A case study investigated the personal constructs of second language teaching held by eight teachers of Asian languages at Griffith University (Australia). The results, summarized using the Repertory Grid Technique, were reported in a chart of comparative "good" and "bad" qualities of second language teachers. A sketch of good second language…

Students of a foreign language can use cartoons to hone their listening and speaking skills, widen their vocabulary, and improve their knowledge of syntax, grammar, and semantics of a language. Activities using cartoons include: (1) gap filling: (2) caption insertion and strip sequencing; (3) caption invention and story writing; (4) comprehension…

A study revealed two problems that influence Australian students' attitudes toward the learning of Indonesian. Internal problems related to use of teaching facilities. External problems included (1) lack of knowledge about Indonesia in Queensland, (2) lack of awareness of importance of learning Indonesian, (3) marginal position of Indonesian in…

Defines and illustrates the importance of lexical function in second language learning based on the "meaning-text" model of I. A. Mel'cuk. Examples in French and in English demonstrate that it is possible to combine lexical and grammatical learning. (DJD)

Suggestions for motivating students in the language classroom include encouraging students' self-confidence in their abilities; setting realistic goals that do not push students past their maximum capacity; recognizing students' outstanding achievements; and reassessing and incorporating new ideas into classroom techniques and environment. (CB)

A language teacher's Japanese-language learning experiences in educational and immersion environments lead to assertions about the ineffectiveness of exclusive use of traditional instructional methodologies; exclusive dependence on osmosis for developing fluency; instructional materials that students perceive as beneath them; and assumptions that…

Describes the rationale, content, goals, and initial results of an Australian high school's French immersion program. Factors cited in the program's success include strong parental support and a generally supportive school and community environment. (CB)

Discusses the advantages of using video materials in teaching Spanish at an intermediate level, where there are typically several levels of language knowledge and ability. Such materials improve students' ability to understand language context, listening comprehension, discussion skills, and awareness of different uses of language. (CB)

Describes the use of a grid survey activity to promote natural communication in the second-language classroom. The surveys, which elicit descriptive information from students, can be easily adapted to several themes and subjects, are easy to design, can be used with low- or high-proficiency students, and can be used to provide feedback to students…