Seven essential components of an immersion teacher preparation program are proposed, based on an analysis of the immersion approach to second language teaching and analysis of a survey of 120 teachers using French as the language of instruction for the majority of the school day. (MSE)

Teacher training for French instructors is criticized as incomplete, consisting only of some formulas for immediate classroom application. A plan for a more comprehensive curriculum consisting of theoretical and practical components in the areas of language, culture, learning, communication, and instruction is proposed. (MSE)

Training for ESL teachers should include linguistic training and application skills, cultural appreciation, second language teaching competencies, and the abilities to design and evaluate curriculum and to select or develop tests. Teacher specialization opportunities, support services, professional development, and the links between research and…

The amount of instructional time lost to transitional activities by student teachers, and techniques to minimize this time loss, are discussed. Time lost is estimated to average 9 percent, varying with the individual teacher. Suggestions are given for teacher supervisors to help student teachers optimize their class time. (MSE)

Practical ideas for classroom management, environment, and communication to make the first year of French teaching easier and more effective are provided for new teachers. Hints address classroom and instructional organization, student and teacher speech, grouping, and developing student motivation. (MSE)

An observation technique is presented that is designed to give teachers and future teachers a means of furthering their own training in teaching second languages. This technique is based on an approach that links theory and practice with an emancipatory process and complements already available observation schemes. (67 references) (Author/MSE)