Syllabus German
Syllabus German
Syllabus German
CONTENTS
FOREWARD
SECTION I
1. Listening
• Understanding
• Reacting
1
2. Speaking
• Communicating
• Use of Language
• Pronunciation and Intonation
3. Reading
4. Writing
• Text writing
• Text forming
• Use of Language
5. Language Reflection
6. Culture Reflection
1. Listening
2. Speaking
3. Reading
4. Writing
5. Language Reflection
6. Cultural Reflection
2
SECTION II THE SYLLABUS
1.1. Reading
1.2. Listening
1.3. Speaking
1.4. Writing
2. Contents
2.1. Notions
2.3. Topics
i. I and my family
ii. I and my friends
iii. I and my surroundings
3. Textbooks
i. Pupil’s book
ii. Work book
iii Teacher’s book
iv. Cassettes
v. I.T. Material
3
B The Second Level of Knowledge of German -- A2 „Waystage”
1.1. Reading
1.2. Listening
1.3. Speaking
1.4. Writing
2 Contents
2.1. Notions
i. Making contacts
ii. Giving information
iii. Arranging things
iv. Showing attitudes and expressing feelings
2.3. Topics
i. Phonetics
ii. Orthography
iii. Lexis
iv. Grammar
3. Textbooks
i. Pupil’s book
ii. Work book
iii. Teacher’s book
iv Cassettes
v. I.T. Material
4
C The Third Level of Knowledge of German – B1 „ Threshold“
1.1. Reading
1.2. Listening
1.3. Speaking
1.4. Writing
2. Contents
2.1. Notions
2.2. Language Interactivity
i. Making contacts
ii. Giving information
iii. Arranging things
iv. Showing attitudes and expressing feelings
2.3. Topics
i. Phonetics
ii. Orthography
iii. Lexis
iv. Grammar
3. Textbooks
i. Pupil’s book
ii. Work book
iii. Teacher’s book
iv. Cassettes
v. Further reading.
5
SECTION III THE EXAMINATION
A “Fit in German 1”
i. General
ii. Listening comprehension
iii. Reading comprehension
iv. Speaking
v. Writing
6
B “ Fit in German 2”
i. General
ii. Listening comprehension
iii. Reading comprehension
iv. Speaking
v. Writing
7
C MATSEC – “Intermediate” Level -- University of Malta
APPENDICES
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8
FOREWARD
The publication of this document is a significant step in the development of teaching and
learning of the German language and culture in the Maltese state schools. Since the
initial stages of German language teaching in the early seventies, a number of changes
occurred, which show that the inclination to become acquainted with German plays a
very important role in the Maltese way of life.
In their schooling days pupils choose to study German against a choice of another six
languages as well as against other groups of subjects, a choice which takes place twice
within the lifespan of their secondary education. These pupils are provided with an
excellent quality of teachers and learning material, so that their learning of the language
is straightforward, clear and concise and follows the correct direction. The Maltese
society can boast today of a good number of its citizens who are well acquainted with the
language which they use to the benefit of the Maltese nation.
Like any other existing system which works effectively, the method of teaching and
learning the German language has gone through various stages of development, both
within itself and within the national framework of education in Malta. The National
Minimum Curriculum has set the background as well as the aspirations, in the light of
which our pupils choose to study German. In the context of the N.M.C. as embedded in
the future aspirations of our country, a development has occurred in the area of teaching
and learning the German language. The rigid system of stereotyped setting of teaching
materials and related matters, which initially was adhered to till the present day, has
developed into a more flexible atmosphere and surroundings within which the pupil is
given all support necessary to learn the German language. The benefits of autonomous
learning have sadly never been fully explored before. However, the increasing amount of
autonomy and empowerment being now given to schools and particularly to teachers in
the pursuit of their profession has shown, that above all the learning of subject in general
and of the German language in particular, has a relevant meaning in the life of the pupil
when an adult. The teaching, together with its correspondent process of learning, of the
German language has proved to be as interesting in its approach as its success has
become significant.
This Syllabus for the Study of the German Language is a set of guidelines to the
teaching profession in the execution of its task. Whereas complete autonomy is ensured
in the choice of teaching material, the contents of language competence are now also
being grouped in two parts only, which correspond to the two sections of secondary
education. The examinations at the end of these two sections of secondary schooling,
while being truer to life both in method and content than those which have been set so
far, are the adjudicating criteria of attainment of language competence against set
benchmarks. The same can be said of the third examination at the end of the post-
secondary school in Malta.
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The introduction of the examinations called Fit in German and Matsec Intermediate
claims to be a thorough test of the pupil’s language ability based on all four skills of
which a language is composed. In this way the success of the pupils in attaining the
desired level of knowledge proves the efficiency of the guidelines of the syllabus.
Although the results obtained do not always reflect on the correctness and efficiency of
the methods of teaching being used, it is also true that dull and stale explanations and
applications of the language never lead the pupil to acquire a command of the language.
An insertion of the language in the activities of everyday life, which is its proper sphere,
is warranted for the desired success. This syllabus aspires to acquire just that.
This document consists of three sections. Section one deals with the significance and
aims of studying the German language with particular reference to Malta. It is presented
in such a way as to enable readers to grasp at a glance what is being managed by teachers
in the execution of their work. Section two expands the contents of section one, offering
further details. It speaks of three levels of knowledge of the German language, referring
to the three internationally recognized levels issued by the Council of Europe namely, A1
(Breakthrough), A2 (Waystage) and C1 (Threshold). [cfr. A Common European
Framework of Reference for Foreign Languages] . The first two levels are reached
during the secondary while the third level during the post-secondary period. Section
three deals with the examination, its purpose and contents, seen as the yardstick
attainment of language competence, as directed through the guidelines previously
offered. The examinations Fit in German 1 and Fit in German 2 refer to the secondary
sector. The examinations set to judge attainment of knowledge equivalent to benchmark
B1 (Threshold) level are the Matsec -- Intermediate level examination of the University
of Malta or the Zertifikat Deutsch examination of the Goethe Institut.
The whole document is meant to be a stimulus of encouragement to the teacher and pupil
of the German language, who are both protagonists in this field of communication. Once
the aspirations are achieved, one may safely say that a significant step in the development
of language teaching and learning has taken place.
The authors of this Syllabus wish every success in this sense to all those who embark on
the adventure of the study of German.
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Acknowledgements
The authors of this document would like to thank the authors of the syllabi of German in
Liechtenstein and Bulgaria and the authors of the syllabus for the Intermediate Level of
the University of Malta for their invaluable help in connection with information material.
Thanksgiving is also due to the subject coordinators who have worked hard in the
formulation, typing and proofreading of this document.
A last but not least word of thanks goes to the Education authorities of the Department of
Curriculum Management within the Education Division of Malta for the moral support
and invaluable help in the formulating of this document.
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SECTION 1
Speaking accompanies and supports thinking. It is the means through which thoughts are
developed, differentiated and examined. Speaking also creates reality and facilitates a
varied perception of the world.
2. Self - discovery
Speaking makes access to oneself and to the world possible, and is an important means of
identification and recognition of one’s limits. It plays a significant role in the spiritual
and affective development of the human being’s personality.
3. Communication
Verbal and non-verbal speech is the basis of inter human understanding. It makes it
possible to communicate thoughts and feelings to others, as well as to become acquainted
with and to understand the way of thinking and the experiences of other people. The
means of communication have been diversified by the use of modern technology and will
be continuously effected by it in the future.
4. Language Competence
The school arouses interest, curiosity and joy in language and contributes essentially to
the construction and expansion of language competence.
The traditional duties of the school are to enable the oral and written ability of
expression. In this context the significance of the daily use of language and the contact
with the media is increased.
6. Language Changes
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Language is on the one hand subject to a historical development, and on the other hand it
depends on the people who speak it and on the prevailing situations. This consciousness
facilitates a focused and responsible access to the language.
The promotion and enlargement of language abilities and skills are not only tasks of the
area of study called language but also concern other areas of study. The area of study
Language takes over contents of other areas of study as well as in attaining its set aims.
Language is a tool to facilitate other areas of study.
8. The Mother-language
The mother language is basically a Semitic form of speech which plays an important part
in our identity. It serves in this way as a basis for the learning of other languages.
Language skills are formed which are then transferred to the learning of other languages.
Lack of these skills could cause hindrance in the acquisition of other languages The
mother language of learners of other language areas has therefore to be also supported
and promoted.
9. Other Languages
The inter-human understanding between peoples across borders beyond one’s own
cultural area ,and between peoples of other cultures within one’s own borders due to
globalisation, is becoming increasingly important. Mastery of languages widens the
horizons of experience and is important for one’s own mobility and for professional
qualifications. Contact with other languages helps towards developing the understanding
for other cultures and towards reflecting on one’s own language and culture.
13
B The Purpose of the Area of Language-study
Pupils can achieve a deep relationship with a language. By means of the medium
language they can take a critical look at their complex connections. Language also
enables them to express their impressions, thoughts and opinions, to become acquainted
with other people and cultures, and helps them construct a personal frame of mind.
Pupils use a language to serve and care for the community. They create, form and hold
relationships in which they listen to other people, hold their own opinions and respect
those of others. Language facilitates the formulation of conflicts and can lead to their
solution without resorting to violence. Pupils therefore develop the awareness that
conflicts can mean a chance of positive change.
Pupils acquire a language as a cultural technique, and build their language competence.
They are therefore in a position to participate in the communication, information and
educational events of the community, and can thus plan their future and, conscious of
their responsibilities, easily adapt to the changes facing them.
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C The Purpose of the Study of the German Language
1. Listening
• Understanding
The pupils understand authentic texts related to situations, the contents of which
correspond to their spheres of experience and interest.
• Reacting
They are ready and able to hear others speaking and to listen to them attentively.
