Content-based language instruction is an integrated approach to language instruction drawing topics, texts, and tasks from content or subject-matter classes but focusing on the cognitive, academic language skills required to participate effectively in content instruction. It is of growing interest to teachers of both English as a Second Language and other second languages. It has been used in courses of English for academic and special purposes, vocational English, programs for foreign teaching assistants, partial or total language immersion, academic courses, and two-way bilingual programs, and at all instructional levels. Another approach is for content teachers to adapt instruction to differential language proficiency levels in the class. Attributes of content-based instruction include: instructional objectives drawn from language, academic content, and cognitive skills; schema knowledge developed in the language of instruction; inclusion of content-obligatory and content-compatible languages; paired and small-group work; wide range of materials; multiple media and presentation techniques; experiential and discovery learning; and use of writing for both cognitive and evaluative purposes. Content-based instruction often begins with collaboration of a language and a content teacher. Additional work is needed in teacher education, student assessment, program evaluation, and instructional material development. (MSE)