Special emphasis is on extended conversation and short speeches, and communicating ideas in writing. Written communication is reinforced in a virtual classroom e-mail project with a school in Germany. Reading skills are developed in short stories and narratives. Skill practice relates to themes such as the history of divided and united Germany since 1949, vacation spots, holidays, occupations, science and music.
Emphasis is on practical communication.
Themes include stereotypes, roles of men and women, and ecology. Skill refinement focuses on group problem solving, reading plays and novels, writing compositions and e-mail messages, and listening to contemporary German spoken by a variety of native speakers, to prepare students for college placement tests. German is spoken in class for everyday functions and to discuss new material. The content of German I is practiced in new situations while learning and using new vocabulary and structures. Written communication is developed in an e-mail exchange about topics mutually agreed on by this class and classes in Germany.