Intermediate Dutch Language and Culture

Course goals

After completing this course students are able to:

in oral communication

• understand uncomplicated speech in varied domains (TV, radio, lectures, telephone messages, etcetera) and to take notes;
•  initiate, sustain and close a general conversation with a number of topics appropriate to a range of circumstances and subjects.
• participate in conversations on topics beyond the most immediate daily needs.
• orally perform a simple but connected discourse, simple narration or descriptions.

In written communication

• consistently read and understand connected texts dealing with various topics;
• write letters and short papers on familiar topics.

The Exit level is Intermediate High (IH), as defined in the ACTFL Guidelines.

Relationship between assessment and learning goals:

In this course, the final course grade is based on six elements: participation in the course, two written exams, one oral exam, one group culture assignment and a portfolio.

1. Attendance/participation/language menu (10%)
2. Writing tests (together 35%): test the student’s competence in the use of the grammar, syntax and vocabulary discussed in the course book (course goals 5 and 6).
3. Oral test (20%): tests the student’s ability competence in the oral use of the grammar, syntax and vocabulary discussed in the course book (course goal 1, 2, 3 and 4).
4. Culture assignment I (10%): tests the student’s ability to research, read, understand and present (in English) academic study material both in English and Dutch (course goal 7).
5. Portfolio (20%): tests the student’s ability to read, understand and critically present their understanding of course material on Dutch culture, and to link this with own knowledge and experiences (course goal 7).

 

Content

Language
The language part of the course helps students to improve and develop skills and strategies necessary to successfully handle most uncomplicated oral and written tasks and social situations students may be confronted within daily life in the Netherlands.

Culture
The main purpose of the culture & society classes is to provide a basic understanding of present-day Dutch society & culture. Attention will be given to various issues pertaining to Dutch culture & society today. Through the reading of articles covering the culture of the Netherlands and the Dutch students learn to understand mainly the inside perspective, in other words the Dutch way of approaching and discussing cultural and society issues.