Newsletter - American Association of Teachers of German

Newsletter
American Association of Teachers of German, Inc.
Volume 49, Number 5, October 2014
In this Issue …
AATG Teacher Recruitment Initiative
Annual Meeting with ACTFL Update
Online Professional Consultant Directory
German Summer Study 2015
Artig 3.0 USA Tour
2015 NGE Registration
Meet the 2014 AATG Scholars
ZfA and Goethe USA News
Offers from Professional Partners
Advocacy Pointers
A Word from the President
Dear Colleagues,
I will never forget my colleague Linda Butt from Loyola Blakefield School in Baltimore who
one day called me and said: “Hi Mohamed. One of my students told me that if you want
something done, then ask a busy person.” I responded to her: “Ok, Linda. Whatever you
want, I will do it.” I knew that she had something in mind related to either a conference or
a school activity. She invited me to give two presentations for foreign language teachers at
the annual convention of the Independent Schools in Maryland. The conference would
take place in Baltimore. The reason why I said yes is simple. I want to help my colleagues,
even if it causes me less sleep and more stress for a few days.
This is my 22nd year in the United States and I must say that these have been the best years of my life. From my
humble beginnings until today, I have met, worked with, relied on many wonderful colleagues who have became very
good friends. I will never forget the day in March, 1994, when I met AATG members Maureen Helinski, Shirley Santora,
Germaine Wolff, Simon Richter and others at the Maryland AATG Spring Conference at Johns Hopkins University.
Maureen nominated me (appointed me with an arm twist) as chapter president at that meeting. Now, 20 years later
and thanks to all of you who believed in and still believe in me, I am proudly serving as the president of the AATG.
In 1995 we started German-American Day at my college, an event meant to strengthen the relationship between
colleges and middle and high schools. We called the event at that time “Building Bridges of Friendships for Future
Partnerships.” In the first year we had 220 students from 6 different schools in attendance. I am very proud to say that
this year we are celebrating the 20th anniversary with more than 1450 students, teachers, chaperones, professors and
other guests from 33 various schools from Maryland and Pennsylvania. This event would not have survived and
thrived without the help and support of many dedicated AATG members and friends. I know that I can rely on them
and they also know that they can do the same. Like in Linda’s case, I would do anything to help them when I am called
upon.
The last two months have been very busy for me and I am sure for all of you. I was in Utah, North Carolina, Nebraska,
Boston, and Maryland and will be going to San Francisco, Irvine, San Diego, and Columbus, Ohio. Over the last few
weeks, I met many wonderful colleagues who work hard to strengthen and expand their German programs. I was
especially glad to see many new and young colleagues who have just finished graduate school and started working
and are active in the profession, but also many seasoned and very well respected colleagues who took these younger
teachers under their wings. When I asked how many will be attending our annual meeting in San Antonio, just a few
hands rose. When I asked those who didn’t raise their hands why they were not attending, the vast majority said that
they couldn’t afford it. This is the main reason why we have started active fundraising efforts for the Friends of the
AATG Fund.
Many of you who will be attending the AATG Annual Meeting in conjunction with ACTFL’s Annual Convention in San
Antonio have received our invitation to join us for a special Friends and Funds Reception benefiting the Friends of
AATG Endowment Fund. The event will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2014, from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm in San
Antonio’s historic Menger Hotel, the oldest continuously operating hotel west of the Mississippi. If you haven’t
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reserved your ticket for this special reception, please do so as soon as you can. You can RSVP and register for the
event at Friends and Funds Reception, or call the AATG office (M–F 9:00 am to 5:00 pm EDT) at 856-795-5553 and
the staff will be happy to help. If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute to the Fund, you can do so
online here or by calling the office.
I know how hard you all work and how much you have to fight to keep your programs. One hand cannot clap as
loudly as two hands. Reach out to other colleagues when you need help. Don't wait until it is too late. We need to
get together more often, exchange ideas and get inspired from little things that each one of us is doing. We all have
wonderful success stories to tell. Keep in mind: Geteilte Freude ist doppelte Freude.
Anne Frank wrote in her diary “No one has ever become poor by giving.” On behalf of the Executive Council, I would
like to thank all who have already donated generously to any AATG Fund and we hope that many of you will
consider doing the same. I hope that I will see many of you at the reception on November 20 and many more at the
Business Meeting on Friday, November 21 and at the Awards Presentation on Saturday, November 22.
Mit herzlichen Grüßen
Mohamed Esa
McDaniel College
Westminster, Maryland
[email protected]
Benefitting the Friends of AATG Endowment
Thursday, November 20, 2014, 5:30-7:00 pm
The Menger Hotel
San Antonio, Texas
RSVP and register now
for the Friends and Funds Reception online
or phone AATG at 856-795-5553
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2015 National German Exam for High School Students
Each year the National German Exam is administered to over 20,000 students in the
second, third, and fourth level of German in nearly 700 schools nationwide. The National
German Exam, now in its fifty-fifth year, provides individual diagnostic feedback, rewards
students through an extensive recognition and prize program, and creates a sense of
accomplishment.
Register Students. Order and register online in three easy steps—and this year, you can
easily upload your student roster when registering. You can find a step-by-step tutorial
on how to register at www.aatg.org.
Exam Cost. Exam fees remain $5.00 per student. Register now!
Exam Format. The Exam uses authentic materials that are accessible, interesting, and engaging for high school
students. Question types include multiple choice, matching, and true/false. The 2015 Exam does NOT include any text
completion questions. The exams are comprised of 100 questions divided into two sections, each forty minutes long.
Exam Delivery. The National German Exam is delivered online in an electronic format. To take the Exam, each
student needs access to a computer or tablet connected to the Internet.
Flexibility in Administration. Students may take the Exam in one or two class periods. Schools with a limited
number of computers may administer the Exam over several days or ask students to bring their own device. Schools
may also choose to administer the Exam in another location.
Level 2, 3, and 4 Exams: Register students NOW!
Testing is December 1, 2014 to February 2, 2015
New for 2015! Level 1 National German Exam
Recognizing that German teachers have long wanted an exam for German I students, and that French, Spanish,
Japanese, and Latin exams have existed for that level for many years, the AATG Executive Council authorized the
release of a 2015 National German Exam for Level 1. Now beginning German
students will earn national recognition and prizes for their achievements in German!
The Level 1 Exam is similar in length and structure to the other exams—but tailored
to the knowledge and skills of a beginning German student. Specially designed to
allow German I students to show what they know, the exam will be administered on
a different timeline. Registration for the Level 1 Exam will begin February 1, 2015.
Students will take the Exam between April 1 and May 1.
Students taking the Level 1 Exam have not had the requisite two years of language instruction to qualify for the
AATG/PAD Study Trip Awards. This allows schools to administer the Level 1 Exam on a different timeline from the
level 2, 3, and 4 exams. This later administration will allow up to three more months of German instruction before
students take the test.
Like the exams for more advanced levels, the Level 1 Exam is divided into two sections: Section I assesses listening
and viewing and consists of 50 questions, Section II assesses reading and consists of 50 questions. Students have 40
minutes to complete each section. The content of the exam focuses on family, friends, school, and hobbies.
Level 1 Exam registration and ordering begins February 1, 2015
Testing is April 1 to May 1, 2015
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2015 National German Exam for High School Students
Recognizing Student Achievement Teachers of German know it is important to maximize
opportunities for recognition of their programs. The Presidential Honor Roll recognizes
outstanding students, their schools, and teachers. Students receive Gold, Silver, and Bronze
Certificates and an array of prizes recognizing their accomplishments.
For over 50 years, the Federal Republic of Germany, through the Pädagogischer
Austauschdienst, has provided the AATG/PAD Study Trip Awards. Prizewinners receive roundtrip transportation to Germany, spend 4 weeks living with a host family, attend classes at a
Gymnasium, and participate in various excursions.
The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) has placed the National
German Exam for High School Students on the Advisory List of National Contests and
Activities for 2014-2015.
Free Practice Exams! Complete practice exams for each level of the NGE
are available on our website. Find more National German Exam information,
including frequently asked questions, at www.aatg.org.
October 1, 2014
Level 2, 3, 4 Exam registration begins
November 1, 2014
Deadline for ordering exams to be
administered in December
November 15, 2014
Username/password sent to teachers
who registered by November 1
December 1, 2014
Deadline for ordering exams to be
administered in January
December 1, 2014
Level 2, 3, 4 Exam administration period
begins
December 2, 2014 – January 15, 2015
Late registration period
Note: A $30 late fee will be applied
December 15, 2014
Username/password sent to teachers
who registered by December 1
January 15, 2015
Deadline for late registration
January 16, 2015
Username/password sent to teachers
who registered by January 15
February 2, 2015
Level 2, 3, 4 Exam testing ends
Important
Dates
Order online today
at www.aatg.org
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February 1, 2015
Level 1 Exam registration begins
February 20, 2015
Scores sent electronically to teachers
and Chapter Testing Chairs
March 1, 2015
Deadline for Level 1 Exam
registration and ordering
March 6, 2015
Deadline for student applications for
AATG/PAD Study Trip Awards
March 15, 2015
Level I username/password sent to
teachers
March 31, 2015
Final selection of AATG/PAD Study
Trip Winners
April 1, 2015
Level 1 Exam testing begins
May 1, 2015
Level 1 Exam testing ends
May 12, 2015
Scores for Level 1 Exam sent
electronically to teachers
June/July 2015
AATG/PAD Study Trip
Tomorrow’s German Teachers
Experts estimate that Baby Boomers make up one-third of the nation’s
teachers, and their retirement will leave an increased shortage of educators.
More than half of US educators teaching in secondary schools today are
expected to leave the profession over the next decade, either due to
retirement or new-teacher attrition. The number of people training to be
teachers is declining, and that trend is likely to continue. In the next 10 years,
it is estimated that more than 50% of our nation’s current German teachers
will no longer be teaching. Anecdotal data indicates that each year numerous
German programs are eliminated because no qualified instructor could be
found to replace a retiring teacher. The need to recruit and train new
qualified German teachers is great.
Tomorrow's German Teachers
Recognizing this need, AATG has launched a new initiative, Tomorrow's German Teachers: A Recruitment
Project. The project is generously supported by Netzwerk Deutsch funds from the German Embassy in
Washington, DC. The project, led by a team of AATG members ranging from newbies to soon-to-be-retired baby
boomers, focuses on the early identification of prospective teachers of German to begin averting German
teacher shortages that many times result in program closures.
The project team recently met at the AATG office in Cherry Hill, NJ to develop materials and a social networking
campaign focused on the recruitment of the next generation of teachers of German. Discussions centered
around how to counteract the negative press teaching gets and how to communicate that teaching German is a
wonderful, rewarding profession.
Northeast Regional Representative Gisela Hoecherl-Alden, Assistant Dean and Director of Language Instruction
for all Language Departments at Boston University, is part of the project and reported, “We discussed the
somewhat daunting fact that many German students no longer choose teaching as a viable profession.
Personally, I have been trying to help Dennis-Yarmouth School district on Cape Cod find a full-time middle
school teacher for months now, and it—sadly—looks as though they may have to close the program. For me,
this illustrates perfectly why we came to Cherry Hill. I don't think we needed much convincing that we had to
use our time wisely to develop recruiting strategies, a campaign, and outreach suggestions to reach German
students at the secondary and post-secondary level.”
The team discussed extensively what makes teaching German so special to them: inspiring passion; seeing
students learn to communicate; helping students delve into the intricacies of another culture; seeing how they
grow to love the language and culture; and that as German teachers, they get to know their students better
than other teachers do, because personal communication is the basis for the language class.
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AATG Recruitment Project
A German teaching career requires someone who has the
creativity and flexibility needed to bring a language and culture
to life and engage and inspire students, including those who
think, behave and learn differently. German teachers forge
supportive communities of practice and learning, which in turn,
impact the larger community through out-of-school activities
and parent involvement. Being a German teacher means that
there are always like-minded colleagues out there who are
willing to share their expertise, materials, and passion.
Additional project team members include AATG Vice-President
Hal Boland, German teacher at Heritage High School in
Leesburg, VA; Teresa Breitenthaler, teacher of German at Purcellville High School in Purcellville, VA; Anka Fehling,
Region VI German Language Advisor for the Zentralstelle für das Auslandsschulwesen; Carla Ghanem, Assistant
Professor of German at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ; Lucas Gravitt, teacher of German at Scott County High
School in Georgetown, KY; Alysha Holmquist, German teacher at Enumclaw High School in Enumclaw, WA; Michael
Shaughnessy, Associate Professor of German and Associate Dean for Graduate and International Programs at
Washington & Jefferson College in Washington, PA; Jared Szuba, teacher of German at Chaminade High School in
Mineola, NY; Daphne Warren, German teacher at White Station High School in Memphis, TN; and Gregory Wolf,
Dennis and Jean Bauman Professor in the Humanities at North Central College in Naperville, IL.
Planting the seed that teaching German is a viable and highly rewarding career choice is at the core of the project. The
team has drafted a series of images to promote German teaching and various strategies to be implemented by German
educators when talking with students, parents, and counselors. Additionally, the team has developed a fun quiz and
aptitude test to pique interest in teaching German and attract future exemplary educators. Look for a launch of the
campaign later this year.
According to Hoecherl-Alden, “It was
exciting and exhilarating to spend the
weekend with dedicated German teachers.
We hope that our ideas will lead to a
compelling and successful campaign—and
help us recruit bright, young future German
teachers.” After returning to school
following the meeting, Hal Boland reports,
"I was very excited to share this experience
with my students, hoping to plant the seed.
Their enthusiastic reaction was inspiring."
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Marketing Your German Program
Jon Valentine, Director of Foreign Languages for Gwinnett County Schools, GA, was one of the
keynote speakers at the Mentor Network workshop held in Atlanta earlier this year. Jon provided
insights and strategies on advocacy for the teacher of German.
What makes being a German teacher different than being a teacher of any other language? At
the K-12 level, there is usually only one German teacher in a school, who teaches all German
classes, at all levels. German teachers have to try harder—and are very dedicated!
Maintaining—or increasing—enrollment numbers is a key factor to assure that German programs stay alive and
flourish. Reaching out to encourage all students to learn German is an important step. Tailoring curriculum to
meet student needs and keep students enrolled can be vital. The focus is shifting in the 21st century to language
learning not for its own sake, but as a tool which can provide opportunities for career development.
Teachers should plan curriculum to ensure that all
students can find a connection to German. Not all
students will go on to college—but all of them can
benefit from learning German. Find ways to make
all students succeed. They need to recognize the
relevance of the subject they are learning.
Consider ways of incorporating instructional
materials which include all of the Career and
Technical Education Clusters to reach students
with diverse interests. Use German in class, focus
on comprehensible input, keep your students
engaged—and in the German classroom for
several years.
Career and Technical Education Clusters
Agriculture,
Food, and
Natural
Resources
Education and
Training
Hospitality and
Tourism
Language development takes time. Speak German
in class regularly, focus on comprehension, and
tell your students that they will need language for
Manufacturing
their careers, and that they will go overseas some
day.
Architecture
and
Construction
Arts, A/V
Technology and
Communications
Business,
Management,
and
Administration
Finance
Government and
Public
Administration
Health Science
Human
Services
Information
Technology
Law, Public
Safety,
Corrections, and
Security
Marketing,
Sales and
Service
Science,
Technology,
Engineering, and
Mathematics
(STEM)
Transportation,
Distribution, and
Logistics
Perhaps most importantly, German teachers must learn how to market their
German programs. Germany has the fourth largest economy in the world and
is the world’s second largest exporter. Germany’s trading relationship spans
the major trading countries in Europe and around the world—more than
1,000 German companies do business in the US and more than 2,000 major
American firms do business in German-speaking countries. In this increasingly
interconnected world, learning German gives students a competitive
advantage.
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Advocacy Pointers
How to demonstrate your importance to the administration, and build strong
relationships to support the German program.

