2007 Why study German at RHS?

2007 German language Circa 100 million people in 40 countries worldwide speak German as their native tongue. Most commonly spoken native language in the EU and 2 nd language in much of East Europe! 2nd most popular business language worldwide. (DAAD) On the Internet, German is nearly tied with Japanese for 2nd most common language! (UNESCO)

2007 Science and Business German is an important language in business, science and technology. #2 in scientific research. 68% of Japanese students learn German! Germany is the world leader in bio- technology and renewable resource technology. (DAAD, GOETHE Institute) –2 main technology focuses in Minnesota!

2007 Career Applications Germany is the 3rd largest economy in the world after the U.S. and Japan. (World Bank) Germany 2 nd only to U.K. in foreign-based employment in the U.S. and MN. –3,000 German companies in the U.S. (DIHK) –Over 100 companies in MN are based in or have direct affiliates in Germany. (MTO) One of the U.S.’s and MN’s top export destinations. EU and NON-EU Europe make up Minnesota’s largest export region for manufactured goods (MTO, 2006) –German most commonly spoken language there.

2007 Real World Connections Best practice: real-world connections important! Extensive contacts in Germany Translates into: –ePals –trips to Germany, –visiting teens from Germany, –constant contact w/ latest in music, literature, culture Many RHS students go on to live or study in a German-speaking country.

2007 Connections/Heritage 1.6 Million in USA speak German at home Nearly 25% of U.S. residents are of German heritage! (2000 Census.) Many students: relatives and/or friends in German-speaking countries.

2007 More Success Students more successful if learning language of their interest “Cultural distance” affects success. Real-world connections and cultural backgrounds similar to those of the target language/culture insure greater ease and success. (Zhang, 2006)

2007 Resources Many resources in the Twin Cities / MN! The Germanic American Institute –celebrates German holidays and festivals (German Club) Wescott library –German books German restaurants, food at grocery stores! German television stations (DW-TV on satellite). German-based companies –learn about career opportunities

2007 Ästhetics! Rich culture and history It is famous for its philosophers, musicians, writers and artists. Imagine enjoying all that in the original German language!

2007 AND... Because the students LOVE it!