Module GERM2021: German Language 2A

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (German)

GERM2021: German Language 2A

Prerequisites

• German Language 1A (GERM1011) or equivalent.

Corequisites

• At least one additional level 2 module in German Studies

Excluded Combination of Modules

• German Language 2B (GERM2152)

Aims

• To improve and expand linguistic competencies (oral, written and aural).
• To improve students' written, oral and aural skills, expanding on the foundation of grammatical and syntactical accuracy consolidated at Level 1, so as to explore more sophisticated modes of verbal expression and a variety of linguistic registers.
• To expand knowledge of the culture of the countries in which the target language is spoken, and to stimulate intercultural awareness.

Content

• Study of a series of specific topics which are the focus for discussion, writing and interpreting exercises.
• The module is based on material from a variety of topics of intercultural or specific cultural interest.
• The topics are explored orally in a number of different ways: debate, exposition, free discussion etc.
• Written assignments consolidate vocabulary and require students to pay more attention to formal features of the language.
• The interpreting hours teach students a range of pragmatic approaches to comprehension and expression in English and German.
• The teaching and resources in this module reflect a commitment to linguistic and cultural diversity. It positions the richness of the German-speaking world at the core of its syllabus.

Learning Outcomes

• A greater understanding of:
• modern German life and culture through a variety of discussion topics,
• specific formal features of the German language,
• register and range of expression in the German language

• The module emphasises performance skills, to enhance students’ ability to write and speak German more freely and move more easily between English and German.
• Students will improve their written and oral skills, expanding on the foundation of grammatical accuracy consolidated at Level 1, so as to explore more sophisticated modes of verbal expression and a variety of linguistic registers, appropriate to a level beyond CEFR B2, working towards CEFR C1.

• Students will improve their written and oral skills, expanding on the foundation of grammatical and syntactical accuracy consolidated at Level 1, so as to explore more sophisticated modes of verbal expression and a variety of linguistic registers. Advances in their skills as language learners, their communication and presentation skills, and their ability to organise their own study will help to prepare them for the Year Abroad.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Regular formatively assessed practice in a variety of written and oral exercises extends linguistic accuracy and verbal manipulation.
• Summative assessment tests competencies acquired in formative practice, including appropriateness of language (register and idiom) and range of language (lexis and structures).

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Formative assessment for this module will include a combination of self-assessed, peer-assessed and tutor-assessed exercises during the year.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University