At Seattle Speaks German, we are committed to helping you begin speaking German from your very first class. Our comprehensive courses are designed to equip you with the tools and support necessary to enhance your proficiency, whether you're planning a visit to a German-speaking country or considering a move. Our goal is to provide a strong foundation and boost your confidence in your new language journey.
How do we teach German online?
Read more about the following topics:
Our Teaching Approach
Proficiency Levels
Textbooks
Virtual Classroom
What's Included in Your Course Experience
Course Schedule
List of current courses and their content
Private Lessons
Our Teaching Approach
We emphasize active speaking in our classes, enabling you to build your German skills through meaningful, task-based exercises. Rather than just learning vocabulary and grammar in isolation, you'll apply them in real-world scenarios, like planning a trip, giving recommendations, or solving everyday challenges in German. This research-backed approach ensures you build a solid foundation rather than just memorizing phrases.
Our curriculum is carefully selected and continuously updated to suit the online learning environment. Beyond grammar, we focus on effective learning strategies tailored to your needs and provide insights into the history, geography, and culture of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
With years of experience teaching German, I specialize in modern, interactive online learning that keeps students engaged. My courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), ensuring structured progress with up-to-date materials that complement your course book. I continuously refine my teaching approach to bring you the best online learning experience, incorporating interactive exercises, real-world materials, and modern teaching techniques.
Whether you're a complete beginner or returning to German after a long break, progress takes time and consistency. Students who thrive here show up prepared, engage actively, and treat each class like the real commitment it is. In return, you'll find a structured, encouraging environment where your German genuinely moves forward, quarter by quarter.
Proficiency Levels
Our courses and private lessons adhere to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), which classifies proficiency from beginner (A1) to mastery (C2). Typically, achieving a level such as A1 or A2 requires completing eight courses at Seattle Speaks German, with each course comprising 12 hours of live instruction and 8 hours of homework. Individual factors like prior language learning experience and motivation significantly influence the pace of progression.
Textbooks
For our online classes, we utilize the "Das Leben" series from Cornelsen, designed for both online and face-to-face instruction. These textbooks include a workbook for homework exercises and are complemented by audio and video content accessible via the free PagePlayer App. Depending on your course level, you'll need "Das Leben A1," "Das Leben A2," or "Das Leben B1," each priced at $46. We recommend ordering from this website. For advanced students, we use "Vielfalt" from Hueber, with advanced classes available exclusively through private lessons.
Virtual Classroom
Our virtual classroom is a valuable tool that complements our Zoom meetings. It offers an overview of lessons, helps you track your progress, provides meaningful exercises, and facilitates connections with fellow learners. Each student receives a personal account to access these resources.
What's Included in Your Course Experience
- Office hours - Weekly drop-in support sessions for extra help
- Word lists - Available to listen to, print, or work with offline
- Extra grammar review slides - Access materials on your own time
- Modern whiteboard/slideshows - Shared after each class (no recordings!)
- Virtual classroom - Track progress, exercises, connect with fellow learners
- All coursebook bonus materials - Extra resources included
- Community of learners - You're not learning alone
Course Schedule
Group courses are organized into quarters, with each Fall Quarter introducing a new beginner course for students with no prior German knowledge. Subsequent quarters offer continued progression through higher levels.
Embark on your German learning journey with us and experience a supportive, engaging, and culturally enriching environment.
Here is a list of current courses and their content.
Beginner Level 1
For this course no previous knowledge of German is required!
„Wie heißen Sie?“
(What's your name?)
Imagine you are visiting a German-speaking country. What better way to show your interest and curiosity than learn the language? In this course you will learn to use basic phrases with confidence and ask your own questions. If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.
You will learn:
This course introduces to the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. Join us to get started with German in a supportive atmosphere to gain confidence speaking. You will expand your vocabulary and learn new grammar. The course is held via Zoom and a virtual classroom. If you have any questions please get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, we hold open office hours — this is a special time we’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben - A1
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 12.
Summer Bridge: Aynchronous Course
German Summer Bridge: Keep Your Momentum
For students between Beginner Level 3 and 4
Don't let your German skills fade over summer! This 4-week asynchronous course helps you maintain and strengthen your German between spring and fall quarters.
What you'll do:
- Work through practical writing exercises at your own pace
- Receive personalized weekly feedback from Frieda
- Connect with fellow Level 3 graduates in our forum
- Review and consolidate grammar from Levels 1-3
Perfect for:
- Students completing Beginner Level 3
- Anyone wanting to stay sharp for Level 4
- Busy schedules (no fixed meeting times!)
Course details:
- 4 weeks, fully asynchronous
- Weekly writing assignments with individual feedback
- Virtual classroom access
- Forum community
Note: This is a self-paced online course without Zoom meetings. Minimum 4 participants required.
Time & Berlin
Beginner Level 3
„Hast du Zeit? Wir fahren nach Berlin!“
(Do you have time? We're going to Berlin!)
