A guide to the use of role playing in the foreign language classroom outlines in general terms what role play is, provides examples, analyzes its uses, and gives practical assistance in planning activities. The following topics are examined: aspects of role behavior (formality, register, function, attitude, para-linguistic and extra-linguistic features, acceptability and appropriateness, and the immediacy of oral interaction), roles in the classroom, and activities often confused with role play. Two sample role plays, one for beginning students and one for advanced, are described and analyzed in terms of teacher and class preparation and follow-up. Advantages of role play (including maximizing student activity, relevance, interest, discipline, and mixing of ability groups), disadvantages (including organization and time constraints), and further points for consideration (teacher role, teacher and student attitudes, and mistakes) are outlined and discussed. A role play checklist for activity selection, preparation, action, and followup is included, and guidelines are given for long-term preparation, including formal oral practice, dialogue work, conversational techniques, group work, miming and drama, and listening comprehension. Suggestions for developing role plays focus on interviews, role plays on one theme, and using existing materials. Simple role plays for beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels are appended. (MSE)