This study describes the usefulness of a simulation, MARRIAGE AND FAMILY, in helping newly arrived international students adjust to the academic demands of university life. It outlines various phases of the simulation. The narrative regarding its implementation in the classroom demonstrates how well many international students adapt to the value that the American educational system puts on creativity when placed in the context of a simulation. The responses of the students provide evidence for the conclusion that MARRIAGE AND FAMILY helps students develop communicative competence as well as adjust to the American academic culture.
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