What is our focus in German language arts this year?

Language Conventions (Grammar and Spelling)

- correct verb conjugation

- correct use of present (Präsens) and past tense (Perfekt)

- distinction between "ie" and "ei"

- capitalization of nouns

- use of adjectives and correct adjective endings

- correct use of prepositions

- auxiliary verbs (müssen, können, sollen, wollen dürfen); word order when using these verbs in a sentence

Writing:

- establish central idea, include supporting facts and details

- edit and revise drafts to improve coherence and progression, assure correct grammar and spelling and provide sufficient details

Listening and Speaking:

- retell, paraphrase and explain what has been read or said

- tell or retell stories by providing a beginning, middle and end including concrete details that develop a central idea

- organize ideas around major points of information

- improve presentation skills: speak clearly and at an appropriate pace

What do we like our students to know by the end of this year?

-emphasize asking and responding in complete sentences using correct structure and grammar

- create multi-paragraph composition (introduction, establish central idea, include facts and details, summarize the point)

- summarize multi-paragraph texts and stories (Buchreport/Buchposter)

- complete reading comprehension quizzes on ANTOLIN without outside help

How parents can help students at home

- show your personal interest in the language and culture

- attend local German events

- allow your children computer time to research the country and culture

(some good websites can be found under the Play, Read and Watch links on the top of the web page.

- check out books/DVD’s in the library; get audio books at the book fair!

- check teacher’s website regularly

- listen to German music as a whole family

- have your child teach you everyday words (e.g. around your house)