New method for teaching French 'explodes' in popularity

A new method of teaching French that begins by focusing on sign language is becoming more and more popular among Canadian teachers.

AIM (Accelerated Integrated Method) is a quick-paced method being used by 3500 teachers throughout the country, in every province except Newfoundland.   The approach, which has been developed by Matt and Wendy Maxwell of Bowen Island, B.C., begins with about 700 key words, "heavy on the verbs", with hand gestures to go with each word.  A parallel program for teaching English is currently under development in Quebec.

It will be interesting to watch for studies concerning the effectiveness of AIM.  Teachers' reports so far are positive.