What it’s about
After 10 years of teaching German in comprehensive education, I felt it was time to create a resource that would help inspire pupils, raise their motivation and prompt a greater curiosity about contemporary German society, writes Kirsten Herbst-Gray. I wanted to give them a feeling of achievement, which would convince them to carry on with the subject post- 16.
The resource also needed to be teacher-friendly, easy to use and save preparation and research time on lesson planning, exam revision and homework setting. Above all, it should be fun.
After three months working with Zigzag Education, we finally got there. There are 15 source texts on current and authentic German issues, designed to interest young people and combined with activities that cover comprehension questions and offer grammar revision. They also encourage reflective and independent learning. Writing activities allow learners to apply their language skills and develop creativity in German, and some topics encourage further exploration and guided internet research.
The texts range from facts about the Berlin TV Tower, to mobile phones, to Formula 1, and the modern German band Culcha Candela.
What else?
The related activities go beyond the development of dictionary skills and practising reading comprehension. Key grammar issues, such as tense forms, are revised. At the end of each activity block, an extension task encourages pupils to move on to the next level.
German can be fun, and Germany is an interesting country with a rich history and culture. This resource conveys that in a lively and innovative way.
Where to find it
For more details see www.zigzag.atUH98.