They are in a position to grasp what they heard from the context, even when some
expressions are unknown to them
2. Speaking
• Communicating
The pupils are ready and able to participate actively in a conversation. They express
their thoughts, opinions and feelings as the situation requires. They replace language
lacunae with formulations in a roundabout and descriptive way in the form of
circumlocutions.
• Use of language
They make use of vocabulary available and employ their knowledge of grammar
structures.
4. Reading
The pupils understand graded texts, grasp their contents, order the information
acquired and combine new with known. They also enjoy reading texts in a foreign
language.
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4. Writing
• Text writing
The pupils work out set texts and produce their own ones. They write these in a way
the language is understood.
• Text forming
They have the courage to produce their own language structures and enjoy
experimenting with the language.
• Use of Language
The pupils write the words correctly and in a grammatically correct form.
5. Language Reflection
• Building up a language
The pupils recognize rules, possible changes and modules of the foreign language.
• Language Comparison
They recognize the specialties of the foreign language and notice the differences from
their mother language and other languages.
6. Culture Reflection
The pupils develop a consciousness for the cultural background of the foreign
language. Through this they will strengthen the consciousness of their own cultural
identity; they will learn to understand other cultures and recognize this as a personal
enrichment.
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1. Listening
The main aim is understanding and reacting. The pupils are ready and in a position to
understand announcements in German as a second foreign language (L2) and to react to
them. The aims are fourfold:
1.1. to perceive through attentive listening the intonation and rhythm of the German
language and to become familiar with it.
This is attained by conversation in class.
1.2. to acquire information and understand the meaning of words through the situation
where language is used.
This is attained through dialogue, requests, questions and information.
1.1. to understand key informations in the media and to be able to react to them.
This is attained through T.V., Internet, radio, and telephone.
2. Speaking
The main aim is to communicate. The pupils make use of correct language. They speak
intelligibly and express themselves according to the situation. They participate in
conversations and make use of mimics and gesticulations as support. The aims are
fourfold:
2.1. to build up an inner readiness and motivation to speak and to cope with everyday
situations of communication.
This is attained through conversations during the lesson, role play and by any
possible contact with native speakers and other users of the language.
2.2. to acquire a clear and intelligible pronunciation through imitating sounds, rhythm
and intonation.
This is attained by means of songs and rhymes.
2.3. to create conditions, through learning the basic and further vocabulary, for the
active use of the language and the written language acquisition.
Use of to be made of factual themes.
2.4. to understand and use mimics and gesticulations as elements which support
language.
This is attained by the use of role play and pantomime.
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3. Reading
The main aim is reading and understanding. The pupils reach the level of reading with
sense through the skill of reading. They are ready to have a critical look at reading texts
on their own. The aims are fivefold:
3.1. to acquire requirements for learning how to read through increase in vocabulary
and inclusion of mother language. Use is to be made of vocabulary boxes and a
picture alphabet in the mother language.
3.2. to read letters and letter combinations, to pronounce correctly and to acquire
reading skills through intonation and rhythm. Use is to be made of the alphabet,
short texts and software.
3.3. to acquire the technique of reading with sense and to understand short texts,
dialogues and stories. This is attained through activating previous knowledge,
key words and simplified texts.
3.4. to correct understanding of text by the help of reference works. Use is to be made
of bilingual dictionaries, and dictionaries with meanings in the same language.
3.5. to discover books which strengthen reading skills and thereby increase the joy in
reading. Use is to be made of books in the first and second language, magazines ,
newspapers and imported products with current topics relevant to their age.
4. Writing
The main aim is the written expression. The pupils acquire writing ability, and through
writing broaden the possibilities of their expressions. The aims are fourfold:
4.1. to acquire printed and written script by means of assigning sounds to letters. Use
is to be made mainly of the alphabet.
4.2. to learn the basic and further vocabulary, and to be able to express oneself in
writing.
4.3. to acquire a technique of reference and to be able to use reference works for the
correction of expression and spelling. Use should be made of mono- and
bilingual dictionaries and picture lexicons.
4.4. to be able to formulate one’s own thoughts in various occasions for writing and to
develop creativity. This is attained by the use of diaries, letters and stories.
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5. Language Reflection
The main aim is to discover observance of rules. The pupils acquire insight in the
language and in its effect. They discover rules through making comparisons and
research, and they make use of the language structures acquired. The aims are fivefold:
5.1. to discover the changeability of the language through conscious contacts with the
language and to establish observance of rules.
5.2. to make comparisons with the mother language and to discover similarities and
differences. Use should be made of texts and books in the mother language and
the second language.
5.3. to acquire basic grammar notions for reflecting on and speaking the language.
5.4. to search for the modules of the language by grouping the variety of forms; to
recognize rules and use them consciously.
5.5. to experience and examine the effect of the language in different situations by
trial and observation.
6. Cultural Reflection
The main aim is the acquisition of a cultural identity. The pupils build up their own
identity among the cultures in which they live. The aims are threefold:
6.1. to examine the cultural traditions in the surrounding world. Use is to be made of
games, customs and feasts.
6.2. to ascertain differences and similarities of various cultures by means of care for
one’s own culture, and to examine them critically. This is done by means of
language and culture bridges.
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E The General Aims of the Study of German as an L2 in Malta *1
The learning of a second foreign language in the schools in Malta is in accordance with
both the individual needs and abilities of the pupils and with the demands and rights of
the community in which we live. This proves to be indispensable if one wants to increase
the facilities of communication and to guarantee the harmonious existence and
cooperation with other states and peoples speaking other languages and possessing
another cultural identity. The learning of one language does not guarantee to a sufficient
degree the formation of a solid system of an evaluating and open-minded approach to
other communities and cultures. It is only the learning of a second foreign language
which creates the conditions for an education towards multilingualism, which
determines the basis of the education policy in the field of foreign language learning of
the European Union. In this context, the teaching and learning of a second foreign
language should be understood not as an added burdensome obligation, but as a chance of
developing and promoting the pupil’s personality with the aim of a lifelong learning
process.
When drawing up the syllabus for lessons in German as a second foreign language, to be
used at a later point in time, it is necessary to give due consideration to the following
factors:
1
* L2 is here taken to mean a second foreign language
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In contrast with the first foreign language, the following factors condition the revision of
certain demands of the lesson in German as a second foreign language:
The syllabus for lessons in German as a second foreign language is developed on the
basis of the National Minimum Curriculum for Malta and of the Common European
Framework of Reference for Modern Languages of the Council of Europe.
The respective syllabi are developed by way of content and methodology in such a way
that they correspond to the structure and organization of the lessons, and lead to the target
levels set by the Council of Europe. Since there is hardly any difference in the age of
pupils who choose to learn German in the first or third year of their secondary schooling,
but indeed a difference exists in the number of weekly hours and duration of lesson, this
difference is to be taken into account, once the end target of level A2 (Waystage) is
expected to be attained by all pupils.
It is precisely in the second option group that the aims are higher. As a result of learning
German as a second foreign language, after English as the first foreign language, a
positive transfer of skills and learning strategies to a higher degree is to be noted, which
facilitate quicker progress in the learning of the second foreign language. Through
alternating language lessons an additional opportunity can be realized, namely that of
stressing more strongly the receptive ability, and of developing better the productive
ability of the pupil by:
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F The Specific Aims of the Study of German as an L2
The teaching of German as a second foreign language follows the same basic rules and
aims of learning any foreign language. In addition to this, the following specific aims are
to be striven for in the lessons for German as an L2:
2. The pupils acquire knowledge about the structure and specific qualities of
German and obtain experience of its function as a means of communication.
Basically the general and the specific aims for the lessons in German as both first and
second foreign language are identical. A new specific purpose for German as a second
foreign language would be the awareness and recognition of the structural and pragmatic
similarities and differences in comparison with the first foreign language learnt. In this
way the basis for multilingualism of pupils is created only through the second foreign
language. This includes the formation of a foreign language competence by means of
acquiring learning strategies and learning techniques, which would enable the pupils to a
lifelong acquisition of foreign languages. The latter should also raise the motivation of
the pupils to make use of the skills and abilities they learnt in the foreign language and to
develop them further independently.
The aims of the lessons in the subject German as an L2 bring about a broadening, an
enrichment and a differentiation in the following three spheres:
1. intercultural learning
2. strategies of learning and communication
3. autonomous learning and lifelong learning..
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SECTION II
THE SYLLABUS
The general and specific teaching and learning aims in the subject German as a second
foreign language are realized by means of fulfilling the objectives of the ultimate goal
which have been set in accordance with the four basic skills.
1.1. Reading
23
- they recognize the communicative function of the types of text listed
under point (i).
- they work with word card indexing.
- they perceive the foreign culture in that they take a critical look at their
own culture in the process.
- they make use of the knowledge, skills and strategies which they have
acquired in the lessons of their mother language or their first foreign
language, when deducing pieces of information from text or making
connections between them.
1.2. Listening
The pupils are in a position to understand different German language texts globally or in
detail through a direct contact or over the media. The texts should follow the standards
of level A1 of the Framework and observe the phonetical and intonation variants of the
German language. Of special significance in the training for the skill of listening is the
inclusion of sight perception.
i. The pupils understand questions and instructions of the teacher during the
lesson.
ii. The pupils can create correlations between hearing texts and pictures.
iii. The pupils can understand short dialogues between two or several
partners who refer to themes and situations already dealt with.
iv. The pupils can understand short everyday and especially tourist-related
information (e.g., at the post office, in a travel agency, at the railway
station / airport).
v. The pupils infer main announcements from conversations on themes and
situations already dealt with.
vi. The pupils can infer selective information from news, advertisements and
programme information on Radio or in T.V. as well as from easy
descriptive texts.
vii. The pupils can understand short literary forms like poems and songs on
the basis of directed explanation.
viii. The pupils make use of the following strategies while listening:
- they put forward hypotheses and examine them in the light of the
intention of the statement of various types of text.
- they recognize intonation models, linguistic and metalinguistic means
of expressing affirmation and negation.
