Advanced Creative Expression in German writing (305-0-20)
Instructors
Franziska Lys
847/491-8298
1880 Campus Drive, Kresge Hall, Rm 3317
Meeting Info
Kresge Centennial Hall 2-430: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM
Overview of class
This course focuses on reviewing and introducing grammar concepts on the B2/C1 levels as well as encouraging and facilitating the review and acquisition of intermediate- and advanced-level vocabulary in German through explicit vocabulary exercises. The aim is to engage students in actively thinking about word meanings, the relationships among words, and how we can use words in different situations. While we will be working through grammar explanations and grammar exercises quite frequently, we will read, discuss, and write about a series of German children's books, selected not only for the quality of the language but for the themes and illustrations to engage students in class. Topics will include early moralistic and educational stories, stories about developing self-confidence and strength to be able to exist in the adult world, stories about life on Earth and whether it is threatened, stories that deal sensitively with the topics of homosexuality and rainbow families, phantasy stories, and stories about children with different cultural backgrounds and their difficulties to fit in. These German children stories offer us a rich array of genres and themes to write about using sophisticated ways of expressing ourselves in German.
Students will have a chance to write a unique children's story using generative artificial intelligence tools as a thinking partners. Interacting with ChatGPT in German, students will engage in informal and low-stakes writing-to-learn activities to help them think through ideas and key concepts for their stories, as well as to learn new vocabulary, expressions, and language patterns. Previous research has shown that generative artificial intelligence tools can provide both explicit and implicit learning situations that focus on vocabulary development and grammar in a meaning-focused context.
Registration Requirements
Two courses in German on the 200-level or B2 (high-intermediate / advanced low skills) in reading, writing, and speaking
Learning Objectives
1. Students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in advanced German grammar concepts through regular exercises and explanations, applying these concepts accurately in both written and spoken German.
2. Students will acquire and effectively use intermediate- and advanced-level German vocabulary, engaging in explicit vocabulary exercises and incorporating new words into their writing and discussions.
3. Students will read and analyze a variety of German children's books, discussing themes, language quality, and illustrations. They will critically engage with topics such as morality, self-confidence, environmental issues, diversity, and inclusion.
4. Students will write their own children's stories in German, utilizing generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas, develop key concepts, and enhance their vocabulary and language patterns.
5. Students will explore and reflect on cultural themes presented in the children's books, developing an understanding of different cultural backgrounds and the challenges of fitting in, and expressing these insights through sophisticated German language use.
Class Materials (Required)
Class Material will be posed on CANVAS.
Class Attributes
Advanced Expression