Introductory description

The emphasis of the module will be on improving the following skills:
Communicating more effectively in German, in situations ranging from informal conversation to a formal interview or presentation
Understanding extended speech (presentations, news reports, lectures...) and films in standard German
Reading and understanding articles in German and a varied range of fictional and non-fictional passages
Gaining practice in writing essays in German
Facilitating students’ self-awareness of strengths and weaknesses in order to improve their learning skill

Prior knowledge of German
B2 of CEFR (Common European Framework for Reference)
or a high grade A level
or equivalent in International Baccalaureate
or Language Centre German 4 or Intermediate 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.

Skill-based:
Listening comprehension on a variety of topics appropriate to the level
Reading comprehension on a variety of topics appropriate to the level
Written practice on a variety of topics appropriate to the level
Oral practice on a variety of topics appropriate to the level.

Activities will be centred on literary and non-literary texts on topics such as:

• work and study
• aspects of German history
• culture and politics
• people and environment
  Students will also be encouraged to read regularly magazines and newspapers to keep up to date with events in Germany and German-speaking countries.

Grammar
Consolidation of major elements, such as:

• Imperfect of verbs
• Passive voice
• Subjunctive (Konjunktiv I/II)
• Extended Participle Structures

This syllabus is for indicative purposes only and will be updated regularly to remain relevant.

Learning outcomes

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

• Develop an appreciation of literary and non-literary texts
• Develop competence in a broad range of complex and non-routine language tasks across a wide and often unpredictable variety of contexts
• Consolidate and expand grammatical and syntactical competence
• Become more proficient in using a wider range of register and style both in speaking and writing
• Further awareness and appreciation of German culture
• Demonstrate self-awareness of strengths and weaknesses in order to improve learning skills

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 seminars which engage in scholarship in the field.
Strategies for understanding gist and specific information
Intercultural competence
Strategies to communicate effectively both in writing and orally in German

Transferable skills

Problem solving
Self-awareness
Communication
Teamwork
Digital literacy
Sustainability
Ethical values
Intercultural awareness
Professionalism
Critical thinking