Keep your German program visible!

Be “that person” in your school and in your community—
make and maintain connections with students, other
faculty, guidance counselors, the department chair, the
principal, the language coordinator in your district,
colleagues at other teaching levels, and the businesses in
your community.

Have an active chapter of the National German Honor
Society—and invite the principal to be the keynote speaker
at your induction ceremony.

Bring guests to visit your school! Invite a Berater für
Deutschunterricht, a consul, or a business person with
connections to a country where German is spoken.

Have your students take part in National German Week
celebrations, state or local German competitions, camps,
and immersion days.

Promote study abroad. Encourage students to apply for the Congress-Bundestag Exchange. Organize a GAPP
exchange, or send students on AATG’s summer program for high school students.

Reach out to elementary and middle schools to let them know about your program—have your students teach a short
German lesson to the younger students.

Have students participate in the National German Exam and the Advanced Placement exam, or the DSD. Then
publicize your students’ success, both within the school and in the community—spread the word on your school or
district website, in local newspapers, PTA publications, websites, radio programs, or social media.

Be an active member of AATG, attend your local chapter meetings, network with your colleagues. Be active in your
state and regional organizations for foreign language educators.

Prepare an “elevator speech”—a concise, convincing explanation of the positive aspects of your German program you
could present to a stranger in an elevator.

