German instruction from local native and near-native instructors in class sizes of 7–12 students. We engage the whole student in learning vocabulary, grammar and culture: students learn through traditional bookwork, songs, dances, games and craft activities. We build a school community in classrooms and in large group settings, with instruction in speaking, reading, and writing. AATG Test/AP Prep programs are available. Classes for students aged 6–18 are available in two immersion tracks, one for those just learning German, and one for native speakers. In the Spielgruppe, Kindergarten, and Advanced Adult classes, a mix of native and non-native speakers build on each others' strengths in an immersion setting. In the Beginner Adult class, partial immersion supports student understanding while they develop their language skills.

The intent of the Spielgruppen is to build a foundation of German and familiarity with the cultures of Germany, Austria and Switzerland for our youngest students. The children will experience 2.5 hours of German immersion through songs, games, videos, activities and, of course, play. Children of this age can effortlessly absorb language to which they are exposed. This “Spielgruppe” is great for anyone wanting their child to be enriched socially and cognitively while making new friends and learning German.

Children increase their vocabulary with classroom lessons and by working in alphabet books. Topics covered during the year will be the family, all about me, introductions, body parts, animals, the Alphabet, colors, numbers, and German traditions throughout the year. Stories and songs are still a large part of this class as well as puppet plays and games. Both native and non-native children are combined in an immersion setting.

At these levels, it is important to maintain a balance of playing while learning German and acquiring the necessary skills to progress. The first two classes are a mix of native and non-native speakers but taught primarily in German. Children learn to read short poems, songs, and repetitive stories to foster a sense of accomplishment and success. Language games introduce or expand vocabulary and help in understanding sentence structure. Verbs and action are a main focus at this age as children are active in learning who can do what, (subject/verb) where and how they do something (preposition/adjective/adverb) and why they do something (clauses). They also begin to use writing skills to communicate in German. German customs and traditions are taught through craft projects and cultural events. Children leave the Grundstufe I (6/7 year old) group and enter either the native speaking Grundstufe II (8/9 year old) group, or the mixed level Grundstufe II.

This is a more traditional class of students learning German as a foreign language. Workbooks are used to learn new concepts and practice language skills. At this age, students learn language alongside grammar through games, skits and plays, and dialogue to reinforce language learned. Learning song lyrics from current popular German songs helps keep students connected with the things they enjoy in their own lives.

The students of this class have proven language skills and work toward maintaining skills and learning advanced language concepts. Through speaking, reading comprehension, and writing of more complex language, students continue to expand and polish their knowledge of German.

Introduction to German includes speaking, writing, reading and comprehension of language basics. Workbook used to help introduce language concepts. Songs, literature, and dialogue help expand vocabulary and give review of concepts learned.

Largely conversational classes for students with language skills wishing to use their language and or review concepts of grammar and vocabulary. Basic listening and reading comprehension skills along with basic writing skills required. Most importantly, a willingness to use oral German to improve skills!

Classes meet Thursday evenings from 6:30-8PM at the German Haus at 7901 SE Division Street. Tuition for this class is the same as the regular Saturday classes when paying for the entire year or tuition may be paid per session (approximately 10 classes per session). Please clearly indicate either “Thursday evening” on your registration form. Classes begin the first Thursday in October.