- they make use of already known models of word building.
- they recognize the communicative function of varied types of text.
- they work with a dialogue – diagram.
- they draw up the construction plan of a text they have heard.
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1.3. Speaking
The pupils realize in their statements ways of speaking which are mentioned in the
subsequent part entitled Contents.
1.4. Writing
i. The pupils fill in tables with key words according to a text they have read
or heard.
ii. The pupils fill in easy forms, write greeting cards, invitations and short
personal announcements.
iii. The pupils lay down vocabulary cards according to a preset pattern.
iv. The pupils write short texts to photos and pictures.
v. The pupils make use of the following strategies while writing:
- they employ preset patterns and examples with sense.
- they use reference works for self correction of mistakes.
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2. Contents
2.1. Notions
The contents of teaching include the speaking material which allows the expression of the
following notions: Existence, Space and Time; Quantity and Quality, Logical
Relationships; Definite and Indefinite Forms.
The language interactivity taken up in the teaching contents takes into account the basic
functions of the language, namely the social, informative, appellative and affective.
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(iii) arranging things
- to express wishes.
- To make suggestions; to give / ask for advice.
- To ask for / refuse / offer help.
- To complain, to protest.
- To express readiness / refusal.
- To give / refuse / ask for permission; to forbid.
- Information about / asking for intentions.
- To ask if someone wants to do something, / is ready to do it.
- To promise, to confirm.
Expressions of:
- Agreement, refusal
- Conjecture, certainty, persuasion.
- Importance, insignificance.
- Interest, curiosity, disinterestedness, indifference.
- Preference, dislike, anger,
- Joy, excitement.
- Doubt, disappointment, annoyance.
- Anxiety, (fear), care, worry.
- Relief, appeasing, satisfaction.
- Trust, mistrust.
- Impatience, expectation, hope.
- Surprise, wonder.
2.3. Topics
(i) I and my family : relatives,; relationships; dwelling /house; daily / yearly routine;
activities in common; meals; feasts / celebrations; travelling.
(ii) I and my friends : circle of friends / clique; free time (hobbies, sport, games, radio,
T.V., music, reading, meetings, parties, pets); idols; dreams.
Information about the German-speaking countries will be integrated in such topics and
their various aspects.
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2.4. Areas, Roles and Places of Language Communication
The lesson prepares the pupils for a reasonable amount of communication in the
following areas:
Free time, school family, friends, services and for the use of German speaking mass
media.
Communicative language activity is realized at school, in public, on means of transport,
on visits and on the road. The pupils reach their role competence as is described in the
Common European Framework for Languages of the Council of Europe.
(iv) Grammar
o Sentence : statement, question, (question for completion and decision)
command.
o Subordinate clause : consecutive (dass), reason (weil) , conditional (wenn)
clauses.
o Coordination and subordination of clauses.
o Placing of the verb in the sentence: first, second and last place.
o Word order in a main and subordinate clause.
o Details of time, manner and place (casual).
o Verb: infinitive, imperative, indicative – Präsens, Perfekt, Präteritum of
auxiliary and modal verbs, modal verbs (meaning, indicative Präsens &
Präteritum, möchten).
o Verbs with reflexive pronouns in the Accusative and Dative.
o Verbs with prefixes – separable and inseparable.
o Nouns: Gender, plural, Nominative, Accusative, Dative.
o Articles : Definite and Indefinite.
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o Adjectives: predicative use; attributive use (Nom., Acc. & Dat.)
o Comparison of Adjectives: predicative use.
o Pronouns: personal, interrogative, possessive, demonstrative and the reflexive
pronouns (in Accusative & Dative), man, jemand, niemand the impersonal
pronouns es , etwas , nichts.
o Prepositions: with Accusative; with Dative; with Accusative & Dative.
o Conjunctions and subjunctions: und, aber, oder, sondern, denn, dann,
deshalb, weil, dass, wenn.
o Numerals : cardinal and ordinal numbers.
o Modal particles: aber, auch, denn, doch, mal, nur.
o Negation: nicht, kein, nie.
o Special adverbs: gern / lieber / am liebsten.
The authentic texts which are used for the development of the listening and reading skills
may contain linguistic forms and structures which go beyond the minimum of grammar
required for this level.
3. Textbooks.
The aims, methods and contents, as they are formulated in the syllabus for German as a
second foreign language for level 1 (A1), are to be adopted in the textbook for this level.
While the autonomy of the school in the choice of the textbook and related material is
respected, choice is to be made of a work which contains the following basic text
material.
3.1. Pupils’ book which contains the learning material obligatory for level 1, as well
as the grammar overview and an alphabetical word list;
3.2. Work book with exercises, which supplement the learning material of the pupil’s
book and makes possible a differentiation within the class of pupils and various
social forms (single, partner, group work) during the lesson. The book contains
tests which help the periodical control of the learning process and success;
3.3. Teacher’s book in which the concept of the pupil’s book is presented,
methodological tips given and alternative lesson schemes suggested, additional
cultural (Landeskunde) and linguistic information included, as well as indications
of possible forms of control and assessment of performance. It includes also I
listening comprehension texts, exercises on cassette, keys to the tests and
vocabulary to each unit;
3.4. Cassettes with listening comprehension texts from the pupil’s book and where
possible phonetic and grammar tests as well as further authentic texts which
contribute towards the development of listening comprehension.
3.5. I.T. Material which instills in the pupil an awareness of the German-speaking
world and encourages him/her to make use of interactive exercises with partners
abroad and in one’s own country (e-mail) and to satisfy the desire to research and
increase one’s knowledge of certain aspects of topics treated in class (internet).
This medium should make up for the lack of actual resources at school and
complete the overall picture of the German-speaking media.
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B The Second Level of Knowledge of German -- A2 Waystage
The general and specific teaching and learning aims in the subject German as a second
foreign language are realized by means of fulfilling the objectives of the ultimate goal
which have been set in accordance with the four basic skills.
1.1. Reading.
i The pupils are in a position to identify the text types listed below.
ii The pupils can select information from more complex informative,
descriptive and/or directive text types such as reports from a newspaper
and magazines, catalogue, travel timetable, weather report, diagram,
information brochure, reportage, curriculum vitae, instructions for use,
recipe, directives.
iii In view of details, the pupils understand the following text types: personal
letter, letter t the editor, description, fairy tale, comics, poem, short story,
joke.
iv While reading, the pupils make use of the following strategies:
- They recognize the function and parameters of communication of the
various text types.
- They recognize the correlation between text and picture.
- They look for and mark the main points of information in a text.
- They establish the connection between the title of a text and the main
points of information.
- They put hypotheses and examine them.
- They find arguments and main points in the text and mark them.
- They refer to the context when working out a detailed meaning of the
text and make use of rules for word-building.
- They work with word card-index.
- They perceive the foreign culture, in that they have a critical look at
their own culture in the process.
- They make use of the knowledge, skills and strategies which they
have acquired in the lessons of their mother language or of their first
foreign language, when deducing pieces of information from texts or
when making connections between them.
vi. The pupils can handle reference works( e.g. dictionaries, grammars).
30
1.2. Listening
1.3. Speaking.
The pupils realise in their statements, ways of speaking which are mentioned in the next
part entitled Contents.
31
x. The pupils make use of appropriate patterns of behaviour (mimics and
gesticulation , body nearness and distance, etc.) during the conversation.
xi. The pupils can make use of speaking strategies in the following ways:
1.4. Writing.
32
2 Contents
2.1. Notions
The contents of teaching include the speaking material which allows the expression of the
following notions:
Existence, space and time, quantity and quality, logical relationships, definite and
indefinite forms.
The notions remain unchanged. The notions time and logical relationships are extended
as follows:
- Time : time steps and forms
- Logical relationships : purpose.
The language interactivity taken up in the teaching contents takes into account the basic
functions of the language, namely the social, informative, appellative and affective. The
language interactivity as well as the notions remain unchanged. The means of language
expression are extended and varied, so that the topics and topic aspects foreseen in the
syllabus may be realised. This aim will be reached by means of:
- a greater complexity and abstractness in the handling of topics and their aspects.
- a differentiation of the communicative intentions.
- the increasing length and complexity of the texts to be handled in the training of the
receptive and productive skills in the oral and written areas.
At the end of level 2 the pupils can realise the following language interactivities
successfully:
33
(ii) giving information.
Expressions of:
- Agreement, refusal.
- Conjecture, certainty, persuasion.
- Importance, insignificance.
- Interest, curiosity, disinterestedness, indifference.
- Preference, dislike, anger.
- Joy, excitement.
- Doubt, disappointment annoyance.
- Anxiety & fear, care, worry.
- Relief, appeasement, satisfaction.
- Trust, mistrust.
- Impatience, expectation, hope.
- Surprise, wonder.
34
2.3. Topics
- attitudes and behaviour, character, temperament, the role of the family, generation
problems.
(ii) The individual and the community.
- Youth problems : models and idols, tolerance, violence, drugs and addictions,
fringe groups.
- Formation and Education: education systems of the German-speaking countries,
conflicts between teachers and pupils, pupils’ initiatives, learning vs. study.
- Work and social life: job opportunities, the world of work.
- Politics: political parties and systems of the German-speaking countries, market
economy, politicians and important political events (e.g., Nazis, the economy
miracle, the fall of the Berlin Wall, E.U., neutrality, ) the mass media.
(iii) Man and his surroundings
Way of life in the city and countryside, ecology, refuse disposal. Information
about the countries of the German-speaking world is integrated in the Topics mentioned
and their aspects.
The thematic(cross-curricular) aspect with other school subjects is desired in treating
such topics.
The lesson prepares the pupils for a reasonable amount of communication in the
following areas:
Family, school, friends, free time, services, youth problems, education, work, economy,
social problems, politics, environment.
The preparation for the use of German-speaking mass media is continued.