Imagine you’re planning a trip to Berlin or another German-speaking city. You're making plans when you will travel and what sights you want to see. Getting oriented in a new city is fun, but can also be overwhelming. Even at home planning a daily routine can be a great challenge. You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.
You'll learn:
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To understand the date and time
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To make an appointment
-
To talk about daily routine
-
To talk about sights in Berlin
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To name means of transportation
-
To give directions
This course continues the introduction to the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. Join us to continue learning German in a supportive atmosphere to gain confidence speaking. You will expand your vocabulary and learn new grammar. The course is held via Zoom and a virtual classroom. Note: For this course a little bit of German knowledge is required — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me for that.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, we hold open office hours — this is a special time we’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben - A1
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Work & Leisure Time
Beginner Level 4
For this course some previous knowledge of German is required!
„Arbeit & Freizeit“
(Work & leisure time)
Imagine you’re moving to a German-speaking city and starting a new job. You have to get oriented in a new building and greet your new colleagues. Deciding who to address formally or informally isn't easy! Perhaps you would like to continue your favorite sport or other leisure-time activities and meet new people. You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.
You'll learn:
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To talk about a company
-
To get oriented in a building
-
To name rooms and items in the office
-
To greet people in professional life
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To say what leisure-time activities you like and what you are able to do
-
To talk about hobbies and sports
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To talk about a location or city
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To say where you have been
This course continues the introduction to the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. Join us to continue learning German in a supportive atmosphere to gain confidence speaking. You will expand your vocabulary and learn new grammar. The course is held via Zoom and a virtual classroom. Note: For this course a little bit of German knowledge is required — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me for that.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, we hold open office hours — this is a special time we’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben - A1
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Body & Clothing
Beginner Level 6
For this course some previous knowledge of German is required!
„Körper & Kleidung“
(Body & Clothing)
Imagine you are visiting your friend or your partner's family in a German-speaking country. What better way to show your interest and curiosity than learn the language? In this course you will learn to talk about the body and health and about clothing. If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.
You will learn:
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To talk about sports and name body parts
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To talk about health and illness
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To give commands and tips
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To talk about clothing
-
To express your likes and dislikes
-
To go shopping
This course introduces to the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. Join us to get started with German in a supportive atmosphere to gain confidence speaking. You will expand your vocabulary and learn new grammar. The course is held via Zoom and a virtual classroom. If you have any questions please get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Just write me an email.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, we hold open office hours — this is a special time we’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben - A1
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Off on vacation
Beginner Level 7
For this course previous knowledge of German is required!
„Ab in den Urlaub“
(Off on vacation)
Completing the Beginner Series
This 4-week course is for students who have completed the previous Beginner Levels and are ready to finish the A1 journey before moving into A2 in the fall.
We'll explore topics that bring German-speaking countries to life: travel, dream destinations, trip planning, and the festivals and celebrations that make summer in the German-speaking world special. One highlight is writing your own postcard in German to share with a fellow student.
Grammar and vocabulary are introduced with clear explanations and plenty of practice. Interactive activities and real-life scenarios help you build confidence in speaking and understanding German.
In our last session we'll practice the A1 speaking test together, so you can see how far you've come and feel prepared if you choose to take an official exam.
This course completes the Beginner Level course series to the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. The course is held via Zoom and a virtual classroom. If you have questions please get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Just write me an email.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, we hold open office hours — this is a special time we’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben - A1
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Long time no see!
Intermediate Level 1
"Lange nicht gesehen!"
(Long time no see!)
Imagine you're planning a high school reunion or another big event in a German-speaking city. You have to write invitations and organize where and when to meet. You have to plan the trip, compare options and availabilities. At the event you have to talk about yourself and pass on information. You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.
You'll learn:
This course consolidates knowledge from previous courses and builds the foundation for the A2-proficiency level. You will expand your knowledge about important vocabulary and grammar. As always, the spoken communication is the priority. The course is held via Zoom and a virtual classroom. Note: For this course basic German knowledge is required — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Just contact us.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, I hold open office hours — this is a special time I’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben A2
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Working World & Books
Intermediate Level 3
"Moderne Arbeitswelt & die Welt der Bücher"
(Modern Working World & Let's talk books)
Imagine you're starting a new job in a German-speaking country. How do you write a formal email at work there? Or how do you communicate effectively with co-workes and your boss? You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! If you have plans to move to Europe for a job in Germany, Austria or Switzerland or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.
