German

We use a communicative and multi-skill approach to language learning, ensuring that students will be able to communicate effectively whilst at the same time developing an awareness of grammatical structures. We encourage our students at all levels to access a range of extension materials in order to support independent learning.

KEY STAGE 3

In Years 7-9, lessons contain a wide variety of activities. The students learn to describe themselves and their families, their interests, daily routine, their environment and talk about and prepare visits to German-speaking countries.  They also learn to use different time frames describing past holidays and activities and future plans.  The students have the opportunity to watch a German play and have access to a wide range of authentic materials such as magazines and graded readers. We offer our girls the opportunity to establish pen-friend links with our partner school in Trier and participate in a five-day visit to the Rhineland.

GCSE

Students continue to develop their comprehension and communication skills as well as their awareness of grammatical structures. They regularly practise their speaking skills with the German Assistant and are encouraged to participate in the Year 10 exchange to Trier. The girls also gain an insight into the culture and civilisation of German speaking countries through extra-curricular clubs and societies.

These are photographs that were taken during the girls exchange trip to Trier.

SIXTH FORM

At Sixth Form level, we aim to equip our students to communicate confidently, imaginatively and accurately and to develop a keen awareness of contemporary society, culture and current affairs. The students study a range of topics as well as literature.  They have regular grammar and conversation lessons and are encouraged to explore current issues and individual areas of interest with the help of newspapers, magazines, TV, websites and films.

We encourage our Sixth Form students to take part in our work experience exchange with the Auguste Viktoria Gymnasium Trier or to visit a German-speaking country for as long as possible.  We continue to promote competitions and opportunities for our students to go abroad.  In recent years, two Year 13 girls participated in a Popkultur festival organised by the Goethe Institut, a Year 12 student won a place on a two-week course in Germany and a Year 10 student enjoyed a 4 day Rhineland trip.

Click here to read an account of the Year 12 work experience trip to Trier

Click to download the attached file(s):
• German_Pupil_Course_in_Kaarst_3.pdf