This course will introduce students to the German language and culture through reading and writing with an emphasis on listening and speaking. The instruction in this course is based on a communicative method which has the primary goal of helping students to acquire the ability to German, both in and outside of the classroom environment, while the use of English will be kept at a minumum. It is important to remembe that when learning a new language, it is not imperative to understand every word. Students should concentrate on the gist of what is said.