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Modern German Language 2

Module Code: GE201
Module Name: Modern German Language 2
 
Timetable by Group
Module Credits: 30

Module Description

The Module is a continuation of GE101 Modern German Language I (post A-level cohort). It aims to refine and extend language skills of modern German developed by students in their first year (post A-level). The module consists of four parts, each with a different emphasis on speaking, essay writing, applying grammar in written and aural contexts ("language in practice"), and translation. Students (since 2018/2019 entry) translate both into and out of German in GE201 and in GE401.

Second year places emphasis on the cultivation of a sensitivity towards language in general, and an awareness of register, semantics and style—in particular, to prepare students for their Year Abroad in their third year. Regular homework and presentation will further encourage students to work independently and assures regular feedback.

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

  • Extract and synthesise key information from written and spoken sources;
  • Organise and present ideas in spoken and written German within the framework of a structured and reasoned argument, using connectors and cohesive devices and relevant supporting details;
  • Express themselves orally with fluency and spontaneity, without much obvious searching for expressions;
  • Use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes;
  • Use circumlocution and paraphrase to cover gaps in vocabulary and structure and display the capacity for self-correction;
  • Recognize different types of written communication; their communicative functions, text types, genres;

  • Analyse the key features of different types of discourse in German and make appropriate language choices in response;

  • Produce a coherent argumentation in written German;
  • Understand standard spoken language, live or broadcast, on both familiar and unfamiliar topics normally encountered in personal, social, academic or vocational life;
  • Understand how the linguistic systems and cultural contexts of English and German are related; Employ a number of techniques to mediate between English and German; Produce an effective translation that contains an equivalent message; Be able to explain and justify translation choices; Demonstrate an enhanced command of English language;
  • Demonstrate increased awareness of the cultural similarities between UK and German-speaking countries;
  • Feel prepared linguistically for the practical issues of their year abroad;
  • Make effective use of language reference materials such as grammars, monolingual and bilingual dictionaries to refine knowledge and understanding of language varieties, register, genre, nuances of meaning and language use;
  • Demonstrate digital literacy through the use of electronic sources of information in English and German;
  • Develop strategies for managing their independent language learning.
  • Demonstrate sensitivity towards language in general, and an awareness of register, semantics and style in particular.

Outline Syllabus and Contacts

Essay: The main objectives are to reflect on German syntax structure and to write more complex sentences. The syllabus is composed of 4 topics which are concerned with current affairs in politics, culture, history, business and society in Germany. The main focus is on composing different texts in German and to learn to reflect and to identify specific grammar points in written German.

Oral: The main objectives are to improve listening and speaking comprehension in German by reading, listening and discussing current affairs in Germany. Further, the aim is to prepare the Year Abroad for both studying and working in Germany. The combination of current affairs in politics, culture, history, society, culture and business as well as the education system, student and work life will offer students the best preparation for your time in Germany.

Translation: Main objectives are to introduce students to a range of texts from literary pieces to web pages and blogs, from business and economics to poetry. Students produce translation from English into German and from German into English. Aims are to encourage students to reflect on the practice of translation, to consider how best to render each text in a way which is both linguistically accurate and sympathetic to the style and context of the original.

Language in Practice: Main objectives are to apply the grammatical knowledge of Modern German Language I to improve German writing by doing practical exercises, as well as to develop aural comprehension. The class will function as an umbrella class to revise and apply grammar knowledge in order to improve on translation and writing. Aims include improving students’ manipulation of German language and listening comprehension, as well as preparing students for the Year Abroad in Germany in Year 3.

Assessment Method:

GE2011: Translation into German and into English (2 hours): 30%

GE2012: Language in Practice: Aural comprehension and grammar (2 hours): 20%

GE2013: Essay (2 hours): 30 %

Oral exam (15 minutes): 20%

Teaching Staff 21/22

Essay-Writing: Birgit Oehle, Nora Michaelis

Conversation: Nora Michaelis, Birgit Oehle

Translation: Ian Roberts

Language-in-Practice: Susan Beardmore, Nora Michaelis

Moodle Links

Essay

Conversation

Translation

Language-in-Practice