Whole language content lessons are recommended as a means for teachers of English as a second language to help their students develop both communicative and academic competence. Whole language is an approach to teaching that relies on the principles that lessons should: (1) progress from whole to part, (2) be learner-centered, (3) have meaning and purpose, (4) promote social interaction, (5) include all four communication modes (listening, speaking, reading, and writing), and (6) reflect the teacher's faith in the learners. Each of the principles is explained, a content lesson based on these principles is described, and a checklist for evaluating the degree to which any lesson is consistent with whole language principles is offered. (Author/MSE)