Introduction to German Studies
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MLAC1116 | Modern Languages and Cultures | 1 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- MLAC1116
- School
- Modern Languages and Cultures
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This is the core module for first-year students of German. We look at the history of German and introduce you to the linguistic study of the language. We also explore a range of themes and styles in German literature linked to key areas of German and Austrian culture (such as gender relations, migration and race).
Further topics address the study of German film, and German history with a focus on recent history since German reunification in 1990. The module gives you an insight into the different areas we teach and also the skills to explore these areas in more depth in subsequent modules.
Target Students
Only available for students who are studying German 1 or German 1 Beginners OR Exchange students with a good knowledge of German.
Co-requisites
Modules you must take in the same academic year, or have taken in a previous year, to enrol in this module:
Classes
- One 1-hour seminar each week for 20 weeks
- One 1-hour lecture each week for 20 weeks
Assessment
- 50% Coursework 1: Assessed essay 1400-1600 words, Autumn semester
- Coursework 2: Formative essay 900-1000 words, Autumn semester
- 50% Exam 1 (1-hour-30-minute): 1.5 hrs exam in the Spring semester
Assessed in both autumn & spring semest
Educational Aims
This module aims to introduce students to the full range of disciplines which constitute German Studies in the UK.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding:
- Students will develop a critical understanding of the key aspects of German Studies (A2, A3, A5, A6).
Intellectual skills:
- Students will develop their skills in gathering and evaluating information from a range of primary and academic sources (B1), assessing evidence and arguments (B2) and apply concepts and methods appropriate for the relevant academic disciplines (B5-7).
Professional practical (i.e. linguistic) and transferable skills:
- Students will improve their ability to read German at a high level of complexity (C3).
- Students will also their skills of reading and interpretation, their essay writing skills.
- They will develop their ability to weigh up and present arguments orally and in writing in English (D1, D2);
- to work independently and in groups (D3, D4) whilst assessing their own progress, strengths and weaknesses (D6).
- Students will be expected to organise and manage working time, schedule tasks and meet deadlines (D7) and to write and think productively under pressure (under examination conditions; D5).