The English spoken in India is too close to standard English to be characterized as a separate variety. Although phonological variations give English in India some regional flavors, they do not have any structural or semantic base and do not constitute a new language. Cultural differences have not caused English-language literature written in…

Describes how one English teacher stumbled on the idea of having student peer groups write scripts. Outlines a variety of ways that script writing assignments can be made. Advocates having such scripts created by student collaborative groups. (HB)

Describes the way one teacher utilizes a variety of activities by which the power of language is analyzed and fostered among students of English. Describes methods for engaging students in language play, specifically through the use of puns. (HB)

The challenges and joys involved in teaching recently arrived immigrant children are discussed in this article. A variety of effective classroom strategies are presented. Information on English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) students and ESL techniques is also included. (IAH)

Argues that (1) English should be a compulsory foreign language in Finnish schools; (2) options to teach subjects in foreign languages should be expanded; and (3) the variety of foreign language choices in rural areas of Finland should be enlarged. (SK)

Offers a series of questions related to language usage, writing, spelling and punctuation, grammar, and language variety that provide a structure for introducing problem solving into the English teacher education curriculum. Considers problem solving as a means of giving students a sense of potential conflicts they might have to resolve. (RL)

Describes how the mini-saga, which has exactly 50 words, can be used effectively in the English-as-a-Foreign-Language class in a variety of ways. The mini-sage can be used with children, as well as with adult beginners. (Author/VWL)

Contends that the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) provides a vital link connecting teachers to the energy and vibrancy of the profession. Explains that NCTE conferences energize young teachers. Notes that veteran teachers find a variety of experiences at each convention. (PM)

Describes one teacher's theory of the use of argument in the English curriculum, particularly its importance in developing democratic classrooms. Defines the multiple functions of argument in society. Advocates developing argumentative skills among students, particularly in a wide variety of forms and discourses. (HB)

The decision in the Netherlands to teach English as a second language to all students in grades five and six, by the regular class teacher, has implications for the selection of instructional approaches and materials. A clear preference for communication goals in language instruction has been shown in the Netherlands, suggesting a…

Laments the effect of educational policies on foreign language teaching, and pleads for a variety of foreign language offerings (in European schools), based on the needs of society and on individual wishes, and not only from the standpoint of a universal language (English). (IFS/WGA)

Describes the way one teacher utilizes a variety of language games by which the power of language is analyzed and fostered among students of English. Describes methods for engaging students in language games. Argues that games, to be effective, must give students a chance at success. (HB)

The current national focus on critical thinking is unnecessarily narrow in its scope, and this mitigates against essential changes being made in the thinking and reasoning activities experienced by students. Two shortcomings, however, restrict the possibilities for change: the first results from taking a generic (versus discipline-based) view of…

Explores the link between culture and international language and examines what is meant by international language. The role of culture in language teaching is discussed. and a description of the various levels of culture that can be included in teaching materials is provided. Concludes by suggesting that there are many benefits to including a…

Considers the role of high school English teachers as preparing students to do college writing. Discusses and challenges the dichotomy of academic versus personal or expressive writing. Argues that writing instruction must assume that student writing skills mature through the assignment of a variety of writing tasks. (HB)