Description
Course Title: German I
Teacher: Dana Hanley
Semester/Year: Year-long (Fall 2026– Spring 2027)
Grade Level: 9–12
Day and Time: Saturday 1pm CST
Class Description
German I is designed for first-year students with little or no prior knowledge of German. It is ideal for high school students who want to satisfy foreign language requirements or begin their journey toward language proficiency. Younger students are welcome but should expect high school-level work.
This course introduces students to the German language and culture through engaging and communicative activities. Students will learn basic vocabulary to express common needs and interests while developing a foundational understanding of grammar, including sentence structure, present tense, and the case system. Grammar is taught through brief, targeted lessons with ample examples and interactive activities.
Students are encouraged to answer in German to maximize speaking practice and will use songs, shows, and skits to improve listening comprehension. They will also gain insights into German history, geography, culture, and how the Bible unified Germany with a common language.
What to Expect:
- Games, challenges, mini-projects, and worksheets to reinforce language topics.
- Quizzes and tests to track progress toward language proficiency.
- Exposure to German history, geography, and cultural variations.
- An introduction to how Germanic roots influence English grammar and language evolution.
Why Learn German?
- German is the international language of finance and the most widely spoken language in the European Union.
- It is the second most commonly used language in science.
- Germany offers scholarships, research fellowships, and exchange programs for those proficient in German.
- German can open opportunities in health care, science, and research fields.
Sample Projects Include:
- Meine Familie
- Menu Project
- Travel Brochure
- Musik im März (an annual competition to choose the best German songs, held across all high school German classes).
Required Resources/Prerequisites
Required Materials for German I (used for two years):
- Bobo Siebenschläfer
- Wildes Deutschland
SAMR Model Application
German I integrates technology to enhance learning through the SAMR model:
- Substitution: Students use online tools and the virtual campus to receive and complete assignments, helping develop digital skills and preparing for future academic and professional opportunities.
- Augmentation: Online video and audio resources provide listening practice in spoken German, reinforcing concepts taught in class.
- Modification: Students use digital tools to create multimedia presentations combining images and text. They also collaborate and compete through online tools.
- Redefinition: Students take virtual tours of German sites, exploring towns, train stations, and roads while learning vocabulary and grammar. High school students across all levels are invited to join a virtual exchange where they collaborate on projects with German students studying English.
Want to See How This Fits Into a Bigger Plan?
This class can stand alone — or be part of a larger pathway at True North Academy.
From Core 4 foundations to College-Prep and Entrepreneurship pathways, we help families build a clear, customized plan for middle and high school.
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Lisa Nehring –
Frau Hanley is an excellent and innovative teacher! She makes learning German very doable and online learning fun! My dd has LOVED learning German this year!
HannahN. –
Frau Hanely is AMAZING! She is one of the most innovative and fun people alive! Her approach to German is accessible, enjoyable and efficient! I have learned so much for her and I deffinately recomend this German 1 class to anyone wanted to master the mother tongue.
Rosie L. –
Mrs. Hanley is a great teacher and I really enjoyed taking this class! Learning about my peoples’ culture and language was so interesting. Mrs. Hanley makes learning this language a lot of fun.
Denise T (verified owner) –
I echo all the positive reviews here. Mrs. Hanley has been a tremendous gift to our family this year. Amidst all the typical teen struggles, EVERY week my son comes off of class in a cheerful mood. He might be down in the dumps before class, but after an hour with Mrs. Hanley he’s feeling capable and motivated to keep at it. I am in awe of special teachers like Mrs. Hanley who have a gift and passion for working with teens. She is professional, creative, thorough, humorous, faithful, and most dear to this mama— she cares about each kid.
Melissa L –
Frau Hanley transformed my son’s school year! What started as a casual interest blossomed into a full cultural immersion. He is looking forward to German 2 and beyond!