German Language and Culture

Why should I take this Trinity Elective?

Less than a quarter of the world speaks English, meaning that learning another language opens the door to a world of opportunities and connections. Mastering German, one of the most widely spoken languages in Europe, not only broadens your personal and professional horizons but also enhances your critical thinking, memory, and cultural understanding.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or have prior knowledge, this Trinity Elective empowers you to develop essential linguistic skills while exploring contemporary German culture. By learning another language, you’ll gain transferable skills that enhance your studies, make you a more confident global citizen, and stand out to future employers.

Beginner Level: German Language and Culture

This module is ideal for complete beginners with no prior knowledge of German. It introduces the fundamentals of the language, covering basic speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. You will also delve into a cultural topic that highlights societal challenges within its linguistic context.

What will I learn?

• Communicate effectively at a beginner’s level (CEFR A1).
• Explore and appreciate German culture, connecting it to the language.
• Understand the foundations of German linguistic structures and vocabulary.
• Reflect on your progress and learning experience.

What will I do?

• Attend 9 x 2-hour interactive language classes.
• Complete 82 hours of self-directed activities, including online learning, quizzes, and cultural discussions.
• Create a reflective learning journal and deliver a Pecha Kucha-style oral presentation on a cultural topic.

How will this be assessed?

• 30% Five language quizzes to track your progress.
• 30% Participation in online discussion boards, contributing 5 original posts and 5 comments.
• 10% Reflective learning journal responding to prompts on your language-learning experience.
• 30% Pre-recorded Pecha Kucha presentation and written script analyzing a cultural issue.

Advanced Level: German Language and Culture

This module is designed for students with prior knowledge of German, such as those who have completed the Leaving Certificate or equivalent. It focuses on building fluency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing while exploring cultural topics tied to contemporary societal issues.

What will I learn?

• Communicate confidently at an advanced level (CEFR B2).
• Deepen your understanding of German culture and contemporary societal themes.
• Expand your linguistic skills across multiple areas of proficiency.
• Reflect critically on your progress to refine your language-learning strategies.

What will I do?

• Participate in 9 x 2-hour face-to-face classes.
• Engage in 82 hours of self-directed activities, including online exercises and cultural analysis.
• Develop a reflective learning journal and present a Pecha Kucha-style oral presentation on a cultural issue.

How will this be assessed?

• 30% Five language quizzes to evaluate proficiency.
• 30% Participation in online discussions on cultural and linguistic themes.
• 10% Reflective learning journal documenting your language-learning journey.
• 30% Pre-recorded Pecha Kucha presentation and written script exploring a cultural issue.

Who can take these Trinity Electives?

These electives are open to any eligible student, with the beginner module tailored for those with no prior German knowledge (A1 level) and the advanced module designed for students with prior proficiency (B2 level).

Students from Law and German, Business Studies and German, or German in the School of Languages, Literatures, and Cultural Studies are not eligible to enroll. Additionally, native speakers cannot take these modules.

Please Note:

• You can only select either the Semester 1 module or the Semester 2 module of each level, but not both.
• And you can only select either the Beginner or Advanced level, but not both.
• These electives are not traditional language modules; in addition to language learning, there is a significant focus on the culture and society of the country of the target language.
• Visiting students should confirm with their home university whether these modules fulfill language credit requirements before enrolling.
• Applications will be screened after enrollment to ensure students are placed in the correct module for their proficiency level. Students who enroll in a module that does not match their proficiency will be reassigned to another elective with available places.

* Please note that assessment methods, assessment weightings and amount of contact hours are subject to change by the module coordinator. You can confirm all assessment details and expected contact hours with the module coordinator upon starting the elective.