Pursue professional development opportunities to enhance your teaching skills—attend summer seminars or take part
in a webinar.

Take advantage of the rich resources available for teachers of German! Explore AATG’s website and those of AATG’s
professional partners. Make connections with your local Goethe-Institut, get to know your regional Berater für den
Deutschunterricht, connect with other teachers of German at AATG Online. Find further tips at AATG Advocacy Hub.
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Meet the AATG Endowed Scholarship Recipients
Thanks to the generous support of members, the AATG Endowed Scholarship Fund supported six students
to study abroad in Germany this past summer. Meet Spencer, Deana, Anna, Erin, Megan and Stefanie, and
learn how the AATG Endowed Scholarship Fund made a difference in their lives.
Since the Fund was established in 1997, your contributions have enabled 32 students to experience
Germany firsthand. Interested in helping more students experience a life-changing study trip to
Germany? You can make a tax-exempt donation to the Fund at www.aatg.org.
Spencer Diem
Belton High School, Belton, TX. Traveled to Brandenburg an der Havel.
Spencer possesses excellent character, a great work ethic, and a very high aptitude for
learning German. As a model student in class, he sets a great example for his classmates.
Outside of class, he is a voracious German learner, going above and beyond to extend his
study of German language and culture through his own research.
“During my three week stay in Brandenburg an der Havel, I
learned more about the German culture and way of life more
than anything else. In the future, I will have the option to live
in Germany and also pursue a career centered around
German. This experience was an amazing once-in-a-lifetime
chance that I wouldn’t have traded for anything.”
Deana Jackson
Boise High School, Boise, ID. Traveled to Markkleeberg.
Deana is passionate about German language and culture, and she throws herself into learning
everything she can about it. Deana’s family has even hosted two German exchange students.
She is also an active and respected member of her school’s German Club and served as
president this year, and under her leadership, the club has grown and become more active.
“From the excitement, on arrival day, to the bitter
sweetness of departure day, my time in Germany was
everything I could have hoped for. Through this program
my German skills have improved greatly. German will be
invaluable when it comes to pursuing a career. In the fall,
I’ll begin working on my minor in German. This program
helped elevate my skills to the next level and I feel very
prepared to progress in college. ”
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“I never thought three weeks would change my life. I grew more than I
ever imagined. Not only did my language skills improve, but my
confidence in myself increased. German teachers have often described
a feeling of “clicking”: the moment when you don’t feel completely
overwhelmed anymore. This accomplishment for me occurred after four
days of living with my host family. That accomplishment and sense of
finally understanding is a feeling I will never forget.”
Erin McMahon
Bethel Park High School, Bethel Park, PA. Recipient of the Käthe Wilson Scholarship for
Members of Delta Epsilon Phi. Traveled to Braunschweig.
Erin is an intrepid student of German, and she is always one of the first to attempt to use new
concepts and techniques. She is not only involved with her schools German club, but is also
actively involved in their German National Honor Society chapter. She has volunteered to
tutor numerous other German students. Erin also serves as a freshman mentor and lends her
softball talents as a volunteer student-coach.
“I gained a deeper knowledge and understanding of
German culture. I strengthened my vocabulary, grammar,
and my confidence in speaking the language. I plan on
allowing the German language to play a very large role in
my future plans. I am hoping to major in German during
my college experience. I also would like to live abroad in a
German speaking country during University.”
Anna Sprunger
Fargo South High School, Fargo, ND. Traveled to Brandenburg an der Havel.
Anna takes every opportunity she can to learn German, the language of her ancestors,
and she has shown herself to be a quick, dedicated student of the language. She is an
active member of her school’s German Club and has visited local language camps
multiple times to hone her skills. Anna also excels in her other areas of interest,
including playing the flute, for which she won a regional award for solo performance.
Visit www.aatg.org to find out more about the
previous recipients of the Endowed Scholarship
and their experiences in Germany!
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AATG Endowed Scholarship Fund
Benefiting Students through Study Abroad
Megan Stanton
Hillsborough High School, Hillsborough, NJ. Traveled to Beilngries.
Megan’s dedication to her study of German shines through in her enthusiasm and diligence
in class. She brings maturity and sensitivity to her interactions with her other teachers and
peers. Megan takes on a leadership role in the classroom, inspiring her peers with her
creative energy and inquisitiveness. She is passionate about advancing her German skills and
learning new material about Germany.
“Being in Germany allowed me to experience the
current German culture, rather than just reading
about it in school. Through excursions and a few
history lessons in school, I learned more about
German history and was lucky enough to view
many beautiful historical sites. German will
always play a prominent role in my life. I met
some great friends because of this trip, and I
know we will always remain close.”
Stephanie Wong
Boulder High School, Boulder, CO. Recipient of the Helene Zimmer-Loew Endowed Scholarship.
Traveled to Brandenburg an der Havel.
Stephanie has been studying German since middle school, and her drive and enjoyment of
learning as only increased through the years. She is an eloquent, creative presence in class,
and constantly seeks to challenge herself to achieve much more than the minimum in her
German studies. Stephanie is also an accomplished artist and plays viola in the school
orchestra.
“At this point in time, I do not know what I want to
do with my life and my future, but I hope that German
plays a role, whether it’s that I live in Germany for a
short time, or I major in German. I had the most
amazing time in Germany, and it did influence me in
deciding that I want German in my future.”
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AATG’s German Summer Study Program for High School Students provides an excellent opportunity for
teachers who would like an all-expense-paid trip to Germany as a chaperone of an AATG group. AATG is
looking for qualified, experienced members to serve as chaperones for the Summer Study Program and the
National German Exam Prizewinner Program. Find out more about being a chaperone on our website
www.aatg.org/?page=SummerStudyTeachers.
In 2014, eight AATG members traveled to Germany to chaperone groups of students from across the US.
Highlights from 2014 Summer Study Chaperones
“As a teacher, this experience was priceless. My
German was a lot rustier than I realized upon
arrival. You can never underestimate the benefit of
immersion. At the end of three weeks, my words
were no longer getting tongue tied. I was able to
speak as freely and as quickly as I do in English.
What better learning opportunity is there as a
German teacher than to actually have time
speaking German in Germany?
This trip was important for me as a teacher. I
Roxanna Hajjafar (first from right, front row) with her student group.
needed to have this experience to improve not
only my language skills, but to have something to tell my students about. They were so excited to hear that I
had been to Germany and even more excited about the things I brought back for my classroom. Being able to
find things for my classroom that all of my students could benefit from made the trip all the better.“
Roxanna Hajjafar, Kingsbury High School, Memphis, TN—Prizewinner Group Chaperone
„Dass ich durch diese Reise ermöglicht bin, neue
Städte, Dialekte, Regionen und Traditionen näher
kennenzulernen, ist wirklich wunderbar. Ich glaube
sowohl für mich als auch für die Schüler und
Schülerinnen erfüllt dieses Programm genau das, was
es erzielt. Ich habe bestimmt viel gelernt, und die
Schüler haben neue lebenslange Freunde gefunden.
Wenn sie zurückkommen, gehen sie zurück in den
Deutschunterricht voll mit Begeisterung.“
Andy Baker, North Penn High School,
Lansdale, PA—Wiesbaden Group Chaperone
Andy Baker (second from right) with teachers at the Gymnasium in
Wiesbaden.
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New! Chenille Patches
Students can display their love of Deutsch or accomplishment in the German Honor
Society with schwarz-rot-gold Chenille Patches which can be sewn on to a letter
jacket, sweatshirt, bag, or other item. $10.00 each
25 Jahre Mauerfall
Ostalgie im Unterricht
In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Fall of the Berlin Wall,
explore the Ostalgie cultural phenomenon with your students. The
unit prepared by Stephen Van Orden of Timpview High School in
Provo (UT) provides multimedia teaching materials and lessons
plans for seven Ostalgie-related themes: der Trabant, Sächsich,
Good Bye Lenin, Ostrock, DEFA, das Sandmännchen, and der
Hutzenabend. The materials are aimed at the AP German level or
fourth semester college level. $15.00
One Germany - The Other Side of the Wall
(DVD in English or German)
It’s been twenty-five years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Why is
it that many Germans still think of themselves as "Ossis” and
“Wessis?” Does a psychological wall still exist between east and
west? Stasi agents, political prisoners, musicians, politicians, and
comedians paint a picture of the current state of affairs between
the former two Germanys. With original period footage and
extraordinary access, One Germany provides a sometimes serious,
sometimes hilarious look at the two Germanys. $16.00
Many other products available online! Order at www.aatg.org
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#HALLODEUTSCHLAND
Experience Germany with the AATG German Summer Study Program
FRIENDSHIP
“While learning about the history of the
region and engaging in hands-on
