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Read signs (on the street, in buildings and vehicles)
Make telephone calls
Simple descriptions
Write simple notes, messages
All language use is tied to culture, but that is particularly true in this
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section. We debated about functions like "read signs," where the functional
component of this knowledge has as much to do with knowing where to look (for
street signs, for instance) as it does with language knowledge. Similarly,
knowing that it is essentially mandatory to bring a gift when one goes visiting is
hardly linguistic. As ACTFL before us, we spent some time trying to concoct
ways to deal with cultural knowledge, but decided that we could only urge that
such knowledge be included whenever appropriate throughout the language
program. Rather than attempt to create a separate section, we have opted to
slip cultural items in where appropriate and remind teachers of the importance
of raising student awareness and beginning the process of familiarizing them
with learning how to understand what they observe and the reactions they
engender.
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