GERMAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE

The course includes a theoretical and a practical part. The main objectives are
1. to achieve a level of linguistic competency equivalent to the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR);
2. to develop an understanding of key aspects of German Culture;
3. to acquire basic metalinguistic knowledge of the German language.

The aim of the classes is to bring students to a level of linguistic competency equivalent to the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Detailed learning objectives:
1. Knowledge and comprehension. Knowledge of the German phonological system, lexical formation, verb tenses, and the fundamental sentence structures of the German language.
2. Ability to apply knowledge and comprehension. The metalinguistic competency developed during the module enables students to improve their awareness not only of the language and its use, but also of their own learning process, particularly in relation to the structures and pronunciation of the language and the ways in which it diverges from their mother tongue.
3. Basic knowledge of German culture and history.
4. Capacity for autonomous learning and comparative analysis. Ability to compare the functioning of one's own language with the German language and compare the countries' cultural elements.
5. Communication skills. Thanks to the practical part of the course, development of the four skills required to achieve the B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
6. Ability to synthesize information and document linguistic and cultural knowledge, skills and achievements. Students learn to construct a portfolio they will carry with them throughout their studies which documents their knowledge, skills and ability to learn autonomously.

Students must have an A2 level to enrol in this course.

The course is made of the "main course" and the "practice course". The practice course is given by the University Language Centre (CLA) https://www.unive.it/cla . Students must pass the practice course before sitting the exam for the main course. Further details here: https://www.unive.it/pag/46187/ .
The fundamental structures of the German language.
- the phonological system
- the German lexicon: where it comes from, how it is formed.
- morphology and syntax of the sentence.
- Structure, conjugation and use verb tenses.
Key aspects of the history and culture of Germany.

45 Stunden Deutschland. Orientierungskurs - Politik - Geschichte - Kultur. Klett, Metzingen, Barcelona 2008.
P. Graves, H. Strutz - Learn German the Fast and Fun Way-Barron's Educational Series (2004 or later edition).

The exam of German Language and Culture will be oral, and shall consist in a ppt presentation (max. 10 slides) on a subject dealt with in the book read together during our lectures (also topics not examined but part of the book are admitted). For the oral exam you shall be able to talk on the chosen subject for about 10 minutes.

Methods adopted: frontal teaching. Materials and activities via Moodle.

Tedesco

Tentative syllabus.

oral