German Language
Description of the Examination
The German Language examination is designed to measure knowledge and ability equivalent to that of students who have completed two to four semesters of college German language study. It focuses on skills typically achieved from the end of the first year through the second year of college study; material taught during both years is incorporated into a single examination.
The examination is administered in three separately timed sections:
- Sections I and II: Listening
- Section III: Reading
The examination contains approximately 120 questions to be answered in 90 minutes. The three sections are weighted so that each question contributes equally to the total score. Any time candidates spend on tutorials or providing personal information is in addition to the actual testing time.
Most colleges that award credit for the German Language examination award either two or four semesters of credit, depending on the candidate's score on the exam.
Knowledge and Skills Required
Questions on the German Language examination require candidates to demonstrate the abilities listed in each section below. The percentages indicate the approximate percentage of exam questions focused on each ability.
40% |
Sections I and II: Listening |
|
| 15% | Understanding of spoken language through short stimuli or everyday situations | |
| 25% | Ability to understand the language as spoken by native speakers in longer dialogues and narratives | |
60% |
Section III: Reading |
|
| 18% | Vocabulary mastery: meaning of words and idiomatic expressions in the context of sentences and paragraphs | |
| 18% | Grammatical control: ability to identify usage that is structurally correct and appropriate | |
| 24% | Reading comprehension: ability to read and understand texts representative of various styles and levels of difficulty | |
Study Resources
Most textbooks used in college-level German language courses cover the topics in the outline given earlier, but the approaches to certain topics and the emphasis given to them may differ. To prepare for the German Language exam, it is advisable to study one or more college textbooks, which can be found in most college bookstores. When selecting a textbook, check the table of contents against the "Knowledge and Skills Required" for this test.
Besides studying basic vocabulary, you should understand and be able to apply the grammatical principles that make up the language. To improve your reading comprehension, read passages from textbooks, short magazine or newspaper articles, and other printed material of your choice. To improve your listening comprehension, seek opportunities to hear the language spoken by native speakers and to converse with native speakers. If you have opportunities to join organizations with German-speaking members, to attend German movies, or to listen to German-language radio broadcasts, take advantage of them. The Internet is another resource you could explore.
