Intensive German II covers all of second-year German in one semester. The goals of the course are to expand vocabulary beyond the functional, to improve communication skills and cultural awareness, and to solidify and expand upon grammatical structures and syntax to meet the advanced intermediate standards for proficiency. The morning session focuses on building the skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening) through reading, essay writing and classroom discussion on a wide range of topics in German-language culture, history, literature and current events. The afternoon hour is dedicated to the in-depth study and practice of grammar. Students learn to apply correct forms and syntax and to be aware of stylistic nuances even when using the language spontaneously. Through engagement with course materials, including films and other visual and performance texts, and through interaction with teachers and classmates both in formal and informal contexts, students develop speaking, aural comprehension, and writing skills. By the end of the term, students are able to understand the content of texts and lectures of a non-technical nature and of general interest, and to communicate with some ease with a native speaker, in spoken and written language.  Though training for study abroad or work abroad are not course objectives, per se, students are often well qualified to do either after completion of this course. Intensive German II covers all of second-year German in one semester. The goals of the course are to expand vocabulary, to improve communication skills, and to master grammatical structures and syntax to the level of competency that meets advanced intermediate standards for proficiency. One hour of class develops essay writing and oral communication skills, focusing on autobiographical and literary texts about the major events in 20th and 21st Century German cultural history. The other hour is devoted to in depth study and practice of grammar; it is aimed at developing students' ability to apply correct forms and syntax and be aware of stylistic nuances even when using the language spontaneously. Through engagement with course materials, including films and other visual and performance texts, and through interaction with teachers and classmates both in formal and informal contexts, students develop speaking, aural comprehension, and writing skills. By the end of the term, students are able to understand the content of texts and lectures of a non-technical nature and of general interest, and to communicate with some ease with a native speaker, in spoken and written language. Though training for study abroad or work abroad are not course objectives, per se, students are often well qualified to do either after completion of this course.

Course Requirements:

Daily class attendance and active participation are required. Students must attend co-curricular activities (lunch tables and coffee hour) at least three times per week. In order to receive full credit for the course, students must follow attendance rules, show a steady mastery of the material throughout the term, and pass the end-of-term proficiency exam which tests grammar, reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.

Intended Audience:

RCLang 291 is open to all UM students, but priority is given to RC students. Students who place at the 231 or 232 level or have passed RCLANG191/German 102 or 103 are eligible to take this course.

Class Format:

The course is team-taught and meets four times a week, two hours a day.