2007 why study german at rhs?. 2007 german language circa 100 million people in 40 countries...
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2007
Why study German at RHS?
2007
German language
• Circa 100 million people in 40 countries worldwide speak German as their native tongue.
• Most commonly spoken native language in the EU and 2nd language in much of East Europe!
• 2nd most popular business language worldwide. (DAAD)
• On the Internet, German is nearly tied with Japanese for 2nd most common language! (UNESCO)
2007
Science and Business
• German is an important language in business, science and technology.
• #2 in scientific research.
• 68% of Japanese students learn German!
• Germany is the world leader in bio-technology and renewable resource technology. (DAAD, GOETHE Institute) – 2 main technology focuses in Minnesota!
2007
Career Applications
• Germany is the 3rd largest economy in the world after the U.S. and Japan. (World Bank)
• Germany 2nd only to U.K. in foreign-based employment in the U.S. and MN. – 3,000 German companies in the U.S. (DIHK) – Over 100 companies in MN are based in or have direct affiliates
in Germany. (MTO)
• One of the U.S.’s and MN’s top export destinations. • EU and NON-EU Europe make up Minnesota’s largest
export region for manufactured goods (MTO, 2006) – German most commonly spoken language there.
2007
Real World Connections
• Best practice: real-world connections important! • Extensive contacts in Germany• Translates into:
– ePals – trips to Germany, – visiting teens from Germany, – constant contact w/ latest in music, literature, culture
• Many RHS students go on to live or study in a German-speaking country.
2007
Connections/Heritage
• 1.6 Million in USA speak German at home • Nearly 25% of U.S. residents are of German
heritage! (2000 Census.)
• Many students: relatives and/or friends in German-speaking countries.
2007
More Success
• Students more successful if learning language of their interest
• “Cultural distance” affects success.
• Real-world connections and cultural backgrounds similar to those of the target language/culture insure greater ease and success. (Zhang, 2006)
2007
Resources
• Many resources in the Twin Cities / MN!• The Germanic American Institute
– celebrates German holidays and festivals (German Club)
• Wescott library – German books
• German restaurants, food at grocery stores!• German television stations
(DW-TV on satellite). • German-based companies
– learn about career opportunities
2007
Ästhetics!
• Rich culture and history
• It is famous for its philosophers, musicians, writers and artists.
• Imagine enjoying all that in the original German language!
2007
AND...
Because the students LOVE it!
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