Communicative activities are realized at home, in the school, on the road, at the place of
work, on visits, on means of public transport, in public. The pupils reach the role of
competence as is described in the Common European Framework of Reference of the
Council of Europe.
(i) Phonetics
The work on the phonetic items which are already known is continued in connection with
the new language material to be introduced. Special attention is to be paid to the word
accent, to communicative oriented sentence accent and to intonation.
35
(ii) Orthography
(iii) Lexis
The vocabulary necessary for the differentiated realization of the mentioned language
interaction in the parameters of the foreseen topics and their aspects and the word
building models are learnt.
As a modal verb.
(iv) Grammar
o Subordinate clauses: temporal clauses with als, wenn, nachdem, bevor bis, seit.
o Indirect question.
o Relative clause (without genetive) wer, der.
o Final clause : damit.
o Unreal conditional clause.
o Infinitive + zu , um …zu + infinitive.
o Adjectives: genetive attribute prepositional attribute.
o Adjective participle as attribute.
o Modal forms.
o Verb: Präteritum, Plusquamperfekt, Konjunktiv II of the auxiliary and modal
o verbs, würde + infinite.
o Passive : Präsens, Präteritum, Perfekt.
o Lassen as a modal verb.
o Nouns : genetive.
o Adjective declension. Comparison : attributive use.
o Pronouns : relative Pronoun (Non., Acc., Dat.. wer as relative pronoun)
o Reciprocal pronouns: einander, reflexive Pronouns sich.
o Pronominal adverb : wo-, da-
o Prepositions + genetive : wegen, statt, während.
o Conjunctions: trotzdem, deshalb.
o Double conjunctions: entweder … oder, weder .. noch, sowohl … als auch,
zwar … aber.
o Subjunctions: Als, wenn, bevor, bis, seit, nachdem., damit.
The authentic texts which are used for the development of the listening and reading
skills may contain linguistic forms and structures which go beyond the minimum of
grammar required for this level.
36
3. Textbooks
The aims, methods and contents, as they are formulated in the syllabus for German as a
second foreign language for level 2 (A2), are to be adopted in the textbooks for this level.
While the autonomy of the school in the choice of the textbooks is respected, choice is to
be made of a work which contains the following text material.
3.1. Pupil’s Book which contains the learning material obligatory for level 2, as well
as the grammar overview and an alphabetical word list.
3.2. Work Book with exercises, which supplement the learning material of the pupil’s
book and makes possible a differentiation within the class of pupils and various
other social forms (single, partner, group work) during the lesson. The book
contains tests which help the periodical control of the learning process and
success.
3.3. Teacher’s Book in which the concept of the pupil’s book is presented,
methodological tips given, and alternative lesson schemes suggested, additional
cultural (Landeskunde)and linguistic information included, as well as indications
of possible forms of control and assessment of performance. It includes also
listening comprehension texts, exercises on cassette, keys to the tests and
vocabulary to each unit.
3.4. Cassettes with listening comprehension texts from the Pupil’s book and, where
possible , phonetic and grammar tests as well as further authentic texts which
contribute towards the development of the listening comprehension.
3.5. I.T. Material which instills in the pupil an awareness of the German-speaking
world and encourages them to make use of interactive exercises with partners
abroad or in one’s own country (e-mail) and to satisfy the desire to research and
increase one’s knowledge of certain aspects of topics treated in class (internet).
This medium should make up for the lack of actual resources at school and
complete the overall picture of the German-speaking media.
37
C The Third Level of Knowledge of German -- B1 Threshold
The general and specific teaching and learning aims in the subject German as a second
foreign language are realized by means of fulfilling the objectives of the ultimate goal
which have been set in accordance with the four basic skills.
1.1. Reading
The training of all three styles of reading (global, selective total) will continue, the
priority being given however to the detailed text comprehension.
i The pupils are in a position to identify the text types listed below.
ii The pupils work out the meaning of the following text types selectively
and in detail : questionnaire, interview, texts from the media, tourist guide
books, advertisement texts, biography, non-fiction text, a text from the
pupil’s book, a description of a product, diagram, handbook.
iii They understand in detail the following literary genres: short narrative,
poem, anecdote, sketch.
iv While reading, the pupils make use of the following strategies:
38
1.2. Listening
1.3. Speaking
The pupils realise in their statements ways of speaking which are mentioned in the part
entitled contents. They can produce stylistically nuanced expressions.
39
ix The pupils make use of the following strategies while speaking:
1.4. Writing
i. The pupils fill in forms and work out flow diagrams to texts they have read
or heard.
ii The pupils make notes on texts they have read or heard.
iii The pupils summarise texts according to a plan made previously.
iv The pupils write summaries of texts they have read or heard.
v. The pupils write personal, formal letters, letters to the editor as well as their
own curriculum vitae.
vi The pupils learn the socio – cultural manners necessary for the written
expression e.g., address in a personal and formal letter, polite phrases, etc.
vii The pupils construct short original texts according to visual impulses.
viii The pupils construct written contributions to the school / pupils’ newspaper.
ix The pupils make use of the following strategies while writing:
40
2. Contents
2.1. Notions
The contents of teaching include new language material which makes the expression of
the following notions possible: existence, space & time, quantity & quality, logical
relationships, definite and indefinite forms.
The notions remain unchanged. The notions Time and Logical Relationships are
extended as follows:
The language interactivity taken up in the teaching contents of a language takes into
account the basic functions of the language, namely the social, informative, appellative
and affective ones. The language interactivity as well as the notions remain unchanged.
The means of language expression are extended and varied so that the topics and their
aspects foreseen in the syllabus may be realised. This aim will be reached by means of:
- a greater complexity and abstraction in the handling of topics and their aspects.
- a differentiation of the communicative intentions.
- the increasing length and complexity of the texts to be handled in the training of
receptive and productive skills in the oral and written areas.
At the end of level 3 (B1) the pupils can realise the following language interactivity
successfully:
41
(ii) giving information
Expressions of:
42
2.3. .Topics.
Information about the countries of the German-speaking world is integrated in the topics
mentioned and their aspects.
The thematic (cross-curricular)aspect with the other school subjects is desired in dealing
with such topics.
The lesson prepares the pupils for a reasonable amount of communication in the
following areas:
Family, school, friends, free time, services, youth problems, education, culture, work
economy, social problems, politics, environment.
The preparation for the use of German – speaking mass media is continued.
Communicative activities take place at home, in the school, on the road, at the place of
work, on visits, on means of public transport, in public. The pupils reach their role of
competence as is described in the Common European Framework of Reference for
Languages of the Council of Europe.
(i) Phonetics
The work on the phonetic items which are already known is to be continued in
connection with the new language material to be introduced.
(ii) Orthography
The work aiming at mastering orthography is to be continued within the parameters of the
language material to be learnt.
43
(iii) Lexis
The vocabulary necessary for the differentiated realization of the mentioned language
interaction within the parameters of the foreseen topics and their aspects and the word-
building models are to be learnt.
(iv) Grammar
The grammar work at this stage has as its aim both the acquaintance of new language
structures and the systemizing of language material learnt up to now. Special attention is
to be paid to grammatical synonymity, the elements interwoven in the text and the
language register (functional stylistics).
The new language structures are:
o Subordinate clauses : relative clauses in the genitive.
concessive clauses – obwohl
consecutive clauses – so dass
infinitive clauses – ohne / statt … + zu + Infinitive.
modal clauses – ohne dass, statt dass
o The extended adjective.
o Verb : Future 1, (temporal, modal).
Perfekt of modal verbs.
Konjunktiv I in reported speech.
Passiv: Vorgangs- und Zustandpassiv
Passive with a modal verb
o Pronouns: relative pronoun in the genitive.
o Prepositions with the genitive : trotz, anstatt, etc.
o Subjunctions : obwohl, so dass, statt dass, ohne dass.
The authentic texts which are used for the development of the listening and reading
skills may contain linguistic forms and structures that go beyond the minimum of
grammar required for this level.
3. Textbooks
The aims, methods and contents, as they are formulated in the Syllabus for German as a
second foreign language for level 3 (B1) are to be adopted in the textbooks for this level.
While the autonomy of the school /college in the choice of the textbook is respected,
choice is to be made of a work which contains the following text material. The text
material should consist of:
3.1. Pupil’s book which contains the learning material obligatory for level 3 (B1), as
well as the grammar overview and an alphabetical word list.
44
3.2. Work book with exercises which supplement the learning material of the pupil’s
Book and makes possible a differentiation within the class of pupils and various
social forms(single, partner and group work) during the lesson. The book
contains tests which help the periodical control of the learning progress and
success.
The pupil’s book and the work book for level 3 contain significant extensive
instructive material: texts, tasks, exercises which make possible a perfection of
the receptive and better development of the productive skills of the pupils, who
learn a second foreign language in our schools.
3.3. Teacher’s book in which the concept of the pupil’s book is presented,
methodological tips given and alternative lesson plans suggested, additional
cultural (Landeskunde) and linguistic information included, as well as indications
of possible forms of control and assessment of performance. It includes also
listening comprehension texts, exercises on cassette and vocabulary lists to each
unit.
3.4. Cassettes with listening comprehension texts from the pupil’s book and further
authentic texts and exercises for the development of listening comprehension.
3.5. Further reading which enables the pupils to become aware of certain aspects of
the culture and civilization of German-speaking countries which are essential for
an understanding of the countries and their peoples. Tatsachen über Deutschland,
the book published every year by the press & information office of the German
Federal Government, is recommended as orientation and not as a text book.
45
D Didactic and Methodological Principles of a Lesson
The material for the lesson is built according to the thematic principle, while the
progression is pragmatically oriented. The thematic arrangement is not to be
understood simply as an acquisition of knowledge but it has the job of motivating
and building up the handling ability in harmony with the concrete communicative
needs of the respective communicative situations. The Landeskunde contents are
implicitly introduced and are to be understood as an inseparable component of
the language learning.
