Course Topics
The topics of the lecture 'German Linguistics' include: - Language as a semiotic code (in comparison to other communication systems) - The most relevant levels of linguistic analysis; examples and methods for identifying forms, functions, and structures, consideing also language variation: - Phonetics and phonology - Morphology - Lexicon and lexical semantics - Syntax and information structure The topics of the lecture 'Language acquisition' include: - Basic concepts of language acquisition research - Methods in language acquisition research - Explanatory models for language acquisition - Milestones of language acquisition - Linguistic and extra-linguistic influencing factors of language acquisition - multilingual acquisition The topics of the laboratory 'Language awareness' deepen and complement the content of the lecture ‘Linguistics of German,’ also taking into account the relationship between language standardization and variation. In the laboratory, students become familiar with important learning and teaching resources such as reference grammars and corpora of spoken and written German.

Teaching format
Lecture with multimedia support, discussion, exercises, in-depth study of the relevant literature, partner work (in the laboratory)

Educational objectives
Knowledge and Understanding Students are familiar with the fundamental structures of the German language (phonology, morphology, and syntax). They understand the variation within German across different linguistic levels (standard language, regional varieties, and dialects). They are familiar with the stages and different contexts of language acquisition. They know strategies for teaching and fostering language awareness. Applying Knowledge and Understanding Students are able to apply the knowledge they have acquired to the analysis of linguistic data, language acquisition contexts, and teaching materials for language awareness. They are able to draw on this knowledge to inform and improve their own teaching practice in kindergarten and primary school. Making Judgements Students are able to evaluate analyses of linguistic data and language acquisition contexts, as well as the quality of teaching materials designed to promote language awareness. Communication Students are able to present the knowledge they have acquired using appropriate disciplinary terminology and in a scientifically informed and reflective manner. Learning Skills Students are able to identify and use knowledge resources and tools in the fields of linguistics, language acquisition, and language awareness.

Assessment
Written examination (90-minute exam) covering the lecture components; observation report for the laboratory component. The written examination comprises two related sections: Section 1: Linguistics of German (45 minutes): The exam consists of a series of closed-format questions on the fundamental concepts of linguistics and the analysis of the structure of German (multiple-choice, gap-fill, and matching tasks). Section 2: Language Acquisition (45 minutes): The exam consists of one open-ended question on the topics covered in the Language Acquisition component of the module. The answer should be written as a structured continuous text.

Evaluation criteria
The overall grade for the module is based on the written examination and the observation report prepared for the laboratory component (see the laboratory description). The following assessment criteria apply throughout: ability to conduct linguistic analysis; accuracy of content; logical organization; clarity of argumentation; engagement with the relevant academic literature; ability to critically analyse and reflect (including self-reflection); linguistic accuracy; ability to transfer theoretical knowledge to teaching practice; appropriate use of academic terminology; and the ability to formulate independent, well-reasoned judgments. In accordance with the Faculty Examination Regulations, a passing overall grade for the module requires a passing grade in each individual course component that forms part of the module. If the overall module assessment is failed, the entire module examination must be retaken. Please note that, under the Examination Regulations, failing an examination after three attempts results in exclusion from the next three examination sessions (see also Article 6, paragraph 4, of the current Examination Regulations).