German II

DESCRIPTION:
Further concepts of German language and culture. Extended sentence structure and vocabulary used to communicate in everyday situations. Four-skill approach with emphasis on communicative competence. Reading of longer texts. (CEFR-A2)

RATIONALE: 
This is the second course in a three-part series that leads to proficiency in oral and written modern colloquial German. Emphasis is on communicative competence. In longer written and oral expression, students learn to assert themselves in everyday situations. They will be in a position to give information about themselves and their environment and to establish essential social and professional contacts. They will obtain greater insight into the culture and the way of life in German-speaking countries.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
The student who has completed this course will be able to:
1. Demonstrate understanding of the main points of short, clear and simple speech on familiar everyday needs, provided the speech is slowly articulated.
2. Demonstrate understanding of simple sentences and texts containing commonly used vocabulary on familiar topics.
3. Take part in simple routine interactions requiring an exchange of information on familiar matters and activities.
4. Compose short texts related to areas of immediate need using simple phrases and sentences linked with basic connectors.
5. Demonstrate understanding of cultural similarities and differences.

METHODS OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
- Classes encompass all four skills of language learning (i.e. reading and writing, listening and speaking).
- Work in class concentrates on oral communication in German, reading and writing assignments are done mostly as homework.
- Extensive Partner and group work reinforce the communicative aspect.

Classes consist of interactive learning and the instructor is a guide, a source of information, and a facilitator in the learning process.

Activities
- listening activities with audio/video input (in and out of class)
- instructor’s and students’ conclusion and synthesis regarding grammar and syntax
- group and individual writing (in and out of class)
- role plays imitating real life situations
- presentations of basic German socio-cultural aspects
- exercises with the workbooks and with internet sites (mainly out of class)