Common European Framework of Reference: Learning, Teaching, Assessment: Level B2-C1

The emphasis in this course for advanced learners of German lies with cultural themes and intercultural differences. Grammar units are covered in the course but receive less direct consideration than in the other courses. Students are expected to handle independently selected cultural themes, the results of which may be presented in form of a lengthier oral presentation.

In that the course takes place in Germany, students should fully take advantage of their German-speaking surroundings and make use of the multitude of language and cultural resources provided to them, which they do not have while studying in their home country. For example, this requires students to compile and hold interviews on particular political or cultural themes. Moreover, students may be asked to analyze German newspaper articles or televised news reports.

Students should be able to understand for the most part authentic language materials such as films or newspaper articles. Grammatical structures will be handled as they appear in authentic texts (i.e. newspaper article, film, etc.) In addition, students should be demonstrate a fluent oral expression od ideas and opinions and may be asked by the instructor to present them in form of an oral report.

Based on the Common European Framework of Reference, by the end of the course, the student should be able to understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning. The student should be able to express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. The student should be able to use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. In addition, he/she can produce clear, well-structured, detailed texts on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.