Language With A Purpose: Using Authentic Materials in the Foreign Language Classroom

ABSTRACT In order for students to learn to communicate effectively in a foreign language, they must experience the language as it is used for real communication by native speakers. Inclusion of authentic materials in the instructional process addresses this need. In this article the authors suggest criteria by which resources can be selected and activities developed. Examples of exercises based on video, audio, and print media materials in French and Spanish are provided, in addition to a selected bibliography on the topic.