German

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In an increasingly globalised world, learning German gives students access to the language and culture of three European countries: Germany, Austria and Switzerland. German has the largest number of native speakers in the European Union and is in the top ten most spoken languages in the world. As well as introducing pupils to the language of Einstein, Mozart, Beethoven, Freud and Marx; learning German offers numerous career opportunities, such as engineering, law, business and finance. Germany has the strongest and biggest economy in Europe and one of the biggest in the world.

In lessons, we aim to share our own passion for the German language and culture with our students and encourage them to use the language as much as possible in lessons. German is taught through a dynamic and engaging curriculum that aims to inspire a love of languages, while building strong communication skills. Lessons are carefully planned to meet the needs of all learners and make use of a wide range of activities and resources, including interactive tasks, digital platforms, role-play, songs, games and creative challenges. Students develop confidence in the four key skill areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing, while also gaining a solid understanding of grammar and vocabulary. In order to provide an authentic language learning experience, we have regularly offered our Year 9 and 10 students the opportunity to travel to a German speaking country and access the language and culture first hand. In the past, students have been to places such as Berlin, Munich, Salzburg, Basel and The Black Forest. This is a trip we hope to start up again in the future.

To enrich students’ cultural awareness, teachers regularly use authentic materials such as video clips, songs, film extracts, maps and real-life texts, helping students to explore German-speaking cultures from around the world and understand how language connects people globally.

Students receive weekly homework consisting of a range of activities to reinforce and extend classroom learning, such as vocabulary consolidation, grammar practice, reading and listening tasks, and short written or creative responses. These activities are designed to strengthen understanding, build confidence, and encourage the development of strong independent study habits.

Key stage 3 content and GCSE Pathway

In Year 7, students’ study two languages and have three lessons per fortnight for each language. Towards the end of the year, students choose which language they wish to continue with. From Year 8 onwards, students focus on their chosen language, and the GCSE German course begins in Year 9, providing a smooth and well-supported transition to examination study.

Across Key Stage 3, students build the foundations of German through a range of engaging topics, developing essential vocabulary, grammar knowledge and communication strategies that prepare them for success at GCSE and beyond.

German at Hendon School is not only about learning a language – it is about building confidence, curiosity and global awareness, while equipping students with skills that will benefit them for life.

Useful links

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zk7rgwx - for reviewing essential topic-specific vocabulary and grammar