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Teaching Foreign Languages‐Why? A New Look at an Old Question
Author(s) -
Alatis James E.
Publication year - 1976
Publication title -
foreign language annals
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.258
H-Index - 49
eISSN - 1944-9720
pISSN - 0015-718X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1944-9720.1976.tb02669.x
Subject(s) - plea , foreign language , linguistics , value (mathematics) , language education , language assessment , foreign language teaching , comprehension approach , sociology , pedagogy , political science , computer science , philosophy , law , machine learning
Beginning with a rapid review of selected classics on the value of foreign language study, the article goes on to suggest new emphases from three points of view: that of foreign language teachers from abroad, that of English as a second language and bilingual education, and that of anthropological linguistics. For the individual, language learning may be a source of peak experiences; for mankind, a contribution toward international understanding. Bilingual education is seen as a means of enrichment for all. A plea is made for a new concept of a unified professional entity in the language profession, especially for improved communication with the public.