German Advanced Conversation Online (Tues., 5-6pm)
Class
Helia Rethmann
About
Instructor: Helia Rethmann
Objective: This course is for learners at a German proficiency level of CEFR B1 / ACTFL Intermediate High and above. Learners in this class can narrate and describe in all major time frames using connected discourse of paragraph length most of the time. They can converse with ease and confidence when dealing with social situations requiring an exchange of basic information related to their work, recreation, particular interests, and areas of competence. During this course, learners will re-visit “tricky” grammar points and specialty (slang) vocabulary, but the main focus will be on gaining more linguistic ease, confidence, and competence and dealing with social situations with unexpected complications. Learners will practice their speaking skills via interviews, discussions, debates, and role-play and should expect to spend up to three hours a week reviewing materials and preparing talking points for in-class discussion.
Use of the Language: This course has been designed in such a way that most of the class time will be devoted to communication and will be taught in the target language (i.e., the language that you are studying). As you already have some experience with the language, you are encouraged to use the target language as much as possible from Day 1. You are not expected to understand everything, and you can expect to be pushed beyond your comfort zone. However, your instructor is there to make sure you can succeed in meeting the goals of the activities and of the class in general. Our goal is for you to be able to communicate in the target language, and we cannot learn to speak a language without speaking it. Please remember that we learn best by making mistakes, and we encourage you to try to do your best. Don’t forget that your instructor is there to support you in class and is also available via the Matrix messaging system for assistance.
Expectations/Time Commitment: Learners should expect to spend up to three hours a week reviewing materials and preparing talking points for in-class discussion.
Required Materials: Materials will be provided by the instructor.