"Sounds of Language" is a background course to provide elementary and secondary school students with a greater understanding of how language works. The course is designed to (1) introduce students to the variations of sounds and structure of many foreign languages, (2) teach study habits that are vital to successful foreign language learning, and (3) develop an understanding of the dynamics of language. Various plans for implementing the course, both at the elementary and at the high school level, are outlined. The goals of the course and student objectives with regard to sounds and language skills are described and a sample unit is given. Teacher resource information, activities for vocabulary reinforcement, special activities to augment the course, suggested field trips, and a student course evaluation form are appended. A bibliography and teacher evaluation sheet are also included. (EKN)