The choice of teaching and learning contents and the organization of the lesson
create requirements for the cultivation of stable abilities for intercultural
communication. The development of skills in various communicative activities is
realized coherently. The cognitive processes of understanding are supported to a
high degree by the development of the receptive skills.
The lesson of German is oriented towards the interests, needs and individual
particularities of the pupils and stimulates autonomous learning, in that it
considers the higher developed independence of the pupils, their need to make
them aware of processes, the ability to make and verify hypotheses, etc.
The means of communication during the lesson is the German language. In order
to support autonomous learning, the use of Maltese or English in class
conversation is however justified possible, even recommended, if it serves the
purpose of explaining motivation problems, difficulties and learning strategies
and techniques used by the pupils. The pupil is a valuable conversation partner
with equal rights and he participates actively in the planning and execution of the
lesson. This takes for granted the use of various social types of class work
(partner and small group work, frontal and individual lesson) as well as of the
non-traditional procedures e.g., project lessons, use of electronic media, etc.
The lesson reckons with the skills and cultivated strategies developed while
learning the first foreign language and which can be transferred over to the
various communicative activities, as well as with the learning techniques which
support the understanding and learning of grammar structures and vocabulary.
Points of correspondence in the lessons of two languages, where approaches,
principles, procedure and forms of organization are concerned, can be rendered
fruitful.
46
The contrasting way of procedure is a strategy which is not only applied with
regard to the mother language and German, but which also contrasts, as and when
required, between German and the first foreign language, in order to derive
information to make structures known and to compensate for existing deficiencies
of the language. The German lesson contributes towards broadening contents in
the other art subjects.
It is desirable that the teachers for German as a second foreign language have
certain knowledge of the first foreign language of the pupils, as well as know then
textbooks, the lesson procedures and the forms of organization used in such
lessons.
The changes in the aims and contents of the subject German as a second foreign
language leads logically to changes in the assessment and evaluation of
performance. Two kinds of control are planned : continuous and periodical,
which should correspond in its form and method of procedure to the set
requirements of the National Minimum Curriculum and of the Common European
Framework of Reference.
Since the ultimate aims of the lessons of German are of a pragmatic nature, i.e.,
they are oriented towards the communicative and socio – cultural competence of
the pupils, the performance controls should retain a proportion of 2 . 1 between
the functional and structural forms of control. The control of the socio – cultural
competence integrated in the control of the four skills by means of a
corresponding choice of texts and exercises.
The text books should contain pattern tests with functional and structural
exercises, which take into account the aims of the lesson at various levels and
offer objective criteria for evaluation.
The need exists of introducing a national standardized examination for the subject
German as a second foreign language for the levels A1 and A2, so that the
knowledge and skills of the pupils after the respective period of lessons can be
objectively and reliably assessed and evaluated. The system of examinations
followed in the state schools in Malta catering for the secondary level is based on
that produced by the Goethe Institut in its examinations Fit in Deutsch 1 and Fit
in Deutsch 2. The state school national examinations in German as a second
foreign language are entitled Fit in German 1 and Fit in German 2 , and they
correspond to the indicators of the two levels A1 Breakthrough and A2
Waystage of the Common European Framework of Reference of the Council of
Europe. In the post-secondary sector the level B1 Threshold is reached and
certified by an examination set by the University of Malta entitled MATSEC—
Intermediate.
47
Common practice has it that pupils finishing their secondary school sit for an
examination set by the University of Malta entitled MATSEC – Secondary
Education Certificate, and those who would like to further their studies sit for the
examination set by the Goethe Institut entitled Zertifikat Deutsch. The first three
examinations are explained in Section III. The indicators are reproduced in
Appendix 1.
48
SECTION III THE EXAMINATION
A “ Fit in German 1”
The Common European Framework of Reference of the Council of Europe with its six
tiered scala of language competence ranging from complete beginners to near mother
language competence serves as parameters for ascertaining the level of language
knowledge acquired. The Council of Europe has worked out a six-tiered scale as
follows:
A1 - Breakthrough
A2 - Waystage
B1 - Threshold
B2 - Vantage
C1 - Effectiveness
C2 - Mastery
The examination Fit in German 1 establishes the competence in German of the pupils at
the end of Form II. It is a benchmark set at the end of the second year at secondary level,
as required by the National Minimum Curriculum in Malta. It does not necessarily
depend on any particular textbook. It is carried out according to uniform standards and
may be taken after 100 to 120 hours of lessons in German. It establishes knowledge on
the level A1 Breakthrough of the Language Framework of the Council of Europe.
2.2. Candidates
The examination FiG 1 is intended for pupils at the end of their second year of studies at
secondary level.
49
2.3. Setting of papers
The examination is set by qualified personnel within the Department of German of the
Education Division.
The setters of this examination are responsible for the choice of examination material.
Authentic texts from the daily life of the pupils are taken as basis for such material. The
following criteria decide the choice of material:
• Can do statements* of the A1 level as explained by the Language Framework
and by the language portfolio.
• Topics drawn from within these parameters and the portfolio.
• Lists of grammar structures (see 3.3.)
• Word lists (see 3.4.)
2.6. Duration
The duration of the examination is stated in all its component parts. The written part lasts
altogether 60 minutes, the oral part 15 minutes per group.
The written scripts will be marked by the respective teachers in the schools and
moderated at random by the Education Officer and / or Subject Coordinator for German.
The performance of pupils in the oral part of the examination will also be judged
wherever possible by two examiners.
The pupil is considered to be successful if s/he obtains a minimum of 50%. Marks are
awarded as follows: Hören – 30%; Lesen – 20%; Schreiben – 20% and Sprechen – 30%.
Results will be issued in terms of percentage marks and grades in terms of Very good,
Good and Pass. A certificate bearing such grades may be issued to successful pupils who
obtain at least half the marks awarded to each section.
_______________________
* These can do statements are reproduced in Appendix 2
50
3. Contents, Topics and Required Amount of Knowledge of German
The Goethe Institut in accordance with the Council of Europe defines the overall
language ability of those who reach level A1 – Breakthrough according to the following
scheme.
The pupil can :
(i) General
- understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at
satisfying needs of a concrete type.
- introduce him/herself and others, and ask and answer questions about personal
details, e.g., name, where s/he lives, people s/he knows, things s/he has.
- answer such like questions put to him/her.
- interact in a simple way, provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is
prepared to help.
- understand statements when these are clearly articulated and contain long pauses
which allow him / her time to assimilate the meaning.
- understand statements which satisfy elementary and concrete needs, when they are
made directly to him / her.
- understand questions and instructions addressed carefully and slowly, and follow
short simple sentences.
- understand numbers, quantities, prices and time.
- understand short simple texts, containing familiar names, words and phrases.
- grasp the meaning of very simple information material and short and easy
descriptions especially if they are supported by pictures.
- understand short simple information on postcards.
- recognize familiar names, words and expressions.
- follow short and simple directions (e.g., going from A to B).
- understand numbers, quantities, prices and time.
(iv) Speaking
51
- ask where to find people and react according to the information obtained.
- ask people for things and give people things.
- indicate time by such phrases as next week , last Friday, in November, at 3 o’clock.
- make use of numbers, quantities, prices and time.
(v) Writing
The following list of topics serves as a basis for the content of the examination tasks and
exercises:
(ii) School
(iii) Family
52
(v) Friends
- inviting someone.
- accepting / refuting an invitation.
- expressing sympathy / rejection.
- speaking about people.
(vi) Hobbies
- naming hobbies
- expressing likes, e.g., Ich mag gern / ich finde …….gut / interessant / wichtig / toll.
(vii) Travelling
- naming destinations.
- describing ways of travelling.
- expressing wishes e.g., Ich möchte gern …………… reisen.
- expressing a liking / dislike e.g. Ich mag gern / Ich mag nicht
- asking for the price.
- wishing for something e.g., Ich möchte…….
(ix) At home
- speaking about habitual things e.g., Was machst du am Abend? , Was machst du am
Wochenende?.
- expressing preferences.
- expressing dislikes.
53
3.3. Grammar
It is expected that pupils grasp the following structures and that they can understand and
use them in simple sentences in the context of everyday life. Reference is here made to
the section (iv) Grammar on page 28.
3.4. Vocabulary
The complete vocabulary list can be found in the Handbuch : Fit in German 1 .
54
4. Aims and Format of the Examination
(i) Aim
The aim of testing the pupil’s listening skill is to make them show they are in a position
to understand very short and simple texts, commonly and daily used names, words
expressions and simple phrases, if the text is read twice.
(ii) Format
This section consists of two subtests:
Subtest 1. consists of short piece of news which a youngster has said to a friend or a
relative on an answering machine, telephone, etc. the pupils should understand the
central message, e.g., place, time, person.
Subtest 2 contains short dialogues between German youngsters and two speakers
separately. The pupils here should understand the content of the dialogue and be able to
deduce important information details.
All texts are read out twice at normal speech tempo.
Each subtest has 6 exercises of the type multiple choice and / or true / false. Every type
may be preceeded by an example related to the given text. The rubrics are given in the
mother language of the pupil (or in English).
The section Hören consists of 3 pieces of news from a telephone etc, each piece being 20
seconds long, and of 2 short dialogues between two youngsters, each having a duration of
approx. 30 seconds. The basis of the dialogues is the everyday world of German youth.
Accompanying the pieces of news from the telephone, etc. are 2 exercises of the multiple
choice type to each piece, possibly supported by pictures; accompanying each of the two
short dialogues are three exercises of the true / false type. Each correct answer carries
one mark out of a total of 12 marks for this section, which are then multiplied by 1.5 to
reach a maximum of 18 out of a maximum of 60 for the whole paper. This section is
allowed 20 minutes to be completed.
