Semester One German  

Learning a foreign language is integral to the Waldorf Curriculum. Through being exposed to different language groups, students begin to absorb knowledge from different cultures and viewpoints, and continue to broaden their understanding and appreciation of the world outside of their own country. Whilst in Primary School, language learning is largely aural, in the High School students begin to grapple with the grammar and written components of language learning. 

Throughout Semester One, both Class Seven and Eight have been building on their aural knowledge of the German language from Primary School. Students frequently surprised themselves with their existing breadth of German vocabulary which both classes began to write down throughout the semester.  

Class 7 

Class Seven reviewed how to count and greet each other, and at the start of each lesson we practice and add to our existing vocabulary bank. Students really enjoy challenging themselves to remember the words and they are becoming ever quicker to identify objects and verbs in German. Towards the end of Term One, we explored a cultural aspect from Germany with a focus on Karneval or Fasching. Students worked in groups to create a visually appealing poster about the celebration, and the many different aspects of this annual event. In Term Two, students enjoyed learning about the German school system and the names for different subjects and objects in the classroom. 

Class 8 

As well as reviewing basic vocabulary, Class Eight were challenged in German this semester by carrying out a range of interactive fortnightly quizzes to test their vocabulary and grammar. Linked to topics such as school and hobbies, Class Eight were introduced to some basic German grammar, and they became familiar with conjugating both regular and irregular present tense verbs. In lessons, students were required to read, speak and listen to a variety of texts. While aspects of German classes have challenged some students, they are beginning to realise that they can write simple sentences, read basic texts and comprehend easy listening activities, which is giving them a sense of achievement in their language learning journey.