In Swedish compulsory school, students can choose to study a modern language in addition to English, i.e., French, Spanish, or German. Since 1994, instruction time for modern languages has been extended, the learning objectives have been made more attainable, and national assessment materials have been introduced. The government made these changes…

In the fall of 1973, an experimental college course designed exclusively for students with a background of high school German was initiated at the University of Texas at Arlington. The course was limited to those who placed out of the first semester but not high enough for the third semester on the UTA placement test. The course was found to be…

This article contradicts previous statements by Jack Stein that German literature courses in translation should not be offered by the German department. This paper argues that such courses will not compete with original-language courses, but will provide opportunities to more students to read great works of literature. (CHK)

This article begins with an overview of the literature that establishes the value of sayings in foreign language teaching. It is argued that authors of textbooks should use sayings because they make up such an important part of a language. The most common sayings that should be found in any textbook are listed. (LET)

German as a Foreign Language Philology is a new subject developed at the New Philology Faculty of the University of Heidelberg. Students whose native language is not German can earn a Master of Arts in this field. The study plan, educational goals, and the content and organization of the curriculum are described. (Text is in German.) (TL)

Argues that literature should have a place in the foreign language classroom even at the beginning level. It aids in clarifying vocabulary, grammatical structures and certain cultural idiosyncracies. (Text is in German.) (TL)

Assesses a volume of essays evaluating German studies in the United States. Problems pointed out in the essays include isolation of Germanists; lack of flexibility in choice of syllabi; the place of "culture" in German studies; lack of basic language skills in college students, and language teacher training. (CHK)

Outlines a four-year program of German study aiming to give students a basic ability in spoken and written German, knowledge of German culture, and preparation for advanced German study. Study topics and textbooks are included. (CHK)

Currently some skepticism exists concerning the value of area studies--especially the concept of "national traits." Also, the alleged motivational value may be offset by the sacrifice of language-learning time. German language teaching has followed the U.S. lead; American teachers might profit from German experience. (Text is in German.) (WGA)

Career-related courses in German have focused on scientific German and German for business, and emphasis has been on the training of management-level personnel. Suggestions for instructional programs in German are offered. (SW)

Discusses a threat to the survival of foreign exchange programs. It is asserted that uninspired administrators with eyes fixed on cost-accounting, fund allocations, and educational packaging are looking increasingly at the exchange as a new source of income. (EJS)

Innovations in the German program at this college include (1) an emphasis on Junior Year Abroad for all majors; (2) courses in German literature in English offered to non-German students; (3) a course in translating skills, from German to English, for advanced students. (CHK)