LA1PG1-IWLP German 1

Module Provider: International Study and Language Institute
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: LA1PG2 IWLP German 2 LA1PG3 IWLP German 3 LA1PG4 IWLP German 4 GM1L3 Advanced German Language I GM2L4 Advanced German Language II GM1L1A Beginners' German Language I GM1L1B Beginners' German Language II GM3L6 Advanced German Language III
Current from: 2019/0

Email: s.l.payne@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module is intended for beginners with little or no knowledge of German. On successful completion of the module students will have achieved CEF (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) Level A1/A1+.

This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the German language, concentrating on its communicative use in everyday situations. It will develop the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing.

This module is taught at level 4 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. Reading University allows students from any year to take this module.

Students will identify and use relevant understanding, methods and skills to address problems that are well defined but complex and non-routine. In language learning this means acquiring knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, developing strategies for learning and practising the language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, in order to communicate within defined situations while developing tools to enable students to respond to unexpected occurrences.

Students will exercise autonomy and judgement by developing independent learning skills. They will gain understanding of different perspectives and cultural differences in approaching a variety of situations.

Support is given and adjustments are made for students with disabilities. However, IWLP language modules are communicative in nature and students are required to work in small groups. Also, students should be aware that spelling, grammar and sentence structure are assessed. In this respect the IWLP assessment is exempted from the University’s requirement to take specific learning difficulties into account when marking. For queries, contact iwlp@reading.ac.uk.

Aims:

The module aims to enable students to:

• communicate at survival level in typical situations met by visitors when travelling in German-speaking countries;


• develop a competence in basic German grammar and vocabulary in order to communicate and understand at survival level;


• develop an understanding of the nature of language and language learning;


• gain an insight into aspects of everyday life in Germany. 

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students will be able to:

• communicate in German by speaking at a simple survival level about a selection of defined everyday topics;


• communicate in German in writing about a selection of defined everyday topics and within a defined range of genres;


• read and understand simple texts on a variety of everyday topics including obtaining specific details from signs, notices, short texts, etc.;


• use a range of basic German vocabulary and acquire skills in using sources of vocabulary;


• understand simple passages, conversations and announcements when spoken by sympathetic native- and non-native speakers of German;


• recognise and apply basic grammatical structures in both speaking and writing.

Additional outcomes:

Students will be involved in regular group activities such as role playing to develop oral skills. They will make progress through developing skills of independent learning and application and will develop an awareness of and sensitivity to a foreign culture.

Outline content:

The module will introduce the language and communicative situations of selected areas of life relevant to visiting Germany: personal information, food, accommodation, travel, shopping etc. A solid linguistic foundation will be ensured by the study of grammar and vocabulary, presented in context in an accessible and engaging way.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The course provides a systematic approach to acquiring essential vocabulary and grammar structures in a communicative context. Teaching methods are based on interactive language development tasks, such as group work and role playing, and include the study of short texts, oral development work and listening comprehension exercises. Learning activities are supported by various media such as audio, video and, where appropriate, online resources. The module is taught as far as possible in the target language.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Final Written exam (Reading and Writing) – 40% (2 hours)

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Autumn Term Week 10 – Foundation Test 15% (one hour)

Spring Week 11 – In-class test – Listening test = 15% (45 minutes)

Summer Week 2 – Oral exam = 30% (10 minutes)

Formative assessment methods:

Work which provides opportunities to improve performance (e.g. through feedback provided) but which does not necessarily always contribute towards the overall module mark: In order to consolidate and develop their language learning, students are encouraged to complete regular tasks – in class and outside – on which feedback is provided.

Penalties for late submission:

Assessment requirements for a pass:
Min. 40% overall for UG students, 50% overall for PGT students.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-sit in August/September examinations period on basis of examination only (relative percentages: oral examination 40%, written paper 60%).

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Students will be required to purchase the course book (approx. £30).

Last updated: 10 September 2019