Of the four skills, writing is the most difficult one to master. Ideally one's writing in a foreign language should result from thinking in that language and not from translating from the native language. Thinking in a language happens only with fluency. Hence, fluent speech, which entails good comprehension ability, underlies spontaneous writing. Verbal input must be challenging to the student, but not overwhelming.
Students also view films and videos specifically aimed at the beginning language learner.
Ideally, in later stages of comprehension development, students would have access to movies, television, and radio programs intended for native speakers of the language. But authentic materials are generally too difficult for beginning students. However, with the advent today of interactive video and computer-assisted language instruction, these kinds of materials can be adapted to the needs of language learners. The LLP has set as a goal the implementation of this technology in the research and development of comprehension-based language materials. Return to Linguistics Home Page Return to UCSD Home Page Maintained by Dennis Fink .