Introductory description

This module will give students the chance to spend some time learning and reinforcing the basics of the German language. It will offer an opportunity for students not specialising in foreign languages to improve their communicative competence in German as a supplement to their studies in other spheres. For those students intending to travel to Germany or German-speaking countries, either for study or on work placements, the module can work as a refresher and promote confidence-building for communicating with native speakers abroad.

Prior knowledge of German
A2 of CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference)
or a high grade in GCSE or equivalent
or equivalent in International Baccalaureate
or Language Centre German 2 or Beginners Accelerated
or equivalent

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Topics
German-speaking countries and people
work
cultures, traditions and customs
leisure
sport
Grammar:
adjective endings
comparative and superlative
passive voice
word order
relative clauses

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• To enter unprepared into conversation, describe experiences and events and give reasons for opinions
• To produce text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest
• To understand the main points on matters regularly encountered
• To understand texts dealing with descriptions of events and feelings, and with work-related language
• To apply knowledge of grammar appropriate to the level

International

All modules delivered in SMLC are necessarily international. Students engage with themes and ideas from a culture other than that of the UK and employ their linguistic skills in the analysis of primary materials from a non-Anglophone context. Students will also be encouraged to draw on the experiences of visiting exchange students in the classroom and will frequently engage with theoretical and critical frameworks from across the world.

Subject specific skills

This module will develop students’ linguistic skills through engaging with primary materials in the target language. It will build students’ capacity to engage with aspects of modern language culture through analysis of this primary material and through seminar discussion aimed at deeper critical thinking. In particular, students’ awareness of German will be enhanced through lectures and seminars which engage in scholarship in the field.
The module will develop strategies for understanding gist and specific information and will enhance intercultural competencies.
Strategies for understanding gist and specific information
Strategies to communicate effectively both in writing and orally in German

Transferable skills

Written and spoken communication. Intercultural competencies.
Communication skills: writing and oral presentation, defending one’s point of view.
Organisational skills: independent work, time management.
Interpersonal skills: flexibility, adaptability and the ability to work with others.
Digital skills