This module consolidates and further extends skills acquired in LC German Language Beginners I & II. Most main (remaining) grammatical structures and functions of the language will be dealt with through classroom exercises reinforced by private study. Students will become proficient in a wide range of less predictable and complex situations and functions. Practical language classes will focus on productive and receptive skills helping students to achieve effective communicative competence in even unpredictable situations. Simple texts for translations from German into English and vice versa will be introduced. Wide-ranging aspects of modern Germany will be integrated at appropriate points by using a variety of materials: complex authentic texts, dialogues, short presentations, interviews and semi-authentic radio & TV programmes. In addition, a native speaker of German (ERASMUS student) is paired with a native speaker of English in order to learn each other's language and cultural aspects of their respective home countries.
This pairing aims at developing students’ spoken and written proficiency as well as their intercultural awareness and to support them in the acquisition of independent learning skills. Students will be exposed to a wider range of registers. Students will work collaboratively with a native speaker partner for at least two hours per week. They will be expected to exercise responsibility for the organisation of their own learning (for the Tandem part), including negotiating objectives, time management, monitoring of progress, maintaining contact with their partner and seeking and providing correction. They will be required to sign a learning contract to this effect and to keep a learner diary.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module the student should be able to:
have achieved level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
deal with a range of less predictable language tasks, situations and complex topics
speak with a degree of fluency about semi-complex topics covered in the course
develop debating and discussion skills on semi-prepared complex topics
read and understand authentic articles / texts from a wide variety of sources covering a great range topics
listen to and understand native speakers of German at `normal¿ speed when discussing less predictable topics
discuss and express opinions in writing and speaking on unpredictable topics
deliver an oral presentation in German from notes
write short essays in German expressing complex thoughts
translate simple texts from German into English and vice versa
demonstrate full understanding of complex grammatical issues
work with a selection of authentic German sources and use relevant reference materials