Content-Based Instruction for Foreign Language Classrooms

Content-based instruction (CBI) is a communicative approach to language teaching that is growing in popularity in both government and academic foreign language cides. The authors define CBI as a curriculum that 1) is based on subject matter, 2) utilizes authentic materials, 3) promotes the learning of new information, and 4) considers specific students' needs. Examples of CBI programs are provided. The Russian and Spanish CBI programs at the Foreign Service Institute are discussed in depth. Readers are requested to share their CBI experience with the authors.