55
4.2. Lesen - Reading
(i) Aim
The aim of testing the pupils’ reading skill is to make them show they are in apposition
to understand short and simple reading texts of two different kinds about topics from their
own background of experience. They should be able to recognize names, numbers and
common expressions taken from the world of German youth and to recognize them in the
context of simple sentences.
(ii) Format
This section consists of two subtests. Every subtest contains several short texts.
Subtest 1 contains short adverts visually supported by pictures intended for youths. The
pupils should first understand the text generally and then deduce selected information.
Subtest 2 contains short statements, in which German youths speak about themselves.
The pupils should understand the text in detail.
Each subtest has 6 exercises of the multiple choice or the true / false type. Every type of
exercise may be preceeded by an example related to the given text. The rubrics are given
in the mother tongue of the pupil (or in English).
The section Lesen consists of 2 short texts, each of approx. 30 words supported by
pictures, and of 2 short statements each of approx. 50 words long. The basis of the texts
is short advertisements and short printed texts from youth magazines.
Each correct answer carries one mark out of a total of 12 marks for this section and of 60
marks for the whole paper.
56
4.3. Schreiben - Writing
(i) Aim
The aim of testing the pupils’ writing skill is to make them show they are in a position to
create a short text out of simple sentences. The pupils should be able to produce a text
arising from factual writings, such as self-introduction, greetings from a holiday abroad,
etc.
(ii) Format
This section consists of only one test where the pupils are expected to produce a short
text of about 50 words, the beginning of which is already constructed, as a reaction to a
written statement. The text should be produced as a reaction to a language stimulus (in
the form of an inquiry or news) which is offered.
The text produced can have the form of a short piece of news, a postcard or an e-mail.
Auxiliary material, such as dictionaries, is not allowed.
This section carries a maximum of 6 marks, which is then doubled to reach a maximum
of 12 marks out of a total of 60 marks for the whole paper.
This section is allowed 20 minutes to be completed.
(iii) Evaluation
3 marks - the text produced corresponds to the occasion of writing and the required
length of 50 words is reached.
2 marks - the text produced corresponds to a large degree to the occasion of writing
and is between 40 and 50 words long.
1 mark - the text produced corresponds at the beginning to the occasion of writing
and is on the whole short, or the sentences are copied directly out of the
stimulus text.
0 marks - the text produced does not correspond to the occasion of writing. In this
case the whole Schreiben section of the exam will be awarded 0 marks.
57
Criterium 2 : formal correctness (max. 3 marks) awarded if:
58
Subtest 2a - Putting a question on given topic
Subtest 2b - Answering a question put by a pupil-partner
(i) Aim
The aim of this part is to test the ability of the pupil to ask a simple question on a known
topic (e.g., school, hobby) and to answer a pupil-partner about it.
(ii) Format
In these subtests the pupil selects a word card on a topic chosen by the examiner. The
pupil asks the partner a question on this topic and the partner answers directly.
lernen
Klasse
Lehrer
Hausaufgaben
Fach
(ii) Format
The pupils select a situation card. There are 6 cards, one for each of the six pupils.
Every card presents a picture of an object and is marked with an exclamation mark or a
question mark. The former suggests that the pupil has to express a request or demand,
the question mark suggests that the pupil must put a question. The pupil-partner fulfills
the request or demand or answers the question directly.
Example: Situation-cards 1 : door !, 2: book !, 3 : window !, 4 : pen !, 5 :pen ? 6 clock ?
59
Fulfillment : The pupil opens the door.
The total maximum of marks awarded in this section is 12 which is then multiplied by
1.5 to reach a maximum of 18 marks out of a total of 60 for the whole paper.
60
Awarding of grades
60 - 50 marks - sehr gut
49 - 40 marks - gut
39 - 30 marks - bestanden
29 - O marks - nicht bestanden
DIAGRAMS
Hören - Figure 1
SUBTEST AIMTEXT TYPE EXERCISE ITEMS MARKS
STURCTURE TYPE
1 Selective News from Multiple 6 6
understanding telephone – choice
monologue
2 Detailed Short True / false 6 6
understanding communication
- dialogue
Overall duration of texts - 2 minutes
Lesen - Figure 2
Sprechen - Figure 4
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3b Fulfill request / answer Dialogue Request / question 2
question of pupil-partner
Oral examination groups : 6 pupils , 2 examiners.
B “ Fit in German 2”
The examination FiG2 is oriented towards the description of A2 Waystage level in the
parameters of the Council of Europe Common European Framework of Reference . It
bases itself and follows closely the aims, aspirations and methods of examination Fit in
Deutsch 2 set by the Goethe Institut. This institution is devoted on commission by the
Federal Republic of Germany to the study of the German language and culture abroad. It
is a founder member of the Association of Language Testers in Europe (ALTE) founded
in 1990 and whose members from 15 countries offer language examinations in their
respective language.
The examination Fit in German 2 establishes the competence in German of the pupils at
the end of Form V. It is a benchmark set at the end of the 5th year at secondary level, as
required by the National Minimum Curriculum in Malta. It does not necessarily depend
on any textbook. It is carried out according to uniform standards and may be taken after
200 – 240 hours of lessons in German. It establishes knowledge on the level A2
Waystage of the Common European Framework of Reference of the Council of Europe.
2.2. Candidates.
The examination FiG 2 is intended for pupils of both options at the end of their fifth year
of studies at secondary level.
The examination is set by qualified personnel within the Department of German of the
Education Division.
The setters of this examination are responsible for the choice of examination material.
Authentic texts from the daily life of the pupils are taken as basis for such material. The
following criteria decide the choice of material:
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•Can do * statements of A2 level as explained by the Language Framework and
by the language portfolio.
• Topics drawn from within these parameters and the portfolio.
• Lists of grammar structures (se 3.3.)
• Word lists. (see 3.4.)
______________________________
* These can do statements are reproduced in Appendix 3.
2.5- Examination Parts
2.6. Duration
The duration of the examination is stated in all its component parts. The written part lasts
altogether 90 minutes, the oral part 20 minutes per group of 2 pupils.
The written scripts will be marked by the respective teachers in the schools and
moderated at random by the Education Officer and / or the Subject Coordinator for
German. The performance of pupils in the oral part will also be judged wherever
possible by two examiners.
The pupil is considered to be successful if s/he obtains a minimum of 50%. Marks are
awarded as follows: Lesen 25%, Hören 25%, Schreiben 20%, Sprechen 30%.
Results will be issued in terms of percentage marks and grades in terms of Very good,
Good, and Pass. A certificate bearing such grades may be issued to successful pupils
who obtain at least half the marks awarded to each section.
The Goethe Institut in accordance with the Council of Europe defines the overall
language ability of those who reach level A2 Waystage according to the following
scheme. The pupil can:
(i) General
-
verbalise his / her concrete needs and has in predictable everyday situations a
repertoire of short phrases at his / her disposal which can assure him / her of survival.
-
Give information about one’s own situation or about others.
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-
Participate in a short routine conversation , if the topics dealt with concern
exclusively one’s own daily life.
-
Relate very short and simple past events and activities.
-
Make short statements or comparisons of objects or possessions.
-
Come to terms with everyday life ( e.g., living, shopping, travelling, meals).
-
Obtain for him/herself simple information from public life (e.g., transport, tel. Nos.
appointments with doctor, describing the way).
(ii) Listening Comprehension.
- understand phrases and contents related to one’s own background and experience.
- Identify known words and phrases in a conversation heard by chance.
- Deduce information from recorded listening texts, if these deal with predictable
daily events, if they are produced slowly and clearly and if it is possible to hear
them a second time.
- Identify the main points of television news (e.g., about accidents, definite events,
etc.) once the commentary is visually supported well enough.
- Grasp the information in simple public announcements.
- Understand and reshape simple directives (e.g., description of a way).
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- Exchange ideas with others, as long as the partner in conversation is ready to help
him / her in speaking.
- Arrange meeting points and make suggestions.
- Communicate, when s/he understands s.th. and if necessary ask for a repetition.
- Make use of simple phrases in simple routine situations(e.g., family, school, free
time) in order to lead a limited conversation.
- Give and ask for information about quantities, numbers and prices.
- Ask and answer questions on past events.
(v) Writing
The following list of topics serves as a basis for the content of the examination exercises.
(i) Friendship
- Introducing oneself
- Asking for names, addresses, family, school, etc.
- Expressing sympathy.
- Describing people.
- Comparing people.
- Relating happenings.
(ii) School
(iii) Family
- Describing people.
- Expressing sympathy and antipathy.
- Expressing one's own opinion.
- Describing objects and situations in detail.
- Making requirements.
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(iv) Free time activities
(v) Travelling
- Deducing information.
- Giving information.
- Making suggestions.
- Giving time details.
- Describing places.
- Narrating past events.
(vii) Living
- Describing one's own room.
- Expressing wishes.
- Describing objects.
- Comparing possessions.
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- Speaking about physical state of health.
- Naming parts of the body.
- Relating experiences.
(xii) Relationships
3.3. Grammar
It is expected that pupils grasp the following structures and that they understand and use
them in simple sentences in the context of everyday life. Reference is here made to the
section (iv) Grammar for the second level on page 36.
The list given hereunder is to be added to that for level A1.
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Verbs + Dative, + Genitive.
- Prepositions + genitive : wegen, während, statt, trotz.
- Conjunctions trotzdem, deshalb , außerdem.
- Double Conj. Entweder…oder, weder…noch, sowohl…als auch, zwar…aber.
- Subjunctions als, wenn, bevor, bis, seit, nachdem, damit.
- Subordinate Clauses :
3.4. Vocabulary
The complete vocabulary list can be found in the Handbuch for Fit in German 2.
(i) Aim
The aim of testing the pupils listening skill is to make them show they are in a position to
understand simple texts. They should be able to understand simple and straightforward
information which refers to their everyday life once they can hear the text twice.
