Language instructors at one college devised a program to increase oral proficiency in language students. An oral proficiency test was developed to measure student performance. Results show that since the proficiency test has been required, students make more efforts to increase these skills through study, conversation and language laboratory use.…

A classroom "Whiz Quiz," patterned after a television academic game show, was conducted by students in a college German class. The game was conducted entirely in German and sample questions are reproduced here. (CHK)

The use of the interview is described as a technique to integrate skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking for students of English as a second language. Coordinated use of these skills is important for natural conversation and language fluency. (CHK)

A French Language Teaching Project at the University of Bradford, England, was developed and revised during the early 1970's. Main aims were integration of language activities, restructuring activities to emphasize language skills in which students were deficient, examining roles of audio equipment and determining student attitudes. The program is…

Use of texts to improve language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing at the intermediate level is discussed. Text selection is explained, and the use of several reading and writing exercises outlined. (CHK)

Discusses problems encountered in reading of English by foreign students who are unaccustomed to English script. Considering two levels of reading, students having difficulties at one level will regress by reason of vertical decalage to a lower level of learning strategy. This is manifested by a more intent focus on individual letters if the pupil…

Reports on two sessions of "Intensive Language Groups," held at a Teachers' College (Dortmund) for German students. Reports specifically on deviations from standard English which appeared, in semantics, grammar and pronunciation, and comments on the students' inability to carry on conversations involving unfamiliar, abstract vocabulary. (IFS/WGA)

Discusses development of the language skills of listening, speaking, and reading. (DD)

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)

The degree of teacher control in a language conversation class will determine the success of the class. Beginning language classes seem to require a great deal of control; advanced conversation groups achieve more if sessions are student-run. Intermediate classes require control inversely proportionate to their skills. (CHK)

This study compares 27 sixth grade students who have been learning Spanish since kindergarten with 5 who have had Spanish for only 1 year using a battery of Spanish oral and written tests. The students who started early out performed the new students in listening, speaking, and writing Spanish. Those who started early also displayed a positive…