Date of Award

9-1-2011

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

International and Second Language Studies

First Advisor

Dave McAlpine

Second Advisor

Stephanie Dhonau

Abstract

Currently in China, the demand for proficient English speakers in the work place continues to grow exponentially. In both China and America the need for educating students in foreign languages is a complicated, monumental undertaking. Both countries must find ways to work within their present governing systems to bring students to proficiency in foreign languages. This study was done to ask the question, "Can the American emphasis on communicative language competence in foreign language study be helpful to the Chinese system of foreign language instruction?" This thesis provides an overview of the historical as well as the current philosophy of English language instruction in China. Also, it looks at the national standards and guidelines for language instruction in both countries. It includes a two-day workshop based in communicative language teaching methods for K-12 Chinese English teachers. This workshop provides tools for language teaching that can be readily found in China, that are culturally relevant, and that are based in sound proficiency-oriented language instruction.

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