A German course at the A2/B1/B2 level for university preparation should teach the linguistic and academic skills needed for a successful degree at a German university. Here are the contents of such a course:
Academic Communication
The main focus is on academic communication, which includes participating in seminars and lectures, discussing and debating scientific topics, giving presentations, and speaking with professors and fellow students. This involves learning specialized vocabulary and terminology depending on the field of study (humanities, natural sciences, engineering), as well as scientific terms, concepts, and methods for academic work.
Grammatically, we will use passive forms, Konjunktiv I and II for hypotheses, nominalizations, and complex sentence structures (relative clauses, infinitive clauses, participial constructions). We will also use cohesive devices and connectors to write coherent texts.
Academic Reading and Writing Skills
A prerequisite for your studies is the ability to read and interpret scientific texts, to critically evaluate research literature, and to extract and summarize important information from textbooks, articles, studies, and theses.
In terms of communication, you will practice writing essays, exams, and research reports. You’ll learn to prepare academic papers (bachelor’s or master’s theses), write summaries and minutes, and apply citation rules and a formal academic writing style.
University Life and Culture
For university organization, we will help you get oriented in the local higher education system. You will learn to use libraries and online resources, navigate study regulations and module handbooks, and develop time management and self-organization skills for your studies.
The course also provides a foundation for understanding German academic culture, including how to deal with cultural differences in everyday university life and integrate into the student community in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Listening and Exam Preparation
It is crucial to understand lectures and seminars, participate in discussions and debates, listen to scientific interviews, and use audio and video materials for your studies.
Targeted training for exam preparation includes practice for language exams (TestDaF, DSH), exercises on exam situations and formats, and strategies for oral and written exams. The lessons include practical exercises, simulations of academic scenarios (lectures, discussions), case studies, and practical tasks, along with feedback and reflections to improve your own learning methods.
This course prepares students to master the linguistic and academic demands of a degree in Germany and to operate successfully in a German-speaking academic environment.