activities, a friendship between the
German teenagers and I developed
almost naturally. After realizing how we
shared the same sympathies over
delicious desserts, attractive movie
IMMERSION
“It was such an immersive experience
that I was able to use more German
than I had ever used before in my
entire life! This program was the
“I never thought that three weeks
would change my life, but after
reflecting on my time spent in
highlight of my summer.”
Braunschweig, I can honestly say that in
Noah Adams
Program in Beilngries
ever imagined. Not only did my
stars, and good music, our worlds
those three weeks, I grew more than I
language skills improve, but my
confidence in myself increased as well.”
seemed less and less different.”
Ramsha Shams
Program in Brandenburg
ADVENTURE
Erin McMahon
Program in Braunschweig
Find out more!
www.aatg.org
15
Advocating for German learning is one of the most important things you do.
AATG can help
The Advocacy Hub at AATG Online provides you with links
to up-to-date information, tips, strategies, and resources to
promote the study of the German-speaking world in all its
linguistic, cultural, and ethnic diversity.
Check out these examples of Advocacy Hub resources!
Icon Key! Each resource is labeled so you can see the format and areas of focus at a glance.
16
NEW! Professional Development Consultant Directory
Need a presenter for your next chapter meeting? Look no further than the
AATG Professional Development Consultants. The directory of over 75
German educators is ready to present workshops and sessions at AATG
chapter meetings, Goethe-Institut events, as well as state, regional, and
national conferences. With an emphasis on teacher training, Professional
Development Consultants have workshops and presentations to cover a
wide variety of topics ranging from classroom tips and tricks to writing
curriculum and assessment standards.
Check out the directory. Our brand-new Professional Development
Consultant directory makes contacting one of our fantastic consultants
easier than ever. You can search presenters and presentations by location
and by keyword. Select consultants based on their presentation topics by
sorting results by one of the following keywords in the dropdown menu.
Search for consultants. The keyword search enables you to find
presentations that fit the needs and interests of you and your colleagues.
Search results feature a complete list of consultants and presentations.
Searching for consultants by state is another great way to find presenters
near you. Simply select your state from the dropdown menu, and you can
view a list of consultants in your area.
Want to see what else consultants can offer? Click the consultant’s
name to see their complete professional bio and a full list of their
presentations.
Interested in becoming an AATG Professional Development Consultant?
Submit your presentations and a brief bio in the Professional
Development Consultant Form.
Simplify your search for presentation
topics by keyword.
Each Professional
Development
Consultant has a
complete, searchable
profile to make finding
the right person for
your event easier than
ever before.
OFFERING GREAT PROFESSIONAL
RESOURCES AT AATG ONLINE
17
AATG Annual Meeting
ACTFL Annual Convention and World Languages Expo
Join us for a wonderful opportunity to learn about the newest
developments in foreign language education! You’ll find 70 AATG
sessions on a wide variety of topics among the over 600 sessions at the
convention. The World Languages Expo hosts more than 250 vendors
displaying the latest materials and instructional technology. Meet new
colleagues and old friends. Browse program details at www.actfl.org.
San Antonio promises to be a spectacular conference!
Friday, November 21, 8:30–10:00 am
Friday, November 21
Grand Ballroom C
Communication, Culture and Cuisine: Identity and Food in a
Global Society
Opening General Session
Coordinating Diverse Teaching Staffs in Collegiate Language
Programs
Announcement of the ACTFL National Language Teacher of
the Year!
Grow your German Program with STEM
Annie Griffiths, international photographer and
philanthropist, will deliver the keynote address focusing on
designing a life and career as a globally competent
individual.
Friday, November 21
1:15 – 2:15 pm
Intercultural Dimensions of Language Learning
The National German Exam: Results and Updates
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Friday, November 21
Do You See What I See? Integrating Visual Literacy into
German Classrooms
2:30 – 3:30 pm
Advocate Your German Program: Goethe-Institut Initiatives
Learning Scenarios 101 — Content Standards at Work
Foreign Language Curricular Frameworks and German
Program Articulation
Measuring Learning Outcomes in Collegiate German
Programs
High Impact Strategies with Global Awareness and Diversity
Learning
STEM Goes Germany: Language, Study & Intern
Literacy and Literature in the Language Classroom
Was gibt es da zu LACHen? Materialien für Liechtenstein,
Österreich, Schweiz
Oh, the Places They'll Go in a Student-Centered Classroom
Friday, November 21, 12:00–1:00 pm
Friday, November 21
Lone Star Ballroom, Salon C
3:45 – 4:45 pm
Changes in the Landscape: Study Abroad Programs in the
21st Century
AATG Business Meeting
DaF für MINT-Fächer: Grundlagen und curriculare Ansätze
Learn about AATG’s NEW services for members!
Eco-Pedagogy and Feminist Praxis in German
Partnering with Administration to Grow German Programs:
Advocacy Strategies
Reaching Global Competence through (German) History and
Culture
18
Join us in San Antonio November 21 – 23
An Enriching Professional Development Experience
Friday, November 21
5:00 – 6:00 pm
Saturday, November 22
DaF von klein auf
11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Abenteuer Lesen: Literatur für Kinder und Jugendliche von
Anfang an
Der papierlose Unterricht: Das surfende Klassenzimmer!
Aesthetics in the Language Classroom
German Films Reexamined: Contexts in Contact
Building on Our Successes: Plans for the Future
Hands-On Learning and Literacy in the Genre-Based
Classroom
Motivating German Students with Music-Based Activities
Intercultural Competence in the Classroom: The Three-Step
Method
When the Textbook Lets You Down... Creating Great Units
and Assessments
Saturday, November 22
Saturday, November 22
8:00 – 9:00 am
2:00 – 3:00 pm
AATG Centers of Excellence: Best Practices
Assessment for Learning in the German Language Classroom
Deutschvergnügen mit Musik: Motivate Students with a
Music-Based Curriculum
Deutsche Sprach- und Samstagsschulen—Eine Erfolgsstory!
German for the Job Market
How Authentic is Effective? Authentic Materials in the
German Classroom
Germany, Europe, and the Transatlantic Relationship
“Gespräch über Bäume”: Das Thema Natur und
Umwelt K - 16
Multikulti and Beyond: New Voices in German Poetry and
Prose
Werbung für Deutsch: Advocating for Your German Program
Saturday, November 22
10:00 – 11:00 am
Saturday, November 22
Beyond Stereotypes: Teaching Liechtenstein, Austria,
Switzerland (L-A-CH)
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Best Practices: Using Kinder- und Jugendliteratur in All Levels
Dialektische Vergnügungen: Brecht’s Oeuvre and Method in
German Courses
German for the Professions: The Cultural Environment of
German Business
STEM+German: The Oregon AATG-Funded Grant Project
German Language Study in the United States
Teaching German Film and Television
Leben ist Spiel: Lieder, Spiele, Gedichte und Theater in der
Grundschule
Understanding and Teaching Humor in the German Language
Classroom
Tableau Vivants, Cabaret, Animating Art Work: Teaching with
an Artsy Edge
Reaching Global Competence
19
AATG Annual Meeting
Professional Development Tailored to You
Saturday, November 22
5:15 – 6:15 pm
Sunday, November 23
8:00 – 9:00 am
ACT! Innovative Strategies to Develop and Sustain Your
German Program
Assessment of E-Learning Strategies for German Vocabulary
Acquisition
Advance Your Teaching Skills: Goethe-Institut Programs
Beyond the German Classroom: Experiential Learning
Opportunities
Cultural Connections: Acquiring Language Through Art and
Music
German Competitions: Programs for Student Success
Fußball: New Goals in the German Curriculum
Teaching AP/IB/Advanced German through Films
History in the German Language Classroom — The Elephant
in the Room
Using Digital Storytelling to Connect Classrooms and
Communities
Saturday, November 22
7:30 pm
Texas Ballroom Salon A, Grand Hyatt Hotel
Sunday, November 23
10:00 – 11:00 am
Addressing the Needs of STEM Students in Content-Based
Instruction
AATG Awards Presentation
Changes in the Landscape: Rethinking the German Study
Abroad Experience
Join colleagues in recognizing
2014 Award Winners!
Global Learning in and out of the Classroom
Multimedia Content and Virtual Exchanges
 Die Unterrichtspraxis/
Teaching German Best
Article Award
The Brothers Grimm in the German Classroom
 Max Kade Prize for the
Sunday, November 23
Best Article in The German Quarterly
11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Establishing a Writing Workshop to Enhance Students’
Written Expression
 German Embassy Teacher of Excellence Award
 German Center of Excellence
Informational Session of Delta Phi Alpha, National German
Honor Society
 Goethe-Institut / AATG Certificate of Merit
 Friend of German Award
My Students Can’t Speak: Vocab Enhancement through
Collaborative Activities
 Outstanding German Educator Award
Schreiben lehren- More than just Essays and Emails
Followed by a concert and reception sponsored
by the Goethe-Institut!
Websites and Contests: Projects and Resources by the
Goethe-Institut
Join us for the debut of
b-ebene’s new album
Noteingang! b-ebene,
from Frankfurt am Main,
is known for their unique
blend of bossa nova,
elektro, and pop.
20
AATG Professional Partner
Visit the A&O Booth at ACTFL and WIN!
As a valued member of AATG and reader of the AATG Newsletter, A&O Hotels and
Hostels invites you to visit our booth, located near the AATG booth at ACTFL 2014 in San
Antonio!
Show us your AATG pin, shirt, or other item purchased from their booth, or download
your membership card on the AATG Website and present it to receive a special prize
from A&O Hotels and Hostels! Supplies are limited. First come, first served!
A&O Hotels and Hostels caters to teachers, whether traveling with student groups or
while on private travels with friends or family. As a member of AATG, A&O Hotels and
Hostels offers special perks, available free of charge! Your membership with AATG
entitles you to:

