Parents' most frequent questions about foreign language programs in U.S. public schools are answered in this leaflet. Topics briefly covered include (1) the problem of who should study a foreign language, (2) the selection of a foreign language, (3) the advantages of early language training, (4) the amount of time needed for competence in the…

Second language instruction in the U.S. and Europe is in difficulties. The choice of a second language is artibrary and the motivation dubious. In Europe and now also in the U.S., attention has turned to the planned interlanguage Esperanto, which offers a maximally regularized structure, is considered "easy" by learners, and has the…

Discusses topics treated at the Congress, including: diversification of foreign language offerings in the schools; the situation in West Germany; language teaching in occupational schools; practical aspects of teaching; teaching literature; area studies; linguistic problems, e.g., creating a single transcription usable for all the languages…

This paper addresses the effects of the open admissions policy on the study of foreign languages at the City College in New York. Issues discussed include enrollment trends, course offerings, and staffing requirements. (SW)

There has been an exile of literature from the English as a second language curriculum. Language is a small part of the communication that takes place in a culture. Cultural complexities in literature are valuable for the teaching of second language students. Teaching suggestions and references are provided. (SW)

In Britain the reorganization of secondary schools, curriculum reform and the consequent language offerings to pupils of all abilities has resulted in questioning and experimentation. Changes in time tables and teacher allocation at a London comprehensive school are described. A multi-media French course called "Eclair" is also…

Discusses the pros and cons of instituting honors courses in the study of foreign languages begun at the upper level (Grades 11-13). (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Discusses English course offerings at German People's Universities, specifically, Frankfurt. Applicants are counselled at orientation and grouped according to aims and preparation. Most courses have hiterto met only once a week; there is a trend toward increasing the frequency. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Describes the materials, scheduling, testing, classroom activities, and teaching assistantships in a flexible two-semester program. Student attitudes and attrition are also discussed. (DB)

A report on the status of Portuguese in university language programs. The role of the AATSP in the promotion of Portuguese and a description of several of its recommendations are given. The success of most strong university programs is attributed to good public relations and interdepartmental communication. (AMH)

The A-level French syllabus is criticized for its emphasis on translation and its failure to teach the language as a contemporary medium of communication. A curriculum guide is presented based on the layout, development and history of Paris and French society. (CHK)

Argues that revision of the sixth-form French curriculum should not exclude literature, but should include a French reading program with a variety of books that encourage the student to enjoy reading. Set authors and books for the A-level exams receive longer explanation and discussion. (CHK)

This is account of a foreign language curriculum developed by the Norwalk Public School System in Connecticut. It emphasizes bilingual interchanges between students of various ethnic backgrounds and a classroom setting that uses tape equipment to personalize basic linguistic concepts. (Editor/RK)

Currently some skepticism exists concerning the value of area studies--especially the concept of "national traits." Also, the alleged motivational value may be offset by the sacrifice of language-learning time. German language teaching has followed the U.S. lead; American teachers might profit from German experience. (Text is in German.) (WGA)

Reports results of an experiment using peer observation of teachers as part of the evaluation process. The study indicates that a large number of evaluators will produce fair and just evaluations of their peers, with any kind of bias leveling out. Thus, by implication, a small evaluation team could be dangerous. Discusses the improbability of…