(ii) Format
Subtest 1 consists of three items read by a radio announcer, first as a whole, then again in
three parts. It contains 9 exercises of the Multiple Choice type. These 9 exercises are
divided into three parts according to the three items of the text. Every item is approx. one
minute long.
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Subtest 2 contains a dialogue between two German youngsters, which should be read
first as a whole, then once again in two parts. The pupils should understand the content
of the dialogue and be able to deduce important detailed information. All texts are read
out twice at normal speech tempo.
Subtest 2 has 5 exercises after the first part of the dialogue and 6 exercises after the
second part, all of the True / False type. Every type of exercise may be preceeded by an
example related to the given text.
The rubrics are given in the mother language of the pupil (or in English).
Auxiliary material, such as dictionaries, is not allowed.
Each answer carries one mark out of a total of 20 marks out of a maximum of 80 for the
whole examination. This section is allowed 30 minutes to be completed. A diagram of
the format of this section Hören is produced as Figure 5.
(i) Aim
The aim of testing the pupils` reading skill is to make them show they are in a position to
understand easy reading texts of three different kinds on topics from their own sphere of
experience. They should be able to deduce concrete and predictable information from
easy texts from the life experience of German youth
(ii) Format
Subtest 2 contains letters in which youngsters speak about their problems. The pupils
should understand the text in detail. Subtest 2 contains two letters of about 130 words
each. The basis of these letters is letters to the editor in a youth magazine. It contains 10
exercises of the true / false type.
Subtest 3 contains a magazine article which narrates a story. The pupils should first
understand the text as a whole and then deduce information from it. Subtest 3 consists of
a narrative text of about 180 words. The basis of this text is an article in a youth
magazine. It contains 4 straightforward questions to be answered in short.
Each type of exercise may be preceeded by an example related to the given text. The
rubrics are given in the mother tongue of the pupil (or in English). Auxiliary material,
such as dictionaries, is not allowed.
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A diagram of the format of this section Lesen is produced as Figure 6.
(i) Aim
The aim of testing the pupils` writing skill is to make them show they are in a position to
create a fair amount of text consisting of simple sentences. They are able to produce, as
a reaction to a really written text, a written text themselves, in which they give
information about themselves, ask information and make suggestions for a meting in
simple sentences.
(ii) Format
The pupils are expected to produce a written text in the form of a letter of at least 80 (80
– 100) words as a reaction to a written statement. Auxiliary material, such as
dictionaries, is not allowed.
This section is allowed 30 minutes to be completed. It carries a maximum of 8 marks
which is then doubled to reach a maximum of 16 marks out of a total of 80 marks for the
whole paper.
A diagram of the format of this section Schreiben is produced as Figure 7.
(iii) Evaluation
4 marks - all the 4 points of content have been appropriately tackled. The produced text
corresponds to the occasion for writing in the choice of words and contents of
the text.
3 marks - One point of content is missing, but otherwise the produced text corresponds
to the occasion for writing in the choice of words and contents of text (letter is
shorter than 80 words).
OR - all the points of content are tackled but the text is not appropriate in the choice
of words and contents of text (letter is shorter than 80 words).
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2 marks -At least 2 points of content have been tackled; the letter corresponds to the
occasion for writing.
1 mark -At least one point of content was tackled and the produced text is recognizable
as a letter.
0 marks - the produced text does not correspond to the occasion for writing and is not
recognizable as a letter.
In this case the whole of the Schreiben section of the examination will be
awarded 0 marks.
The examination section Sprechen is a partner – oriented examination with two pupils
each time, and consists of three parts (subtests).
In the first part pupils show they are in a position to introduce themselves, whereby they
give details about themselves.
In the second part (subtests 2a & 2b) they should react to a language stimulus (situation
cards on a chosen everyday topic) by putting a question to a pupil-partner and likewise
answer a question put to them by the pupil-partner.
In the third part the pupils should react appropriately in one or two sentences to a non-
verbal stimulus (picture card).
The first and third parts are a monologue, the second is partner-oriented.
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The whole section contains 4 subtests in all.
Subtest 1 - Self-presentation
(i) Aim
The aim of this part of the section Sprechen is to test the pupil’s ability to give details
about him/herself.
(ii) Format
(i) Aim
The aim of this part is to test the pupils` ability to put a concrete question about a topic
well known to them(e.g., daily routine, traveling) and to answer a concrete question put
to them by a pupil-partner.
(ii) Format
In this subtest the pupil selects a word-card about a topic stated by the examiner. Taking
the tip from the interrogative word on the card, the pupil asks his/her partner a question
connected with the topic stated. The pupil-partner answers directly.
Every pupil puts 4 questions and gives 4 answers.
Example: topic chosen by examiner TAGESABLAUF
Word-cards to be chosen by pupils
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Wo? Wann? Was? Wie oft? Wohin? Wer? Mit wem?
(i) Aim
The aim of this part is to test the pupil’s ability to react appropriately by use of language
in a complex situation from everyday life.
(ii) Format
The pupils select a situation card. Every situation card presents a clear scenario, as any
youngster in Germany can encounter at any time. The speaking figure is indicated as
shaded. The pupil has to react to this situation with a couple of sentences. The exercise
is repeated and each pupil would have reacted to three cards.
Example:
Card chosen: Man A seated in seat no. 18 – not his seat. Speaking man B showing ticket
no 18.
Reaction: Ich glaube, das ist mein Platz. Ich habe Nummer 18.
Each card and reaction is awarded one mark to a maximum of 3 marks for subtest 3.
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Formal No or few mistakes Many mistakes. Grammar and lexical
correctness Message mistakes destroy
understandable sense of message
The total maximum of marks awarded in the section Sprechen is 12 which is then
multiplied by 2 to reach a maximum of 24 out of a total of 60 for the whole paper.
Awarding of Grades
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DIAGRAMS
Horen - Figure 5
SUBTEST AIM TEXT TYPE& TYPE OF ITEMS MARKS
STRUCTURE EXERCISE
1 Selective News from radio Multiple 9 9
understanding - monologue choice
2 Global / Conversation True / False 11 11
detailed - dialogue
understanding
Length of texts : ovarall - five minutes.
Lesen - Figure 6
SUBTEST AIM TEXT TYPE EXERCISE ITEMS MARKS
TYPE
1 Global and Notices on the Multiple 6 6
selective reading notice board choice
2 Detailed reading Letters to the True / false 10 10
editor
3 Global and Narrative text Questions 4 4
selective reading
Overall length of texts : 550 - 600 words
Schreiben - Figure 7
AIM OF TEXT TYPE TYPE OF EXERCISE MARKS
EXAMINATION
Written production as Letter Presentation of a text : advert 8
reaction to language as occasion for writing.
stimulus Four points of content
Length of text : approx 80 – 100 words
Sprechen - Figure 8
SUBTEST AIM OF TEXT STIMULUS MARKS
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EXAMINATION STRUCTURE
1 Introducing oneself Monologue Examiner’s 1
invitation
2a Put question to a given Dialogue Word cards 4
topic
2b Answer question put Dialogue Questions 4
by pupil-partner
3 Appropriate reaction to monologue Situation card 3
a given situation
Oral examination groups : 2 pupils, 2 examiners
C. MATSEC Intermediate Level - University of Malta
2.2. Candidates
The examination IM is intended for pupils at the end of Form VI who have opted for this
level.
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The examination is set by qualified personnel forming a board selected by the University
of Malta for this purpose.
The examination consists of an oral part taken by the candidates individually and of one
written paper.
2.6. Duration
The oral part lasts 10 minutes and the written part lasts 3 hours.
The written scripts will be corrected by the board of examiners who have set the papers,
while the oral part is conducted by one examiner chosen by the University of Malta. The
Chairperson of the Markers and Setters Board will moderate the marking of the papers.
The oral part is allotted 15% of the global mark. The written part consists of the
following parts: a free composition carrying 30%, a comprehension with 30% and a
culture and civilization section with a 25% of the global mark respectively. A certificate
is issued to candidates who have obtained approximately 40 % of the global mark.
1. To offer candidates who have successfully completed the SEC syllabus the
opportunity of studying German at a higher level.
2. to help candidates acquire a higher level than SEC in the following receptive and
productive skills:
(i) the ability to understand the spoken language.
(ii) the ability to read and understand the written language
(iii) the ability to write the language
(iv) the ability to speak and converse in the language.
3. to make the candidates aware of certain aspects of the culture and civilization of the
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German-speaking countries which are essential for an understanding of the countries
and their people.
4. to instill in candidates a love for the language and the people who speak it, which in
turn would motivate them to pursue their studies in greater depth.
The aim of the course is, therefore, to consolidate the level of knowledge obtained at
Waystage level and to extend it to include more advanced concepts, which are dealt with
in a broad manner. Most of these new concepts are included to provide a general and
coherent view of the subject.
(i) Aim
The aim of this part of the examination is to test the candidates` ability to take part in a
conversation about a subject which is not literary and which is not specialized, thereby
communicating effectively in spoken German, to exchange information, ideas and
opinions.
(ii) Format
The oral part of the examination will be carried out as follows: each candidate will be
allowed 10 minutes to read a passage of 200 - 250 words before entering the
examination room. The candidate will not be required to read the text in front of the
examiner. This part of the examination aims at testing the candidates ability to
communicate in good spoken German. The examiner will ask questions about the
contents of the passage to test the candidate’s understanding and ability to express
him/herself in German. The passage will provide material for the conversation. Various
passages will be set, out of which one will be allotted at random to the candidate. The
passages will be non-literary in style and will not deal with any particular specialized
theme. The passages may be descriptive, narrative, argumentative or any combination of
these forms.
(i) Aim
The aim of this part of the examination is to test the candidate’s ability
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- To understand a text written in normal everyday German and react to it
appropriately in writing.
- To demonstrate basic knowledge of aspects of the civilization and culture of the
German-.speaking countries (whereby the predominating role of Germany due to
its sheer size, population and strength in most sectors of the economy, culture and
science should be reflected in the course and the examination itself.