You'll learn to:
-
Talk about how you used to work and what your workplace looks like now
-
Name advantages and disadvantages
-
Communicate effectively in the workplace
-
Talk about your reading preferences
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Describe pictures
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Read and write biographical information
This course continues to build the foundation for the A2-proficiency level. You will expand your knowledge about important vocabulary and grammar. As always, the spoken communication is the priority. The course is held via Zoom and a virtual classroom. Note: For this course basic German knowledge is required — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, I hold open office hours — this is a special time I’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben A2
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Leben mit Tieren & Stadtportait: Frankfurt am Main
Intermediate Level 4
„Leben mit Tieren & Stadtportrait: Frankfurt am Main"
(Life with Animals & City Portrait: Frankfurt am Main)
Whether you have a pet, enjoy going to the zoo, or just like being in nature, animals are all around! Through this course, we will use animals as a vehicle to learn and practice German. In the second half of the course, we will take a closer look at Frankfurt am Main. This modern German metropolis will be a jumping off point to discuss global and regional cultures.
You'll learn to:
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Describe things using superlatives, and adjectives with the dative case
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Ask indirect questions about people, places, and things
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Talk about a city or region you have visited
-
Report the regional dishes and specialties of a city
-
Expand sentences using relative clauses effectively
Note - For this course the following is required:
-
Basic German knowledge — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.
-
The textbook Das Leben A2. You can order the book here. You can read more about the textbook here.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, we hold open office hours — this is a special time we’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben A2
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Alltag und Abenteuer
Intermediate Level 5
"Alltag und Abenteuer: Vom Tagesablauf bis zum Sommerfest"
(Everyday Life and Adventure: From Daily Routines to Summer Festivals )
Imagine living your daily life in a German-speaking country—how do you describe your morning routine or chat about the tasks you need to do at home? What if you’re at a summer festival and want to join in the excitement, talk about music, or ask for prices at a stand? You’ll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! Whether you’re planning a trip to Europe, preparing for a cultural experience, or just looking to deepen your German skills, this course is for you.
You'll learn to:
-
Describe and talk about daily routines.
-
Talk about household tasks and responsibilities.
-
Engage in conversations about music and festivals.
-
Ask for prices and negotiate discounts effectively.
-
Express moods and excitement using appropriate vocabulary.
-
Understand and write clear, concise reports.
This course continues to build the foundation for the A2-proficiency level. You will expand your knowledge of essential vocabulary and grammar, while maintaining a focus on spoken communication. The course is held via Zoom and includes access to a virtual classroom.
Note - For this course the following is required:
- Basic German knowledge — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.
- The textbook Das Leben A2. You can order the book here. You can read more about the textbook here.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, I hold open office hours — this is a special time I’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben A2
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Hoch hinaus und tief verbunden
Intermediate Level 7
"Hoch hinaus und tief verbunden: Abenteuer und Beziehungen"
(Reaching High and Deeply Connected: Adventures and Relationships)
Imagine planning a hiking vacation in the Austrian Alps and confidently discussing trail options with locals, or navigating the nuances of friendships and conflicts in a German-speaking environment. What if you want to describe your favorite film to new friends, give thoughtful advice during a disagreement, or understand regional differences across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland? You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! Whether you're planning outdoor adventures in German-speaking countries, looking to deepen personal relationships, or wanting to understand cultural nuances across the D-A-CH region, this course is ideal for you.
You'll learn to:
- Discuss hiking vacations and understand regional D-A-CH vocabulary differences
- Conduct advice-giving conversations and express emotions appropriately
- Describe films and navigate friendship dynamics
- Handle conflicts, reconciliation, and gift-giving conversations
- Present statistical information and provide commentary effectively
This course continues to build the foundation for the A2-proficiency level. You will expand your knowledge of essential vocabulary and grammar related to environmental topics and practical skills, while maintaining a focus on spoken communication. The course is held via Zoom and includes access to a virtual classroom.
Note - For this course the following is required:
- Basic German knowledge — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.
- The textbook Das Leben A2. You can order the book here. You can read more about the textbook here.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, I hold open office hours — this is a special time I’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben A2
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.
Landluft
Intermediate Level 8
"Landluft: Rural Germany Expericne"
Imagine interviewing locals about traditional village life in rural Germany, understanding snippets of regional dialects like Plattdeutsch, or having meaningful conversations about village culture and traditions. What if you want to compare how rural life has changed from past to present, or discuss the unique aspects of countryside living? You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this A2 course!
You'll learn to:
- Describe village life and rural traditions
- Conduct video interviews with locals
- Compare past and present village life
- Understand regional dialect features (Plattdeutsch)
This course completes your A2-proficiency level foundation. You will master essential vocabulary and grammar for discussing cultural topics and personal aspirations, while maintaining a focus on spoken communication. The course is held via Zoom and includes access to a virtual classroom.
Note - For this course the following is required:
- Basic German knowledge — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.
- The textbook Das Leben A2. You can order the book here. You can read more about the textbook here.
Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 10:45am and 11:30am, I hold open office hours — this is a special time I’ve set aside just for students in the group courses! It’s a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you’re welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours — no appointment necessary!
Textbook: Das Leben A2
Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.
A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximu