This report, covering the period in 1976 from July 1 through September 30, is one of a regular series on the status and progress of speech research. Manuscript topics are: stop-consonant recognition--release bursts and formant transitions as functionally equivalent, context-dependent cues; modes of perceiving; discrimination of intensity…

Studies of second language acquisition have concentrated primarily on the speech production of their subjects. This article discusses the relationship between speech directed to the learner and his speech production. (Author/KM)

Describes the oral language examinations developed by ARELS (Association of Recognized English Language Schools). Copies of the examinations in the form of "Picture Story Booklets" and "Reading Passage Booklets" can be obtained from ARELS, 15 Holland Park Gardens, London W14 8DZ. (IFS/WGA)

Reviews current approaches to testing oral competence at 16plus and suggests some less artificial alternatives. (AA)

Introduces a technique for the presentation of new vocabulary in a situation which incorporates communicative use of language. (Author/DB)

Discusses style-developing assignments in which students simulate the characteristic features of a distinctive manner of speaking. Suggests using impersonation as an invention strategy (e.g., by adopting a controversial persona position), and to encourage stylistic fluency through parodies, dialogues, or polyphonic essays. Also suggests using…

A discussion of the role that interpersonal interaction plays in the perception and interpretation of oral expression looks at language styles, the use of the body for communication, the speaker's perspective on the audience, and the importance of oral skills in politics, business, and job seeking. (MSE)

Oral-aural communication skills, which are sequentially taught in 1-hour classes to three or four students at the Michigan Rehabilitation Center for the Blind, include audition, conversation, use of playback-recording devices, techniques of aural reading, and techniques for learning sources of recorded reading materials. (Author/MC)

Discusses oververbalizing by teachers in the foreign language classroom. (DD)

A study which reinforces the hypothesis that dominant vocal characteristics will correlate with dominant personality characteristics. (RN)

Presents an annotated bibliography of resources from the ERIC database on the relationships between speech communication (speaking and listening) and the language skills of reading and writing. (PD)

Surveying alumni who had taken a basic communication course, this study obtained perspectives on communication training. Most alumni felt their speech classes prepared them "fairly well" for on-the-job communication. Although all communication skills were rated as important, interpersonal skills were rated somewhat higher than public speaking…

A method for enlivening an English conversation class is suggested wherein the goal is to get every student to participate by saying something in English, and learning corrections until later. Class periods are divided into controlled language practice, free language practice and a short period of listening comprehension. (CHK)

Presents a broad overview of the assessment movement. Reviews several approaches to assessment including basic skills, general education, major, and student development. Considers the nature of assessment in the communication field. (KEH)