LN210     
German Language and Society 4 (proficiency)

This information is for the 2024/25 session.

Teacher responsible

Dr Peter Skrandies PEL.6.01f

Availability

This course is available on the MA in Modern History. This course is available as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit. This course is available with permission to General Course students.

This course has a limited number of places (it is capped) and priority will be given to Language Centre BSc students and students from other Departments following a Language Specialism. This course is available as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit and on the MA in Modern History. This course is available with permission to General Course students. All students should seek approval from the teacher responsible before completing course selection. Please see here for information on seeking approval for undergraduate modern language degree courses (https://www.lse.ac.uk/language-centre/undergraduate-degree-courses/degree-courses-as-part-of-an-undergraduate-degree).

Pre-requisites

Completion of the German Language and Society 3 (advanced) (LN110) or equivalent knowledge and skills are required. An interview with the course co-ordinator prior to registration is compulsory.

Course content

Further advanced (up to proficiency) study of the German language within the framework of the social sciences and culture. In a dynamic and communicative way the course develops all four language skills (i.e. speaking, listening, reading and writing) through individual and group work, topical discussions, and the use of authentic multi-media materials. The focus is on accuracy and communication that advance students' language competence, transferable skills and cultural awareness.

Teaching

30 hours of classes in the AT. 30 hours of classes in the WT. 3 hours of classes in the ST.

Three hours per week, which will feature: (a) interactive topical work; (b) oral practice; (c) grammar and vocabulary work; (d) tutorials; and (e) guided study using IT and web-based materials. The course has a reading week in week 6 of the AT and the WT.

Formative coursework

Weekly language exercises

Indicative reading

  • Durrell, Martin (2011) Hammer's German Grammar and Usage, 5th edition, London: Routledge
  • Durrell, Martin at al (2011) Practising German Grammar, 3rd edition, London: Routledge
  • Götz, Dieter et al (2008) Grosswörterbuch Deutsch als Fremdsprache, München: Langenscheidt 

Assessment

Exam (30%, duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes) in the spring exam period.
Oral examination (30%) in the ST.
Continuous assessment (40%) in the AT and WT.

Language courses map to the Common European Framework for Language Learning.  This framework defines linguistic proficiency in the four language skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) at different levels.  To pass this course, students are therefore required to achieve a pass mark in each element of the assessment (continuous assessment, oral and written exams), as these test all four skills.

Key facts

Department: Language Centre

Total students 2023/24: 6

Average class size 2023/24: 6

Capped 2023/24: Yes (16)

Value: One Unit

Guidelines for interpreting course guide information

Course selection videos

Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.

Personal development skills

  • Self-management
  • Team working
  • Problem solving
  • Application of information skills
  • Communication