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Spotlight

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Nanduti logo
Visit this CAL website dedicated to foreign language learning in Grades preK-8. Join Ñandu, our electronic listserv that focuses on early foreign language learning.

Chinese Curriculum
Learn more about the Chinese curriculum project for grades K-2.

Fall 2013 Moderated Courses Open

Registration is open for the Fall 2013 Moderated Introduction to the SOPA and Moderated Introduction to the SOPA-Chinese online courses.

Learn more and register.

Resource Corner

Strategies for Building U.S. Foreign Language Capacity

Building the Foreign Language Capacity We Need

Learn more.

Informational Brochures
Download these free resources on how to advocate for language learning.

 

Foreign Language

Proficiency in languages other than English is critical in our global society. CAL’s foreign language experts focus on language education at all levels of instruction (preK-12, higher education, and adult education), with a special focus on teaching languages to children. CAL staff conduct language research, professional development for language teachers, information collection and dissemination, PreK-8 test development, and program evaluation. CAL has a long tradition of promoting early language education programs in elementary schools across the country and is known for its innovative Student Oral Proficiency Assessment (SOPA) interview for children, which includes hands-on activities and role plays to help children demonstrate their language skills.

CAL's experienced foreign language education staff

  • Conduct research

  • Conduct evaluations of school language programs

  • Develop foreign language assessments for preK-8 students

  • Adapt and revise existing language assessments to address specific curriculum goals

  • Design, develop, and conduct language education surveys

  • Conduct language assessment workshops for teachers and school administrators

  • Collect and disseminate information on all aspects of foreign language education

foreign language teaching coverReport From the National K-12 Foreign Language Survey
Learn more about the survey and read the executive summary.

Read the statement from CAL’s Board of Trustees.

Order online at the CAL Store.

Featured Projects

Click on each title to learn more:

Directory of Foreign Language Immersion Programs in U.S. Schools

Foreign Language Assessment Directory

Understanding Assessment: A Guide for Foreign Language Educators

National K – 12 Foreign Language Survey

National Capital Language Resource Center

Learn more about CAL projects

Publications and Resources

CAL has a variety of publications and resources related to foreign language education. Learn more.

CAL Digests Logo
Download our newest digests:

Assessment Literacy for Language Educators

Oral Proficiency Assessment: The Use of Technology in Test Development and Rater Training.

Browse our collection of free downloadable digests related to foreign language education.