LA1PG2-IWLP German 2

Module Provider: Languages and Cultures
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: LA1PG1 or equivalent
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: GM1L3 Advanced German Language I and GM2L4 Advanced German Language II and GM3L6 Advanced German Language III and GM1L1A Beginners' German Language I and GM1L1B Beginners' German Language II and LA1PG1 IWLP German 1 and LA1PG3 IWLP German 3 and LA1PG4 IWLP German 4
Current from: 2020/1

Email: w.l.hillier@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module is intended for students with an entry level of CEF (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A1 or equivalent. On successful completion of the module students will have achieved CEF A2/A2+.

This module aims to build on a previously acquired basic knowledge of German. 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:

This module aims to enable students to:

- communicate in German in straightforward, everyday situations in a German-speaking country;

- build on and expand their existing competence in basic German grammar and vocabulary in order to communicate and understand in a wider range of situations than at Stage 1;

- develop their knowledge of German-speaking countries and people;

- develop their understanding of language learning strategies;

- develop strategies for coping with unpractised linguistic, social and cultural situations.

Assessable learning outcomes:

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

• Communicate in German by speaking at a fairly simple 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 texts on a variety of everyday topics including obtaining specific details;


• Use a range of German vocabulary as required wit hin the topics covered,  and further improve skills in using sources of vocabulary;


• Understand a variety of passages, conversations and announcements when spoken by sympathetic native and non-native speakers of German;


• Use the most important grammatical structures of the language for their level competently in both speaking and writing.

Additional outcomes:

Students will be involved in regular group activities such as role playing and will gain experience in simple oral presentations and joint activities. They will make progress through developing skills of self-study and application and will develop an awareness of and sensitivity to a foreign culture.

Outline content:
Students will learn:-

- to discuss topics of personal interest;
- to express and justify simple opinions orally and in writing;
- to make simple arrangements and transactions in a social and practical context;
- to develop greater fluency and complexity of expression.

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 and, where appropriate, online resources. The module is taught as far as possible in the target lan guage. 

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% for PGT students.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-sit in August/September examinations period, on the 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: 4 April 2020