Refines basic command of the language, emphasizing written and oral expression. Materials include historical and autobiographical texts that acquaint students with German history and culture from 1900 to the present. Discussion of social, cultural, and political questions central to the development of modern Germany.
Athena Title
Lang Culture and Society I
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in GRMN 3015
Prerequisite
GRMN 2002 or GRMN 2110 or GRMN 2140H
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall and spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the development of Modern Germany, from the beginning of the Third Reich to the present.
Students will express informed knowledge and opinions about principal elements of German culture and society in spontaneous discussion.
Students will distinguish differences and similarities between elements of German and US history, government, economy, society, and everyday life.
Students will utilize intermediate to advanced language skills, in particular writing, grammar review, and conversation in the context of Modern German History.
Students will speak and write in German at the intermediate to advanced level (ACTFL Intermediate Mid/High to Advanced Low, CEFR B1.1 to B2/C1).
Students will communicate effectively in small groups and individually in presentations about historical and contemporary issues in Germany.
Topical Outline
Weeks 1-5: Germany's government, democracy, and economy: Germany's constitution, basic rights, political structure, political parties, elections, economy, taxes, important offices for students living and studying in Germany
Weeks 6-11: Modern German history since the Third Reich: Hitler's rise to power, WW II, the Holocaust, resistance against Hitler's regime, Holocaust remembrance and memorials, occupation of Germany by allied forces after WW II, reconstruction, Germany's economic miracle, guest worker program, immigration, GDR history, unification.
Weekes 12-15: contemporary German society, Germany's school and university systems, Germany's apprenticeship system, migration, and current events