(ii) Format
The written part will consist of one paper. This will include:
a) a free composition of about 250 words carrying 30% of the global mark. It will deal
with a subject to be chosen by the candidate from among six topics offered. These will
be of the narrative and/or argumentative type or any combination of these forms. The
aim of the composition is to test the candidate’s ability to express his/her ideas in writing,
whereby s/he is free to develop the topic in any way s/he likes, as long as what is written
is relevant.
c) Culture and Civilisation carrying 25% of the global mark. This section will consist of
12 questions in all, ten relating to the Federal Republic of Germany and one each about
Austria and Switzerland. Out of these 12 questions the candidate will choose to answer
five. Each question carries 5 marks.
Questions in this section will refer to the most salient aspects concerning the following
topics:
- The Federal Republic of Germany – its position in the heart of Europe; its
neighbours, the important natural features; the people; the language; the most
important events in German history since the end of World War II.
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- The federal system: the federal structure of Germany and its meaning, the 16
federal states, their location and major cities, special characteristics, traditions and
cultural importance for Germany.
- The most important and basic facts relating to geography, political systems and
cultural highlights of Austria and Switzerland.
While questions and answers in this section will be in German, the aim is not to test
the candidate’s proficiency in the language but his/her knowledge of the basic facts
relating to the civilization and the culture of German-speaking countries and their
people. Questions will require short and straightforward answers. They may be of
various types and may also include multiple choice and true/false questions, as well
as questions relating to the map of Germany and/or Austria / Switzerland. In this
section only no marks will be deducted for spelling and grammatical mistakes.
This written part of the examination is allowed three hours and carries 85% of the
global mark.
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APPENDICES
81
VANTAGE (B2) Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both
concrete and abstract topics, including technical
discussions in his/her field of specialization. Can interact
with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes
regular interaction with native speakers quite possible
without strain for either party. Can produce clear,
detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a
viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and
disadvantages of various options.
THRESHOLD (B1) Can understand the main points of clear standard input on
familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school,
leisure, etc. can deal with most situations likely to arise
whilst traveling in an area where the language is spoken.
Can produce simple connected text on topics which are
familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences
and events , dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give
reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.
82
A further breakup of the levels A1, A2 and B1 follows on the next page.
(A1) BREAKTHROUGH
83
example entering my name, nationality and
address on a hotel registration form.
(A2) WAYSTAGE
84
Writing I can write short, simple notes and
messages relating to matters in areas of
immediate need. I can write a very simple
personal letter, for example thanking
someone for something.
(B1) THRESHOLD
85
briefly give reasons and explanations for
opinions and plans. I can narrate a story or
relate the plot of a book or film and
describe my reactions.
Listening
Reading
86
- I can understand some indications on sign boards in shopping centers such as
Sportartikel, Lebensmittel, Computerabteilung.
- I can understand the most important orders in a computer programme such as
speichern, öffnen, schließen.
- I can understand simple directions such as oben links, geradeaus, nach rechts.
- I can understand short simple messages on postcards, e.g., holiday greetings.
- In everyday situations I can understand simple messages written by friends or
colleagues, e.g., bin um 4 Uhr zurück.
Spoken Interaction
- I can introduce somebody and use basic greeting and leave-taking expressions.
- I can make myself understood in a simple way but I am dependent on my partner
being prepared to repeat more slowly and rephrase what I say and to help me say
what I want.
- I can make simple purchases where pointing or other gestures can support the
verbal reference.
- I can handle numbers, quantities, cost and time.
- I can ask people for things and give people things.
- I can ask people questions about where they live, people they know, things they
have, etc. and answer such questions addressed to me provided they are
articulated clearly and slowly.
- I can indicate time by such phrases as nächste Woche, letzten Freitag, im
November, um drei Uhr.
- I can ask and answer simple questions, initiate and respond to simple statements
in areas of immediate need or on very familiar topics.
Spoken production
Writing
- I can fill in a questionnaire with my personal details (job, age, address, hobbies).
- I can write a greeting card, for instance a birthday card.
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- I can write a simple postcard (e.g., with holiday greetings).
- I can write a note to tell somebody where I am or where we are to meet.
- I can write sentences and simple phrases about myself, e.g., where I live and what
I do.
This level would have been reached if 80% of these abilities are attained.
Listening
Reading
- I can read a very short message about a concrete event and understand what
happened when and where.
- I can identify important information in messages or simple newspaper articles in
which numbers and names play an important role and which are clearly structured
and illustrated.
- I can understand a very short narrative on everyday topics if written in simple
language.
- I can understand a simple personal letter in which the writer tells me about aspects
of everyday life.
- I can understand simple written messages from friends or colleagues, e.g, saying
when we should meet to play football or asking me to be at work early.
- I can understand advertisements where firms present new products or make
special offers and understand the main points.
- I can find the most important information on leisure time activities , exhibitions,
etc. in information leaflets.
- I can identify some pieces of information in short, simple, factual texts (e.g., the
results in the sports section of a newspaper) and understand some expressions,
e.g., the illustrated weather forecast.
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- I can skim small advertisements in newspapers, locate the heading or column I
want and identify the most important pieces of information (price and size of
apartments, cars, computers).
- I can understand instructions if they consist of single sentences or if they are
illustrated (e.g., safety instructions in a hotel room or the train).
- I can understand simple user’s instructions for equipment (e.g. a public
telephone).
- I can understand feedback messages or simple help indications in computer
programmes.
- I can understand short narratives about everyday things dealing with topics which
are familiar to me if the text is written in simple language.
Spoken interaction
Spoken production
Writing
- I can describe an event in simple sentences and report what happened when and
where (e.g. a party or an accident).
- I can write about aspects of my everyday life in simple phrases and sentences
(people, places, job, school, family , hobbies).
- I can write a very simple personal letter inviting or thanking somebody.
- I can explain where I live and how to get there.
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- I can fill a questionnaire giving an account of my educational background, my
job, my interests and my specific skills.
- I can briefly introduce myself in a letter with simple phrases and sentences
(family, school, job, hobbies).
- I can write simple sentences, connecting them with words such as und, aber,
weil, denn.
- I can write a letter using simple expressions for greeting, addressing, asking or
thanking somebody.
- I have a sufficiently large vocabulary to give general information about myself
and my everyday life.
- I can use the most important connecting words to indicate the chronological order
of events (zuerst, dann, nachher, später) .
Strategies
Language quality
- I can make myself understood using memorized phrases and single expressions.
- I can use link groups of words with simple connectors like und, aber, weil.
- I can use some simple structures correctly.
- I have sufficient vocabulary for coping with simple everyday situations.
This level would have been reached if 80% of these abilities are attained.
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Appendix 4 - Can do statements for level (B1) Threshold
Listening
Reading
- I can understand the main points in short newspaper articles about current and
- familiar topics.
- I can read and sufficiently understand factual texts written in a simple language
and for a wide public and which deal with topics within my field of interest or my
area of academic or professional speciality.
- I can read columns or interviews in newspapers and magazines in which someone
takes a stand on a current topic or event and understand the meaning of the text.
- I can guess the meaning of single unknown words from the context, thus deducing
the meaning of expressions if the topic is familiar.
- I can skim short texts (e.g., short messages) and find relevant facts and
information (e.g., who has done what and where).
- I can extract relevant information from short official texts meant for the public
(e.g., school rules or municipal regulations).
- I can understand the most important information in short simple everyday
information brochures.
- I can understand simple messages and standard letters (e.g., from business, clubs
or authorities).
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- In private letters I can understand those parts dealing with events, feelings and
wishes well enough to correspond regularly with a pen friend.
- I can recognize the most important standard letters (e.g., in a computer
correspondence programme) and understand them well enough to adapt them to
my needs).
- I can understand literary texts with a basic vocabulary and a simple
straightforward plot.
- I can understand the plot of a clearly structured story and recognize what the most
important episodes and events are and what is significant about them.
Spoken interaction
- I can start, maintain and close simple face-to-face conversation on topics that are
familiar or of personal interest.
- I can maintain a conversation or discussion but may sometimes be difficult to
follow when trying to say exactly what I would like to.
- I can deal with most situations likely to arise when making travel arrangements
through an agent or when actually travelling.
- I can cope with less routine situations on public transport e.g., asking a passenger
where to get off for an unfamiliar destination.
- I can ask for and follow detailed directions.
- I can sometimes take the initiative in a conversation (e.g., to bring up a new
subject) but I am very dependent on my partner in the interaction.
- I can express and respond to feelings such as surprise, happiness, sadness, interest
and indifference.
- I can enter unprepared into conversations on familiar topics.
- I can agree and disagree politely.
- I can give or seek personal views and opinions in an informal discussion with
friends.
- I can make my opinions and reactions understood as regards solutions to problems
or practical questions of where to go or what to do.
Spoken production
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- I can explain and give reasons for my plans, intentions and actions.
- I can give straightforward descriptions on a variety of familiar subjects within my
field of interest.
- I can relate the plot of a book or film and describe my reactions.
- I can reasonably fluently relate a straightforward narrative or description as a
linear sequence of points.
- I can paraphrase short written passages orally in a simple fashion, using the
original text wording and ordering.
Writing
Strategies
- I can repeat back part of what someone has said to confirm that we understand
each other.
- I can ask someone to clarify or elaborate what they have just said.
- When I cannot think of the word I want, I can use a simple word meaning
something similar and invite correction.
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Language quality
- I can keep a conversation going comprehensibly, but have to pause to plan and
correct what I am saying – especially when I talk freely for longer periods.
- I can convey simple information of immediate relevance , getting across which
point I feel is most important.
- I have sufficient vocabulary to express myself with some circumlocutions on most
topics pertinent to my everyday life such as family, hobbies and interests, work,
travel and current events.
- I can express myself reasonably accurately in familiar, predictable situations.
This level would have been reached if 80% of these abilities are attained.
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