Expectations:
The German 1 class introduces the students to a new language. Most of the students haven't studied a foreign language yet and therefore have to adjust to a completely different style of learning.
I expect my students to study on their own on a regular basis. Since we are teaching on a block schedule, students have to invest much more time into each subject. For foreign languages that means you have to study a certain amount of vocabulary in half the time
Requirements:
The German 1 class follows the textbook Komm Mit 1. This book not only presents chapters and exercises (click here to find additional exercises on the net), with its Grammar overview in the back of the book it is a great studying tool for the students. This book, a 3-ring binder, a pencil, and a pen are required for each day in class.
Class work:
To accomplish the basics of the German 1 class requirements (3 tenses (Präsens, Perfekt, Futur 1), basic vocabulary, strong/weak verbs, 3 cases (Nominativ, Akkusativ, Dativ), sentences, questions, word-order, we will have to work on a fast pace.
Example week::
Day 1: new vocabulary, vocabulary-games/exercises, grammar sections, introduction and exercises
Day 2: review new material, skits, dialogues, listening activities...
Day 3: review, exercises, Quiz. Additional material, new vocabulary...
Day 4: work on a project (or portfolio), work with TV-Skits, learn about German culture, presentations
Day 5: Finishing part 2 (of 3) of the chapter, review/quiz
Each chapter is divided into 3 sections. Each section will be tested with a quiz (almost every 2nd/3rd day) and after 7/8 days the class should be ready for the chapter test.
Grading
It is expected that each student participates actively in class. The participation is an important grade in my class. How do I grade participation?
a) Review: the students are expected to review the material of the day in the afternoon, to be able to participate the following day. I give a grade based on their performances in Q and A sessions, pop - quizzes and my overall assessment of their class related activities.
b)The students will be graded on the quantity and quality of their work in class (written assignments, questions and answers...)
Grading percentage:
Tests: 25% Quizzes: 25 % Participation: 25%, Portfolio: 15%, Project: 10%