Free Late Check-Out (a €6,50 value—arrange upon check-in)

Free use of the Teachers’ Lounge, even when traveling without a group of students
(free use of computer, internet, fax, printing, local phone calls, and non-alcoholic
drinks)

Free use of pre-paid cell phone (German number; Germany rates apply; preloaded with all A&O Hotel Managers’ direct telephone numbers)

Free non-alcoholic drinks (“open bottle” soft drinks) throughout your stay

Free In-Room Wi-Fi

One free VIP Voucher upon check-in for one drink in our Sky or Lobby bar

24-hour Emergency concierge service, should you encounter any unfortunate
events during your travels (contact any A&O Manager or A&O’s U.S.
Representative for details; emails below).
Upon check-in, identify yourself as an AATG Member by showing your AATG
Membership card. To print your membership card, first sign in at www.aatg.org, then
click on the Manage Profile link within the My Profile section. Under the heading
Information & Settings, you’ll find your Membership Card. Just click and print!
If you have not yet renewed your membership, please do so now! Only AATG members
are eligible!
Booking: [email protected]
Web: www.aohostels.com
US Representative: [email protected]
21
The German Rock Band Artig recently held a three-week concert tour in the US. Artig reached over 6000
German language learners through their tour, starting at the German Language School Washington with Friday
night and Saturday morning concerts during the school’s Oktoberfest followed by a lecture series from the band
for high school students at the German School.
The tour was initiated and organized by Kerstin Hopkins, principal of the German Language School Washington
and her colleagues from several schools. Several schools and colleges offered and financed concerts with
wonderful additional programs for the band, students and friends. Generous sponsors included Volkswagen
Group of America, the Friends of the German School Washington, Storyhouse Production, Itemis,
DAVEntertainment, Susanne Weers, and Lauschangriff.
From the first concerts in Washington, the tour
headed to Michigan and met a team from
Storyhouse Production. Storyhouse covered
the tour to air on RTL’s “das große W” – Yolo
Magazin in early 2015. In Michigan Sabine
Greiss, principal of the German Language
School in Bloomfield, and her team hosted the
band. Artig visited German classes, talked to
teachers, students and parents, and gave some
wonderful performances. A tour to Motown
Studios with parents of German language
learners and some insights into the city of
Detroit made for good memories.
From Michigan the tour headed to Warminster, PA, a small town that
proved to have many German language fans. Andrew Graff, German
teacher at William Tennent High School, organized the concert for schools
in the area. Busses arrived and students with Artig signs and German flags
on their faces flooded the concert hall once the doors opened. For many,
the Artig concert was the highlight of the school year. One teacher
commented, “Mit diesem Konzert konnten alle Schüler motiviert werden,
Deutsch zu lernen. Das hätten wir im Klassenzimmer nicht geschafft.
Einfach toll, das eine große Band wie Artig auch in unbekannte Vororte
kommt. Danke an alle, die das ermöglicht haben.”
22
Artig spent a few hours in Philadelphia enjoying Philly Cheesesteaks before heading to Hood College in Frederick,
MD. German Professor, Scott Pincikowski, arranged for a beautiful auditorium, and a great team of students and
faculty. Students jumped out of their seats when Artig hit the stage.
Next stop, Northern Virginia, where AATG Vice-President
Hal Boland played host dad to the band at his home in
Leesburg. Laura Williams, German teacher at Stone Bridge
High School—greatly supported by German teachers in
Loudoun County Public Schools—hosted over 1,200
students at a concert in her school. The concert was epic—
screaming students, a great auditorium, excited German
language teachers—Artig rocked the school house for
nearly two hours. Afterwards students had the opportunity
to meet the band and get autographs.
The final concert of the 2014 tour was held in conjunction
with German-American Day hosted by AATG President
Mohamed Esa at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD.
Over 1000 students joined Artig to close out their American
tour. Kerstin Hopkins summed it up best, “We are
convinced that we’ve reached many young students and advertised greatly for the German language and
German-speaking countries. We’re looking forward to ARTIG 4.0 in the near future.”
Find out more about the group at www.artig-band.de. VW Group of America published a short video available at
media.vw.com/videos/category/2/ and the Artig song “Lauf mit mir” has been published by Cornelsen in
Musikbuch 2.
Photos: Susanne Weers
23
Opportunities Abroad
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program
The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program (CBYX) offers merit-based scholarships for motivated
high school students to spend an academic year in Germany. The program was established in 1983 to
celebrate German-American friendship based on common values of democracy. Students live with host
families, attend local schools, and participate in community life in Germany.
For more information and application deadlines, which vary by state, visit the organization in charge of recruitment for your state at
www.usagermanyscholarship.org.
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange
for Young Professionals
CBYX for Young Professionals is a yearlong fellowship, funded by the German
Bundestag and US Congress. The program annually gives 75 American young professionals the opportunity to study, work, and live with
a host in Germany. The program consists of three phases: two months of German language school; four months of classes in your career
field at a university, technical school, or professional school; and a five-month internship in your career field. Participants are placed
throughout Germany. The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals is primarily designed for participants in
business, engineering, technical, vocational, and agricultural fields, though applicants in all fields are encouraged to apply.
Candidates must have US citizenship or permanent residence; be between 18 and 24 years of age at the start of the program; possess a
high school diploma; exhibit clear career goals and some relevant experience in their career field (experience can be work, internship, or
volunteer); have a strong interest in German and international affairs, as well as a strong sense of American identity; be flexible,
independent, and diplomatic. For more information, visit www.cbyx.info. Application Deadline for the 2015–2016 program year:
December 1, 2014.
Grants for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
The University Summer Course Grant
The Intensive Language Course Grant
This grant provides funding to attend a broad range of 3 to 4week summer language courses at German universities which
focus mainly on German language and literary, cultural, political
and economic aspects of modern and contemporary Germany.
Extensive extracurricular programs complement and reinforce
the core material. Scholarships are awarded to students
pursuing full-time study at Canadian or US colleges or
universities. There are no restrictions as to field of study, but
applicants must have attained at least sophomore standing at
the time of application. Learn more at www.daad.org/
summercourse. The application deadline is December 15, 2014.
This grant funds applicants from North American universities,
who at the time of application have attained at least
sophomore standing, to attend 8-week intensive language
courses at leading institutes in Germany. Undergraduate and
graduate students are eligible to apply for grant. Scholarships
are awarded to students currently enrolled full-time in all fields
of study except German Studies, German Language and
Literature or German Translation and Interpretation. More
information is available at www.daad.org/languagecourses. The
application deadline is December 15, 2014.
24
Connecting and Learning
The Baden-Württemberg STIPENDIUM for
Vocationally Qualified People
Work Immersion Study Program (WISP)
The Baden-Württemberg STIPENDIUM for Vocationally Qualified People "Work
Immersion Study Program" (WISP) is a funded, three-month work-study immersion
program exclusively for college students in vocational fields to gain practical work
experience, improve their German language skills, and experience German culture
firsthand.
The program starts in June with a one-month intensive language course in Baden-Württemberg, followed by a two-month internship
in a business or technical field that concludes in August. Internships are also exclusively in Baden-Württemberg and are customized to
participants’ career fields.
Program benefits include: a monthly stipend; free accommodations; orientation and final program seminars in Stuttgart; roundtrip
international airfare, one-month language course; two-month internship in target career field; work authorization; health and
accident insurance; support throughout the program in Germany and the United States
Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:







