This book is designed as both a methods text and practical guide for school districts and teachers involved in foreign language instruction at the elementary and middle school levels (grades K-8). Its primary concern is with majority-language speakers and with beginning-level classes. Brief introductory sections outline key concepts for success. The first major section examines the rationale, history, and models of early foreign language programs, with emphasis on selection of an appropriate program model. The second section focuses on theoretical foundations for early second language instruction, including what has been learned from experience with immersion programs and the role of culture in the language classroom. The next section considers issues in curriculum planning, student and program assessment, and teacher preparation. The final section concentrates on administrative concerns such as budgets and staffing, accumulating classroom materials and resources, and selecting and creating classroom activities. Appended materials include sample lesson plans, a list of sources of professional information and support, sources for classroom materials and supplies, sample objectives for content areas and culture, a core library list for the language teacher, key phrases in English, French, German, and Spanish, and notes on foreign languages in the middle school. (MSE)