German: Oral Proficiency with Phonetics and Culture Studies I

The aim of the course is for students to develop basic skills in speaking and understanding German as well as to acquire a good pronunciation and good skills in expressing themselves in German. The students will also acquire basic knowledge of culture and society in German-speaking countries.
Upon completion of the course, students shall be able to:

• interact orally in different situations and authentic contexts
• identify the basic differences between Swedish and German pronunciation and reflect on pronunciation phenomena in their own language learning and that of others
• demonstrate knowledge of history, geography and social life in German-speaking countries, and make comparisons with their own experiences as well as reflect on cultural issues
• implement and consider shorter oral and written presentations of current and familiar topics, and use different presentation methods
• use and apply modern information technology
• comment on and discuss the content and language of different German-language films
• reflect on their own learning and that of others.

The course includes a review of elementary phonetics and the principles of German pronunciation. It includes exercises in understanding German speech and in communicating in German in different situations and on different subjects. Great importance is placed on actively practising the vocabulary and phraseology related to everyday situations. The cultural element includes a comprehensive introduction to the  history, geography and social life of German-speaking countries. By examining and discussing current social issues, the students get further oral practice and cultural contrastive reflections are also made based on the students‘ own cultural background.

The course is examined continuously through active participation in seminars and written assignments.

Lectures, obligatory seminars and group exercises.

The Swedish grades U–VG.

To receive the grade of VG for the whole course, students require VG in at least 4 credits.

Reporting of grades:
Module 1: Oral Proficiency - 2 cr
Module 2: Culture Studies - 3.5 cr
Module 3: Phonetics - 2 cr

Replaces TY1035.

Equality aspects are to be considered in the content, literature, teaching and evaluation. The course will also raise awareness about and problematize sustainable development.