U.S. citizen or permanent resident
18-27 years of age
one semester of German instruction by program start in June 2015
enrolled at a US college before and after the program
studying in a vocational field
completed at least four semesters of study by the program start in June
prior experience in target internship field through a summer or part-time job, volunteer position, or prior internship.
Learn more about the program and how to apply. The application deadline for the 2015 program is December 1, 2014.
Connecting Germany Alumni
The Alumniportal Deutschland is an online community for people who have
studied, conducted research, worked, or received training in Germany or at a
German institution abroad—the “Germany Alumni”. A joint initiative of the DAAD,
Goethe-Institut, Alexander von Humboldt Stiftung, and the Deutsche Gesellschaft
für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, Alumniportal Deutschland is hoping to
engage more of these Germany Alumni in the United States.
With the Alumniportal Deutschland, Germany Alumni have an active networking hub for sharing information and collaborating with
their fellow alumni, connecting to German organizations, improving their German language skills, and looking for jobs with a
Germany connection. With featured content from the founding organizations, it's geared toward your students and colleagues. It's
also an great tool for department administrators to help stay connected with their alumni long after they've left campus!
Logan Egbert, the Alumniportal Deutschland representative in the United States, will be conducting a set of webinars this fall to
introduce some of the unique features of the Alumniportal, give participants a tour of the platform, and answer questions regarding
how your students and colleagues might best use the service. If you're interested in learning more, please send him an email.
Start exploring — visit the Alumniportal Deutschland.
25
AATG’s Professional Partner Program
A new service from DJH City Hostels:
Our New Generation All-in-One Travel Agency Go2City
German teachers told us they need help with more than
accommodations – so we answered the call and founded
Go2City -- the agency partner for the Germany programs
you’ve been looking for!
Now you can have everything your trip needs from one
source – full service and one-stop shopping:

Customized itineraries and activity modules

Museum and theater visits

Sports and tournaments

Excursions beyond city limits

Specialized city tours and looks behind the
scenes

Transfers and coach trips

Local contacts for activity-centered trips
(sports, theater, music, education)

And much more
We offer:

Customized itineraries

Activity modules

Our reliable 3-star quality accommodations
at hostel prices!
26
AATG’s Professional Partner Program
The combination doesn’t exist anywhere else. We own
the accommodation and the in-house agency. No
middle men, no extra fees, no miscommunications or
wasted time. Just tell us what your group wants to do,
and we’ll put the whole package together! Select your
program from a catalog of activities online or let us
customize it.
For more information, please see our new online eBooks!
New in-house agency Go2City
http://www.djh-rheinland.de/docs/city-hostels/ebooks/
go2city_en/index.html
DJH City-Hostels in Cologne & Düsseldorf
http://www.djh-rheinland.de/docs/city-hostels/ebooks/
city_hostels/index.html
Browse our extensive catalog at www.djh-go2city.de.
DJH City Hostels and Go2City for easy and affordable custom itineraries to Germany’s
Rhineland. Our Go2City expert team will be happy to create the perfect program for your
student group!
Amazing prizes!
Sample Itineraries for Cologne:

