Abstract
Learning the German language holds great significance in today’s world, as it opens up vast opportunities for education, professional growth, and cultural development. In a globalized society, knowledge of foreign languages is a hallmark of an educated person. English plays a crucial role in all areas of life – science, technology, economics, culture, and beyond. At the same time, proficiency in an additional foreign language significantly broadens the prospects for future professionals. German-speaking countries are distinguished by a high level of economic development and require qualified specialists with a deep knowledge of the language. Many Ukrainian universities offer students the opportunity to study two or more foreign languages, with English typically being the first.This article examines the key aspects of learning German as a second foreign language after English, using qualitative research methods and, in particular, comparative analysis. Since English is usually studied earlier and for a longer period, proficiency in English provides a strong foundation for successfully mastering German. The task of a German language lecturer is to leverage students’ existing knowledge of English to facilitate the learning process, as German is easier to acquire when there is already a solid foundation in English. Although teaching German as a second foreign language presents certain challenges, they can be overcome through effective methodological approaches.The content of learning German as a second language includes a range of interconnected and interdependent components. The learning process is structured based on a concentric approach, which involves revisiting topics at each stage of learning with gradual deepening and expansion of thematic content. Instructors should consider the systemic organization of both languages, as well as the fact that the fundamental forms and methods of teaching a foreign language remain unchanged. The core principles of teaching German after English help structure the learning process in a way that enables students to acquire the language more quickly and effectively.Practical importance of the research lies in the fact that the principles, described in the article, can be used by German lecturers while teaching German as a second language after English. The article also describes the techniques of minimizing the negative interference of English when learning German, that holds practical value for the lecturers in the process of planning German language lessons in higher education institutions where German is taught as a second language after English.
Published Version
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