There are three major "mainstream" methods of language teaching:

1) "grammar-translation" - heavy on intellectual understanding of language rules, mechanical manipulation of forms, and close conversion from one language to the other; deemphasizes or ignores the spoken language, the modern culture; many teachers teach this way, and many students expect to be taught this way, because they know of no others;

2) "audio-lingual" - heavy on spoken repetition of aural language, with emphasis on parrot-like accuracy of accent and intonation (often associated with "language labs"); de-emphasizes culture, intellectual understanding of grammar, writing, and actual comprehension;

3) "communicative competence" (or "proficiency-oriented") - heavy on speaking and listening, but attention also to reading and writing as long as they are used for realistic communication; de-emphasizes intellectual understanding of grammar; discourages attempts at direct translation; view language and culture as closely connected.

First-year German instruction at PSU is based on communicative competence (see "course goals"). The language is modeled and used for real-world-like communication. Classroom time is precious, so much of it is devoted to speaking, with as much preparation - including study of grammar and imitation of models - moved to study outside of class. The materials are rich in multimedia, both for the sake of delivering knowledge of the culture, and because the multimedia are rich in language.

Testing and grading correspond to the course goal. You will be judged on what you can do with the language, not what you claim to know about it, not on what you can explain but cannot actually use in real time.

If you wish to discuss the course methodology more, email Dr. Fischer.

email Dr. Fischer immediately so that we can work out a solution to your placement situation.