- Spring 2021
Syllabus Description:
LIEDERCIRCUS 2021!
German through Song (German 307)
In this conversation course, we will practice German by listening to and talking about songs. Class sessions will be a friendly environment in which students can speak German, expand their vocabulary, and make ‘mistakes’ without penalty. (You will not be required to sing!) Much of the course material will be chosen by students, as they discover and share German songs they love. We will learn about the cultural impact of popular music and musicians, from Folk Songs to Krautrock, from Kinderlieder to German Rap. The song lyrics we discuss will also give us a way to practice and improve the science and art of translation.
Expectations: participation in class discussion; presentation of songs; translation of lyrics. Other details will be determined together with students in our first session.
Learning goals: improve conversational German; vocabulary building; improve accuracy and style of translation; learn about German culture through song lyrics and the social context of popular music.
Prerequisite: German 103 or equivalent.
Course material and discussion in German.
Course meetings remote and synchronous.
Note: This course may supplement German 322 (taught in English), but can be taken independently.