Syllabus.pdf

German GM301 C1 course at Bard College Berlin, Spring 2022, aims to develop advanced communicative competence in German. The course meets Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 2:00-3:30 pm, in room P98, Seminar Room 3. Instructor Vincent Hessling requires two textbooks: Aspekte neu C1, Teil 1 and Teil 2. The course focuses on refining expression of ideas, developing strategies for understanding spoken and written discourse, and achieving grammatical, lexical, and cultural accuracy. Classroom interaction is in German, and active participation is crucial. Students are expected to spend at least 12 hours a week on homework and practice. The course follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, aiming for the B2 Vantage level, where students can understand complex texts, interact with native speakers, and produce clear, detailed texts. Attendance is mandatory, with excused absences allowed for illness, religious observance, or other compelling circumstances. Unexcused absences will lower the final grade, and seven unexcused absences will result in automatic failure. The course includes bi-weekly tests and essay assignments, with two in-class essays, and a final exam during completion week.