This course is tailored for students taking German who are familiar with elementary structures and vocabulary of German (i.e., for students who have already taken a year of introductory college German or the equivalent). It aims to help you to continue to develop basic and intermediate skills in the core areas of language learning. In addition to the information provided by our textbook Kontakte, you will encounter texts and films designed to expand upon and deepen your knowledge of German language and culture.
This course emphasizes the four primary language skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening) essential for successful second-language acquisition. You will spend most of your time working through materials on your own outside of class, and class sessions are designed to intensify what you have learned through active use of language, such as large-group discussion, partner work, small-group activities, and role-playing. Class will be conducted in German so that you have maximum exposure to the language. We will use a communicative learning approach. As such, communication and interaction are key components for success. You can expect to interact often with your instructor and in groups. Since German will be the primary language used in the class, it is highly recommended that students study the material, memorize vocabulary, and complete homework assignments thoroughly before class meetings.
Achieving these goals requires regular practice with the language, both in class and individually, and a willingness to experiment with new patterns of sounds and words, much of which can only be done in the classroom. Participation and daily assignments thus represent a vital part of your commitment to this course and of your grade, absences will be sharply penalized. Lessons will take on various formats such as lecture, group discussion, and partner work. Make sure to submit all assignments on the day and time outlined in Canvas.
By the end of this course, you, the successful student, will have achieved the following objectives:
→ strengthened your passive and active vocabulary in German -
→ learned to read and listen to authentic texts, such as fairy tales, in German with basic understanding -
→ increased your proficiency in spontaneous and prepared speaking and writing situations -
→ improved your ability to understand conversational German -
→ strengthened your existing knowledge of German grammar, including reviewing how to greet others, introduce yourself, and describe things: You will also further practice communicating in both present and past tenses, discuss preferences, accurately discuss the location of animate and inanimate objects, and learn to use adjectives in German -
→ practiced producing and comprehending German speech and text using intermediate vocabulary to discuss and/or compare classroom objects, geography, weather and seasons, family, personal information, food, and emotions. Students will continue to gain understanding of cultures in which German is spoken. They will demonstrate an awareness of some of their customs and geography and will begin to make connections between German, Austrian, and Swiss cultures and their own.
Designed for students who have had first year German or its equivalent in high school, this course reviews first year materials and emphasizes speaking, reading, and writing skills. (Annually) [Graded (Standard Letter)] Prerequisite(s): GERM 1020 - Prerequisite Min. Grade: D- General Education Category: Humanities