Intensive German at Syracuse

Abstract

ArrFTER the impressive array of reports on intensive language courses in the last January issue of the GERMAN QUARTERLY this brief contribution might seem to be superfluous. However, as a perhaps typical reaction to that stimulating Symposium and because of some original features, the following lines may be of interest. The first intensive German course in the modern sense1 was introduced at Syracuse University in fall 1945. During the first semester, 9, contact hours were offered, 6 hours in Conversation and 3 in Analysis carrying 6 credits. Mimeographed material was used containing the essentials of grammar, a number of exercises, dialogues, songs, and poems. Shortly before mid-term, Zeydel's Graded Reader for Beginners was introduced and comfortably finished by the end of the semester. Needless to say, the aural-oral method was used throughout and a modified direct method applied. Whenever possible, the meaning of new words was acquired by means of associations, e.g. through symbols, synonyms, antonyms, defiinitions, illustrations, action, objects, pictures, etc. Spelling was always done in German. Zeydel's text was read for comprehension and served as a basis for conversation in the shape of questions and answers, reports, and dialogues. Frequent oral tests and several written examinations were given and one recording was made. The attitude of the students was excellent throughout the course, but care had to be taken with the memorization of dialogues. All students enjoyed especially one aspect of the aural-oral method, namely, talking in pairs on prepared topics with the instructor acting as a guide and critic while walking from group to group. A feeling of ease was thus obtained which resulted in a faster acquisition of a speaking ability than was possible otherwise. Frequent mistakes were discussed in front of the class. The final examination consisted of three parts: