RESOLVING THE NEW DEMANDS PUT ON THE PROFESSION BY THE GREAT SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CHANGES OF THE PAST 25 YEARS. THE FIRST OF THE TWO MAIN TRENDS OF THIS REVOLUTION CONCERNS ORGANIZATION. MOST RADICAL AMONG THE CHANGES IN THIS AREA HAVE BEEN (1) THE DEVELOPMENT, IN THE NEW…

The minicourse in foreign language teaching is an outgrowth of the diversified curriculum that is based on the personal-benefit theory. The importance of the individual and the need for a differentiated program designed to foster individual interests and maximize individual potential is stressed in this theory. The rapid growth of alternative…

Performance objectives for the foreign language curriculum in Michigan schools are presented in draft form. Objectives are outlined for stages A (beginning) through D (advanced). The remainder of the volume deals with stage A. It provides a detailed description of the minimum behavioral objectives for basic language skills at the end of the…

An overview of foreign language instruction is seen as a spectrum composed of five distinct areas. The speech includes discussion of concepts related to the curriculum, linguistics, psychology, culture, and a "Master Plan". The author comments on the importance of understanding that language instruction, as an academic pursuit, is directly related…

A discussion of foreign language education, especially the lack of common goals, proliferation of options and unrealistic demands made by instructional materials. Reinstatement of a general language requirement after a reexamination of the discipline for its contribution to basic humanistic goals and development of an articulated curriculum are…

A project was undertaken for the promotion of unit/credit systems for language learning by adults. Project aims were to: (1) show that anaylsis or identification of language needs ought to be an intergral part of the unit/credit language learning processes; (2) show that all parts of the system are interdependent, including analysis of resources…

This report presents the conclusions and recommendations of a residential colloquium concerning modern languages for the 1980's, attended by 70 representatives of various sectors and levels of the educational system. The colloquium was a response to widespread concern about the crisis in language learning in the United Kingdom. The colloquium…

THE AMBIGUITY AND AMBIVALENCE THAT CHARACTERIZE ALL DISCUSSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS PERTAINING TO LANGUAGE TEACHING METHODOLOGY ARE DERIVED FROM THE "DOUBLE NATURE" OF THE SUBJECT. TO COMPLICATE THE SITUATION FURTHER, THERE IS NO CERTAINTY THAT EITHER THE "CONDITIONED" OR "CONCEPTUAL" MODES OF LANGUAGE LEARNING REALLY COMPLEMENT EACH OTHER. THE…

Skills and attitudes needed by language teachers, characteristics of a well-designed curriculum, and other aspects of teaching and learning in foreign language and second language programs are outlined. (SW)