Unit information: Introduction to German Studies (Post A-Level) in 2015/16

Unit name	Introduction to German Studies (Post A-Level)
Unit code	GERM10013
Credit points	40
Level of study	C/4
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Dr. Davies
Open unit status	Open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Department of German
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This unit introduces the study of German literature, history, linguistics and culture from the Middle Ages to the present through close study of representative texts and ideas. It aims to help students develop their skills of critical analysis and synthesis, informed discussion and the written presentation of ideas. It consists of:

a lecture series on one or more aspects of modern German culture a lecture series on themes in modern German and Austrian society a lecture series ('Landeskunde') on the history of German and Austria one seminar class per semester designed to Introduce and consolidate skill in one of the discipline taught in the German department (broadly: literature, linguistics, and history.

Practical guidance on writing essays and commentaries is built into the discussion classes.

Aims:

• To introduce students to the study of German literature, history, linguistics and culture through close study of representative texts which exemplify historical, literary and linguistic developments from the Middle Ages to the present

• To develop in students the skills required for advanced study, informed discussion, independent thought and the written presentation of ideas

To complement / provide a solid basis for other units in the German Department.

Intended Learning Outcomes

• Gain a clear understanding of key developments in German literature, history, linguistics and culture from the Middle Ages to the present

• Develop their ability for critical analysis, informed discussion and independent thought.

Receive practical guidance on the oral and written presentation of ideas

Teaching Information

• One lecture on German history and culture per week in both semesters

• Two weekly semester-long seminars in both semesters

Assessment Information

Landeskunde essay (10%), 2 hour poetry exam (20%), 2 hour history exam (20%), 1500 word essay (25%), 1.5 hour linguistics exam (25%).

Reading and References

A selection of texts from the different disciplines (History, Linguistics, Literature, Mediaeval Studies); the precise texts may vary from year to year