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This course is designed for students who have had German
102 or the equivalent. The main goal of GER 201 is to learn German
at an intermediate-low level. We will focus on listening and reading
comprehension, speaking, writing, and cultural literacy. The course
is the third in a four-course program. By the end of the semester,
you should be able to understand and contribute to conversations on
concrete and predictable topics related to personal information, like
yourself and family, daily activities and personal preferences. However,
you will also start to be familiar with more abstract topics related
to social, cultural or historical themes covered in the textbook.
You will also be able to read a variety of texts at the intermediate-low
level, and you will begin to express your opinions in writing.
In the intermediate sequence of classes at Purdue,
we use a communicative-based approach to language learning. This recognizes
that we gain the ability to communicate in a language both through
exposure to the language and active practice
in and review of the language. The course focuses
on providing as much input in German as possible through various means—from
the teacher, classroom activities, audio, the internet, and video.
To achieve the goals of the course requires regular
practice with the language, both in class and individually, and a
willingness to experiment with new patterns of sounds and words, much
of which can only be done in the classroom in communication with others.
Thus, you are responsible for much of your own learning: your continuous
participation and regular attendance are a vital part of your commitment
to learning and progress. The quality of language learning will depend
largely on the amount and quality of your effort.
Course Coordination You should feel free to discuss any individual concerns
or questions related to this course with the course coordinator:
Professor John Sundquist
SC 170
sundquistATpurduDOTedu
Required Texts:
• Kontakte. A Communicative Approach. 5th edition. 2004. Tracy
D. Terrell, Erwin Tschirner, Brigitte Nikolai. McGraw-Hill. (available
at Follett’s and University bookstores)
• Arbeitsbuch to accompany Kontakte 5th edition, 2004.
• Neuer Wein und Zwiebelkuchen: A Cultural Reader. Rasma
Lazda-Cazers and Helga Thorson. 2005. McGraw-Hill. ISBN: 0073012521
(online reader)