Every secondary school pupil studies modern foreign languages as part of the curriculum, and some do so with considerably more success than others. This book looks firstly at the ways in which languages can be taught, and secondly at case studies that highlight the practical methods that will help teachers get the best results. The case studies included show that the best learners are those who have developed learning strategies that help them succeed. These learning strategies are examined through practical examples carried out in classrooms, and advice is given about ways in which teachers can ensure that all their pupils have the opportunity to develop these skills. Lots of suggestions are made about the various activities teachers can carry out in order to make learning enjoyable and positive. In some cases, the results are shown to be very encouraging and any language teacher should be left with a feeling not only of renewed enthusiasm for their subject area but also a deeper understanding of how to enable learners to reach their full potential.

'The whole is a fascinating critical and highly perceptive analysis, that is both resolutely academic and yet lucid, unstuffy and extremely readable. The constant linking of the linguistic with the pedagogic will appeal to researchers and teachers alike the exemplar materials are highly appropriate and resoundingly practical.' - The Times Educational Supplement

'For the teacher who feels that the sheer amount of topic-based vocabulary and transactional phrase learning has eclipsed the pursuit of quality teaching this book offers practical ideas as well as inviting further discussion.' - Educational Review