3-day programs starting at 79 €

5-day programs starting at 161 €
Your Go2City North America Representative
Rainer Perry
Phone: 646 207 6406
E-Mail: [email protected]
27
Neues von der Zentralstelle für das Auslandsschulwesen (ZfA)
Deutsche Sprachdiplome
feierlich übergeben
Generalkonsul Herbert
Quelle, GK Chicago, und
BDU Anka Fehling bei der
Übergabe von DSD
I-Diplomen an der DSS Ann
Arbor
Foto: Anka Fehling
Den ersten feierlichen Höhepunkt des
neuen Schuljahres bildete an vielen
von der ZfA betreuten Schulen die
Übergabe der Deutschen
Sprachdiplome. Schülerinnen und
Schüler der Altersstufen 14 bis 16 und
16 bis 18 hatten sich den Prüfungen
zum DSD I und zum DSD II im Zeitraum
vom Dezember 2013 bis Mai 2014
unterzogen. Die Früchte dieser Arbeit
wurden jetzt geerntet.
Neu im ZfA-Team
in den USA
Friederike Braun
© eigenes Foto
Wohnort
Richmond, VA
DSD I-Absolventen der DSS Bloomfield, Michigan, Foto: Anka Fehling
Betreuter Bereich
Wie zum Beispiel hier in Bloomfield und Ann Arbor in Michigan
erhielten die Jugendlichen ihre DSD-Zertifikate aus den Händen
von Vertretern der deutschen Generalkonsulate oder der
Beraterinnen und Berater für Deutschunterricht der ZfA.
Herzlichen Glückwunsch noch einmal an alle Absolventinnen und
Absolventen!
—Anka Fehling, BDU Chicago
Lehrerfortbildung in
Cincinnati
Ein erster Workshop in
Zusammenarbeit des AATGChapters Ohio und der ZfABeraterin Anka Fehling wurde
im September in Cincinnati
durchgeführt. Fazit:
Neuauflagen sind in Planung!
Teilnehmerinnen des Workshops in einer
Arbeitsphase, Foto: Anka Fehling
 Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania,
Virginia, West Virginia
Berufliche Stationen
 Studium an der Ludwig-Maximilians-
Universität München (Germanistik,
Katholische Theologie)
 Lehrerin für Deutsch und Religion an
Gymnasien in Rosenheim und
München
 Ausbilderin von Deutsch-Lehrkräften
am Studienseminar TheresienGymnasium in München
Kontakt
[email protected]
28
Neues von der Zentralstelle für das Auslandsschulwesen (ZfA)
DSD I Schulung
an der Cherry Creek
High School
Die ERFINDENKER kommen
Der Oktober 2014 hat es in sich. Mit ihren
Workshops rund um die Verbindung aus deutscher
Sprache und Musik breiten Sandro Jahn und Fabio
Niehaus einen bunten Fächer an Ideen und
Umsetzungsbeispielen aus (siehe
www.erfindenker.com).
Mit Unterstützung des Netzwerks Deutsch bringen
die Berater für Deutschunterricht der ZfA die
Erfindenker an insgesamt sieben Standorte in
Kalifornien und Ohio. In der Zeit vom 11. bis zum
17. Oktober führen die beiden Hamburger Künstler
an High Schools, Middle Schools und
Samstagsschulen Workshops für Lernende und
Lehrkräfte durch. Wir sind gespannt!
—Anka Fehling, BDU Chicago
Regen Zuspruch fand am Labor
Day Wochenende die ganztägige
DSD I-Schulung an der Cherry
Creek High School in Greenwood
Village, CO, unter der Leitung der
Beraterin für den
Deutschunterricht Irene Mrázek.
Sandro Jahn und
Fabio Niehaus,
die beiden
ERFINDENKER
Foto: Niehaus/Jahn
Berater für Deutschunterricht
beim AATG Arizona
Das Herbsttreffen des Arizona Chapters der AATG fand auf Einladung von
Prof. Marilya Reese an der Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff statt.
Es begann am Freitagabend mit einem gemütlichen Empfang bei Prof.
Reese. Für den geschäftlichen Teil am Samstag, 05.Sept. 2014, hatte
Chapter-Präsident Prof. Albrecht Classen ein abwechslungsreiches
Programm zusammengestellt. Den Auftakt bildete Prof. Renate Schulz‘
Workshop „Die 5. Sprachfähigkeit: Die Rolle soziokulturellen Wissens und
Könnens im Fremdsprachenerwerb“. Im Anschluss erarbeitete Prof.
Classen zusammen mit den Teilnehmern, wie und warum Sprichwörter
gewinnbringend im Sprachunterricht eingesetzt werden können.
Nach der Mittagspause hatte Alexander Wildgans, von der Zentralstelle
für das Auslandsschulwesen entsandter Berater für Deutschunterricht,
Gelegenheit sich vorzustellen und seine Tätigkeitsbereiche zu erklären.
Bei den Lehrkräften von High Schools stieß in diesem Zusammenhang der
verstärkte Fokus der BDUs auf ihre Schulen auf großes Interesse.
—Alexander Wildgans, BDU San Francisco
29
Schon während eines
Grundlagenreferats zu den
Voraussetzungen, den
Aufgabenformaten und
Referenzniveaus dieser
Diplomprüfung stellten die
Teilnehmenden fundierte und
differenzierte Fragen, die deutlich
die Aufgeschlossenheit Colorados
gegenüber dem Portfolio der ZfA
belegten.
Die sich anschließenden
Workshop-Phasen nutzten die
Schulungsteilnehmer neben der
aktiven Erprobung der
Aufgabenbereiche Hör-,
Leseverstehen und Mündliche
Kommunikation in intensivem
Austausch dazu, individuell
Konsequenzen für ihren
Deutschunterricht in den Schulen
zu formulieren.
—Irene Mrázek, BDU Denver
Neues von der Zentralstelle für das Auslandsschulwesen (ZfA)
GASANC-Workshop
Ein Tag für Deutschlehrerkräfte zum Treffen, Lernen,
Austauschen, Diskutieren und Ausprobieren
Die Referentinnen und Referenten des GASANC-Workshops
Es ist immer wieder unglaublich, aber da hatten tatsächlich wieder mehr als
100 Deutsch-Enthusiasten den Campus der deutschen Auslandsschule in
Mountain View (GISSV) zum Zwecke einer Fortbildung gestürmt. Und das an
einem Samstag!
Das Fortbildungsangebot umfasste Workshops, Seminare, Informationen zur
Schuladministration sowie eine Materialtauschbörse und Stationen zum
Ausprobieren und Mitmachen. Die verschiedenen Anregungen bezogen sich
auf Unterricht vom Kindergartenalter bis hin zu Teenager- und
Erwachsenenklassen und wurden gern angenommen.
In gewohnt souverän-humoristischer Weise führte GASANC Director of
Education Sabine Eisenhauer durch den Tag. Grußworte überbrachten der
neue stellvertretende Generalkonsul Johannes Bloos, Berater für
Deutschunterricht Alexander Wildgans, die Leiterin des Goethe-Instituts
Sabine Erlenwein sowie die dortige Leiterin der Sprachabteilung Julia Koch,
die AATG Chapter-Präsidentin Zehra Otus, Rolf Linse als Vertreter der GISSV
und natürlich GASANC-Präsidentin Pamela Scholz.
Es referierten und moderierten Vertreter von Samstagsschulen der Region,
Universitäten, Goethe-Institut, ZfA sowie das Künstler-Ehepaar Peter
Eckmeyer und Gaby von Borstel, die den bekannten Roman Im Westen
nichts Neues als graphic novel aufbereitet haben.
So bot die Neuausgabe des Klassikers GASANC-Workshop – auch dank
großzügiger Unterstützung seitens der ZfA – in diesem Jahr wieder ein
abwechslungsreiches Angebot.
—Alexander Wildgans, BDU San Francisco
30
GASA-Seminar
für Lehrkräfte
Die GASA (German American
School Association of
Southern California)
organisierte ihr jährliches
Lehrerseminar im Phoenix
Club in Anaheim.
Die Lehrkräfte besuchten
Workshops, die Methoden
zur Förderung der
Kommunikation,
motivierende
Unterrichtsprojekte, Total
Physical Response und
abwechslungsreiche Spiele
für den Deutschunterricht
vorstellten und die
Lehrkräfte aktiv in die
Erprobung einbezogen.
Sowohl Referenten der ZfA
aus Los Angeles und Seattle,
Julia Ibold und Natascha
Milde, als auch vom
Grossmont College in El
Cajon, von den Albert
Einstein Academies in San
Diego und der Benjamin
Franklin Magnet School in
Glendale, ermutigten die
Teilnehmer, häufiger
schülerorientierte Verfahren
und projektorientiertes
Lernen in ihren
Deutschunterricht zu
integrieren.
—Julia Ibold, BDU Los Angeles
Neues von der Zentralstelle für das Auslandsschulwesen (ZfA)
Ein Traum wird wahr
2002 gründete eine Handvoll tatkräftige Mütter für ihre Kinder eine
deutsche Krabbelgruppe in San Diego, Südkalifornien. Ihr Traum war, ihre
Kinder dereinst in eine deutsche Schule schicken zu können.
GASA-Präsidentin mit
Bundesverdienstkreuz
geehrt
Vor einigen Jahren wurde dieser Traum mit Eröffnung der Albert Einstein
Academies Charter School wahr. Wie gut diese Schule in der Region
angenommen wird, zeigt die Eröffnung eines neuen Gebäudetrakts für die
Middle School, die am 27. August feierlich begangen wurde. Sowohl
Vertreter des deutschen Konsulats als auch des Bürgermeisters der Stadt
San Diego waren anwesend, und natürlich besuchten viele Eltern und
anderweitig am Umbau beteiligte Personen die Zeremonie.
Die Schule, die ebenfalls Mitglied in dem vom Auswärtigen Amt
unterstützten internationalen Netzwerk „Schulen: Partner der
Zukunft“ (PASCH) ist, gehört mittlerweile zu den größten deutschen
Immersionsschulen in den USA. 800 Schülerinnen und Schüler werden an
ihr unterrichtet. Im neuen Gebäude finden nun jeweils 600 Kinder in der
Grundschule und der Mittelschule Platz. Lange Wartelisten sollten damit
der Vergangenheit angehören.
Das nächste Ziel der Albert Einstein Academies Community liegt auf der
Hand: eine weiterführende High School.
—Julia Ibold, BDU Los Angeles
Dr. Bernd Fischer, Generalkonsul Los
Angeles, und Rita Reiff bei der
Übergabe, Foto: Julia Ibold
Rita Reiff, Präsidentin des
deutsch-amerikanischen
Schulvereins in Südkalifornien
(GASA) wurde für ihr
jahrzehntelanges Engagement für
die deutsche Sprache und Kultur
mit dem Bundesverdienstkreuz
am Bande ausgezeichnet.
Reiff arbeitete seit 1968 als
Lehrerin und Schulleiterin in
einem der
Samstagsschulstandorte der
GASA, die 1954 gegründet wurde.
Seit 2006 ist sie Präsidentin des
Vereins und hat durch ihre Arbeit
wesentlich dazu beigetragen,
dass die Zahl der GASA-Standorte
mittlerweile auf 14 gestiegen ist.
Schulleiter David Sciarretta während der feierlichen Eröffnung des neuen Gebäudes der
Albert Einstein Academies in San Diego, Foto: Julia Ibold
31
—Julia Ibold, BDU Los Angeles
Liebe Deutschlehrer/innen,
für diese Herbstausgabe des
AATG-Newsletters nun einige
aktuelle Informationen aus dem
Goethe-Institut New York: Auch
dieses Jahr werden wir wieder
auf der vom 21.-23. November
2014 in San Antonio, TX
stattfindenden ACTFL vertreten sein und freuen uns
über Ihren Besuch an unserem Stand mit der
Nummer 11040. Außerdem sind wir sehr glücklich
über die erfolgreiche Durchführung des PASCHJugendcamps Ende Juli in Portland, OR. Dort haben
Jugendliche aus Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala,
Mexiko, Kanada und den USA eine Woche lang in
den vier verschiedenen Workshops Theater, Radio,
Film und Musik auf spielerische Weise ihr Deutsch
verbessert. Sowohl die Teilnehmer als auch das
Team werden diese spannende und lehrreiche Zeit
sicher noch lange in guter Erinnerung behalten. Wir
hoffen, ein solches Camp auch im kommenden Jahr
wieder anbieten zu können.
Schüler Botschafter
