German 1 Honors Course Syllabus
Teacher: Frau (Mrs.) Huber (jessica.huber@nisdtx.org)
Course Description: This course is designed for novice learners who have little to no prior experience with the German language. The class will primarily use comprehensible input techniques to develop students' listening and speaking skills while introducing fundamental aspects of German grammar and vocabulary. Comprehensible input is a central methodology of this course. It's based on the idea that language learning is most effective when students are exposed to language that is just slightly beyond their current level of comprehension, allowing them to gradually internalize the language. In this class, you will be provided with language input that is carefully designed to be understandable, even if you don't fully grasp all the individual words or grammar rules. This approach mimics the way we naturally acquire our first language, making the learning process more intuitive and enjoyable. Our classes will feature a variety of techniques to make input comprehensible, including visual aids, gestures, context-rich scenarios, and simplified language. We will focus on listening and responding as the primary means of language acquisition, and you will have ample opportunities to engage in conversations and other interactive activities. Throughout the course, you'll also gain exposure to essential aspects of German grammar and vocabulary in a way that supports your ability to use the language in practical, real-life situations. This approach will help you build a strong foundation in the German language, enabling you to communicate effectively and confidently.
Grading: Assessment in this class honors the natural progression of language learning from reading, to listening, to writing, and eventually speaking. In a level 1 course, student assessment consists almost entirely of the first two—reading and listening. At the appropriate time in the year, student writing will eventually be assessed.
As per school policy grading will consist of:
Formative Assignments : 40%
Daily Quizzes, Communication Assessments, other assignments
***Much of your student’s formative assessment will come via a rubric that assesses how well the student engaged in the conversation. They must demonstrate their focus with their body language, clarify meaning when confused, and contribute to conversation as much as possible. In the first year language class this grade replaces a speaking grade.
Summative Assignments: 60%
Tests, Projects