German

Studying German

The German Department aims to provide a learning environment in which the pupil can both enjoy language learning and find intellectual stimulation. Specifically we aim to develop fluency and accuracy in the four main skill areas of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. The course is designed to develop pupils’ appreciation of the structure of the language and their awareness of European citizenship, German culture and the possibility of working in a German-speaking environment. Additionally, we support their acquisition of study skills which apply across the curriculum.

German in the Lower School

All pupils learn German in the first three years and we assume no prior knowledge of the language from First Years. They have three hours per two-week cycle, one of which is based in a language laboratory. Pupils engage in a variety of activities: practising role play dialogues, listening to digitised material at their own pace, creating documents that exploit the vocabulary learned and also visiting language websites to further their knowledge. Lower School pupils are introduced to all the topics that they will encounter at GCSE level and are thus prepared for a confident start to the course in Middle School.

Our Curriculum

A variety of topics are used as the starting point for exploring grammar and expanding vocabulary. Whilst the topics used to convey points of grammar and vocabulary vary across the year groups, there is a core set of skills which we seek to instil in all pupils. These include oral confidence: answering and asking questions; role play and working with others; pronunciation and intonation.

Reading and listening skills are honed through comprehensions, both in terms of the article's general gist but also its details. We teach dictionary skills and the manipulation of source materials, and encourage attention to detail.

Trips, Clubs and Activities

Fifth Form pupils are able to participate in the German Exchange Programme to Bad Segeberg and Sixth Formers may take part in a study visit to Berlin. In addition, the Film Club organises visits to German plays and films, the latter usually being shown at the Cornerhouse in Manchester.