Do I need to know German?

• Though advanced knowledge of German can certainly come in handy, a strong desire to be an active participant in all aspects of this program is equally desirable. Students, who have gone through first-year German (college level) by May 2012 or who have worked out an acceptable arrangement with Janet, may be eligible for the trip. I've taken many novice-level German students to Munich in the past and much depends on the student's level of comfort in a foreign setting or his/her willingness to take risks. Preference for participation will be given to students who have at least gone through the intensive German I class taught in the RC (German 191/RCLang 191). Students who have had no German should (ideally) enroll in that course (or its sequel) in Fall 2011 or Winter 2012. If they are not able to do so, but still have a strong interest in doing Deutsches Theater and going on the Munich trip, they are still encouraged to talk to Janet. All students, who wish to participate will talk with the project leader by early December, so everyone will have a chance to understand the nature of the project and expectations.
• Elementary speakers will be paired with a more advanced speaker in the project. All participants, regardless of their level of proficiency, will be expected to participate in project events, including events that are conducted completely in German. Grappling with and reflecting on the alienating nature of “foreign” language and culture are important aspects of the project and a part of our study!
• The course and trip will be conducted in English & in German. In Germany, students will be strongly encouraged to use as much German as possible, even when talking to other members of the group. Some instructors and workshop leaders will use only minimal English, but even so, students who have gone through the intensive German I course will know enough German to follow.