Using Film to Build Writing Proficiency in a Second‐Year Language Class

Abstract

ABSTRACT While the proficiency movement has produced numerous books and articles that deal primarily with oral proficiency, little has been published on the subject of writing proficiency. This article describes the writing curriculum for the first semester of a second‐year German course, designed using the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines as a framework. A traditional review grammar gives students practice manipulating words and sentences while films provide the context for creative, communicative writing. By the end of the semester, all students have mastered Intermediate‐level functions, while many can perform at the Advanced level.