In Kooperation mit dem German American Partnership Program
fördert die DaF Werbekampagne „Just Add German“ insgesamt
neun US-Schüler/innen mit einem Stipendium für eine
Schülerreise nach Deutschland. Im September sind die ersten
Schüler nach Deutschland gereist und haben in einem Blog mit
Texten, Fotos und Videos von ihren Eindrücken und Erlebnissen
berichtet. Später werden die Schüler als Botschafter für die
deutsche Sprache in ihrer Region agieren.
Nun wünschen wir Ihnen einen schönen
Herbstanfang und viel Spaß mit diesem Newsletter.
Mit besten Grüßen
Deutschland im Koffer
Dr. Christoph Veldhues
Leiter Spracharbeit Nordamerika
Goethe-Institut New York
Die DaF-Wanderausstellung „ Deutschland im Koffer“, die
spielerisch und mit Witz über Deutschland und die deutsche
Sprache informiert, wird bis ins Frühjahr 2015 durch die USA
und Kanada touren und in Schulen, Universitäten und
Kulturinstituten zu sehen sein. Mehr Informationen zu
Terminen und Standorten finden Sie auf der „Just Add
German“ Homepage.
Komposita-Wettbewerb für Schüler: Die lebendige Sprache
Die Bildung von neuen Substantiven durch das Zusammenfügen von verschiedenen
Wörtern (Komposita) geschieht in der deutschen Sprache relativ häufig. Nun laden
wir Schüler dazu ein, kreativ mit der deutschen Sprache zu spielen. Indem die
Schüler neue deutsche Wörter kreieren, können sie selbst erfahren, wie lebendig
die deutsche Sprache ist. Lehrer können sich auf unserer Webseite Informationen
zu diesem Wettbewerb für Ihre Klassen herunterladen. Für die besten
Einsendungen sind tolle Preise zu gewinnen, wie ein iPad, iPods und AmazonGutscheine. Einsendeschluss ist der 30. November 2014.
32
ACTFL
Das Goethe-Institut finden Sie auf der diesjährigen ACTFL am Stand 11040. Bitte kommen Sie vorbei, wenn Sie sich über
unsere aktuellen Projekte, Ressourcen und Stipendienmöglichkeiten informieren möchten. Außerdem sind wir auf
zahlreichen Panels vertreten, vor allem zum Thema „Werbung und Advocacy für Deutschprogramme“:
Advocate for Your German Program: Goethe-Institut Initiatives, Friday, 11/21, 2:30–3:30 PM
Partnering with Administration to Grow German Programs: Advocacy Strategies, Friday, 11/21, 3:45–4:45 PM
German Language Study in the United States, Saturday, 11/22, 10:00–11:00 AM
Advance Your Teaching Skills: Goethe-Institut Programs, Saturday, 11/22, 5:15–6:15 PM
Websites and Contests: Projects and Resources by the Goethe-Institut, Sunday, 11/23, 11:15–12:15 PM
Lehrer-Webinare
Wir setzen unser Webinarprogramm fort! Wie bewerbe ich mein
Deutschprogramm? Was muss ich tun, um Administratoren zu gewinnen? Wie
arbeite ich zusammen mit meinen Schülern, Ehemaligen und Eltern?
Unterrichtsexperten beantworten diese und weitere Fragen in unserer
Webinarserie für Deutschlehrer.
Working with Students, Parents and Alumni to Promote Your Program
Wednesday, October 29, 2014, 6–7 pm (ET)
Presenters: Megan Brenn-White, The Brenn-White Group and Olga Liamkina, Goethe-Institut New York
Your German classes have natural champions who may view helping you grow your German program as a privilege. Take
away practical tips about how to engage your network of advocates in both formal and informal ways, including how to
provide incentives and training.
Introducing Berater für den Deutschunterricht: Key Players in Your Support Network
Wednesday, December 10, 2014, 6–7 pm (ET)
Presenter: Petra Reuter, Central Agency for Schools Abroad
Beraterin für den Deutschunterricht (German Language Advisors) from the German Central Agency for Schools Abroad
(ZfA) and the Goethe-Institut are teachers' key partners in matters of German program advocacy, teacher professional
development, curriculum and instructional planning, and expanding teacher professional networks. The presenter, one of
the nine Berater für den Deutschunterricht in the US, will introduce the goals and tasks of the GLA network; outline
strategies for cooperation between Deutchberater, teachers and schools administration; and share success stories of
starting and growing German programs at schools. Followed by Q & A.
Wer eines der vergangenen Webinare verpasst hat, kann die Aufzeichnungen jederzeit über die Just Add German-Webseite
abrufen.
33
Just Announced! Professional Learning Unit
Credits for GAPP exchange programs in Georgia
The German American Partnership Program (GAPP) at the Goethe-Institut New York and the Georgia Department of
Education have partnered to develop a comprehensive learning plan for Georgia teachers working on a school sponsored
exchange program within the guidelines of the German American Partnership Program. Beginning in the spring of 2015,
Georgia teachers will be able to receive up to 8 hours of Professional Learning Unit (PLU) credits for their GAPP exchange
programs. Georgia is the first state where GAPP is able to offer PLU credits for the implementation and execution of the
exchange program with Germany.
By awarding PLU credits to Georgia teachers, GAPP and the Georgia Department of Education acknowledge the importance
of continuing professional development for German teachers in the target language and culture. PLU credits can also be
awarded to teachers who are not teaching German, but accompany their students to Germany on their GAP-Program.
Teachers have to adhere to all guidelines established by GAPP, including working with projects, and submit a PLU Prior
Approval Form as well as required evaluations after the exchange. GAPP’s Program Officer will review all completed
submissions after the exchange and issue a certificate of PLU credits earned to eligible GAPP coordinators. Contact GAPP
Program officer, Stefanie Proessl, if you have any questions and/or to obtain the PLU Prior Approval Form.
Learn more about GAPP and starting your own exchange with a German partner school.
Lerntipps und Materialien
Unsere Straße —
eine multimediales
Lernangebot für
Anfänger
Online LernerCommunity
„Deutsch für Dich“
Die Lernenden folgen in
diesem neuen Angebot der
Videoanimation einer typisch
deutschen Straße und können in interaktiven, Audio-Foto-Sequenzen
mit Alltagssituationen Deutsch üben. In der Wohngemeinschaft geht
es darum, wer zuerst ins Bad darf, bei der Familie gibt es
Diskussionen, wann die Hausaufgaben gemacht werden müssen und
das junge Paar nebenan streitet, wie die Geschirrspülmaschine richtig
eingeräumt wird. In allen Sequenzen kann das die Lernenden selbst
das Geschehen mitsteuern und mit selbstkorrigierenden OnlineAufgaben Deutsch lernen. Die Lernanwendung kann außerdem in den
Nachtmodus umgeschaltet werden, wo in den gleichen Häusern,
dann andere Szenen zu finden sind. So verbindet "Unsere Straße"
einen Blick in den Alltag in Deutschland mit einem Lernangebot für
das Niveau A1 (Anfänger). http://www.goethe.de/strasse
34
Seit einem Jahr wächst im
Netz die DeutschlernCommunity „Deutsch für
dich“; mittlerweile sind über 15.000 Mitglieder dieser OnlineCommunity registriert. Das Herzstück von „Deutsch für dich“
sind die kostenlosen, interaktiven Online-Übungen zu
unterschiedlichen Themengebieten. Das Übungsmaterial
bietet den Deutschlernenden die Möglichkeit, Inhalte und
Strukturen auf verschiedenen Niveaustufen zu vertiefen und
zu üben und sich mit anderen über die Themen
auszutauschen. Die Übungen können zu eigenen Lerninhalten
hinzugefügt werden. Das Übungsmaterial in „Deutsch für
dich“ wird stetig erweitert, so dass die Community-Mitglieder
immer wieder neue und eine große Auswahl an Aufgaben auf
allen Niveaustufen finden können. Zur Zeit wird das Angebot
in der Deutschlern-Community „Deutsch für dich“ auch für
Deutschlehrkräfte ausgebaut. http://www.goethe.de/dfd
AATG Executive Council
Mohamed Esa, President
McDaniel College, MD
Hal Boland, Vice-President
Heritage High School, VA
Mark Himmelein, Treasurer
University of Mount Union, OH
Eva Russo, Presiding Officer,
Assembly of Chapter Presidents
Washington University, MO
Keith Cothrun, Executive Director
Gisela Hoecherl-Alden, Northeast Region
Boston University
Deborah McGee Mifflin, Central Region
Johns Hopkins University
Doug Philipp, Northwest Region
Cheyenne Mountain High School, CO
Nella Spurlin, Southwest Region
Temple High School, TX
Wiebke Strehl, Southeast Region
University of North Carolina-Asheville
Bobbette Leu-Timmermann, Midwest Region
Assumption High School, WI
Robert Norton, Editor
The German Quarterly
Notre Dame University
Carlee Arnett, Editor
Die Unterrichtspraxis/Teaching German
University of California-Davis
The American Association of Teachers of German supports the teaching of the German language and German-speaking cultures
in elementary, secondary and post-secondary education in the United States. The AATG promotes the study of the Germanspeaking world in all its linguistic, cultural and ethnic diversity and endeavors to prepare students as transnational, transcultural
learners and active, multilingual participants in a globalized world.
With 4,000 members, the AATG serves teachers of German at all levels of instruction and all those interested in the teaching of
German. AATG is an allied organization of the Modern Language Association, a constituent member of the Joint National
Committee for Languages/National Council for Languages and International Studies, the National Federation of Modern Language
Teachers Associations, and an organizational member of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, the National
Network for Early Language Learning, and the Internationaler Deutschlehrerverband.
The AATG Newsletter is a publication of the American Association of Teachers of German, Inc. Correspondence and news items
should be sent to the editor at: AATG, 112 Haddontowne Court #104, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034.
Have some good news to
share with your colleagues?
Have a teaching tip that will
benefit others? Has a recent
advocacy effort proven
successful?
Contact us
Keith Cothrun
Executive Director
[email protected]
John Capasso
Membership Coordinator
[email protected]
April Hemphill
Program Coordinator
[email protected]
Pamela Edler
Program Associate
[email protected]
Deborah DiAngelo
Finance Manager
[email protected]
Mercedes Pokorny
Communications Coordinator
[email protected]
Barbara Hartman
Shipping Coordinator
[email protected]
35
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