German 1

As the language of numerous influential poets, philosophers, theologians, and authors, German has a significant place in the development of Western culture. In this course, we will begin our journey into the German language, learning its vocabulary and grammar, along with the cultures of the people who speak it. Our focus will be on acquiring vocabulary while discovering the grammar of German through comparison and contrast of language in various contexts. No prior experience with German is necessary.

The instructor will be speaking German for a significant portion of the class and students are encouraged to use as much German as they can to communicate. Students will not always understand everything that is said, but the class will work together to improve comprehension.

Class time will consist of a presentation of vocabulary and grammar in context, a discussion of the topics presented, short conversations with the instructor and classmates, and learning and practicing chants and songs to facilitate learning.

Learning a new language well requires humility, recognizing that we are all learners and that mistakes are part of the learning process; patience, understanding that learning to comprehend and use a language requires time and consistent work; constancy, keeping our focus on mastering the subject; and perseverance, being willing to continue learning and striving for mastery, no matter how difficult the path may be. Hearing and reading the language often, trying it out for yourself as often as possible, and paying close attention to and accepting feedback will help you rapidly improve proficiency in the language.

• Computer: You will need a stable, reliable computer, running with a processor with a speed of 1 GHz or better on one of the following operating systems: Mac OS X with Mac OS 10.7 or later; Windows 8, 7, Vista (with SP1 or later), or XP (with SP3 or later). We do not recommend using an iPad or other tablet for joining classes. An inexpensive laptop or netbook would be much better solutions, as they enable you to plug an Ethernet cable directly into your computer. Please note that Chromebooks are allowed but not preferred, as they do not support certain features of the Zoom video conference software such as breakout sessions and annotation, which may be used by our teachers for class activities.
• High-Speed Internet Connection: You will also need access to high-speed Internet, preferably accessible via Ethernet cable right into your computer. Using Wi-Fi may work, but will not guarantee you the optimal use of your bandwidth. The faster your Internet, the better. We recommend using a connection with a download/upload speed of 5/1 Mbps or better. You can test your Internet connection here.
• Webcam: You may use an external webcam or one that is built in to the computer. Webcam Recommendations: Good (PC only) | Best (Mac and PC)
• Headset: We recommend using a headset rather than a built-in microphone and speakers. Using a headset reduces the level of background noise heard by the entire class. Headset Recommendations: USB | 3.5mm
• Zoom: We use a web conferencing software called Zoom for our classes, which enables students and teachers to gather from around the globe face to face in real time. Zoom is free to download and easy to use. To download Zoom:
  1. Visit zoom.us/download.
  2. Click to download the first option listed, Zoom Client for Meetings.
  3. Open and run the installer on your computer.
  4. In August, students will be provided with instructions and a link for joining their particular class.
• Scanner: In this class, students frequently submit homework assignments by scanning pages from their workbooks. Students and/or their parents should have easy access to a scanner and the ability to use it.