GASA’s focus is on a unique multi-cultural learning environment from pre-Kindergarten to high school. Knowing two languages is positively associated with intellectual and academic achievement. In the historical development of languages (the language tree), German and English have common roots. In effect, good German language skills will help students with their English language arts.
Our teaching methods are designed to instill a joy of learning and nurture curiosity. Our curriculum stresses language skills, culture, art and music on all levels. Classes are available at four or more levels of instruction and at each level students will acquire new language skills and learn about the cultures of the German speaking countries.
While our youngest students learn German primarily through songs, rhymes, games and crafts with an emphasis on listening and speaking skills, writing and reading is added at the beginning elementary school level. Grammar is introduced at the intermediate level and higher demands are placed on students’ listening and speaking skills. German literature becomes an integral part of the advanced level curriculum with oral and written proficiency.
Our program will also prepare students at the intermediate and advanced levels for the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG) tests for possible high school credit and/or placement, for AP (Advanced Placement) testing for college credit and “das Deutsche Sprachdiplom” (the German Language Diploma), offered by the Zentralstelle für das Auslandsschulwesen (Center for German Programs Abroad).
Overview of the levels of proficiency of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) toward the German Language Diploma:
Can understand and use very basic phrases, express needs of a concrete type and ask and answer questions about personal details.
Can communicate in simple and routine tasks and exchange information on familiar and routine matters.
B1 = DSD 1 (German Language Diploma 1), satisfies the language requirement for college admittance.
Can produce simple connected text on familiar topics and describe dreams and hopes; can give reasons and explanations for plans and opinions.
B2/C1 = DSD 2 (German Language Diploma 2), satisfies the language requirement for university admittance.
Can recognize implicit meaning and express him/herself fluently and spontaneously; can produce clear and well-structured text on complex subjects and shows controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.
To ensure the highest quality of instruction, our teachers are selected for their knowledge of German and their teaching ability. Most are natives of German speaking countries.