How we teach

Student Diversity

Our students vary widely in age and come with different language backgrounds, abilities, and motivations. Our curriculum is designed to accommodate these differences, and we take great care to assign students to the classes that will give them the best opportunity for learning. For a detailed description of our curriculum click on the links on the left.

The age span in children's classes seldom exceeds two or three years. Children progress at different rates. Sometimes, in the best interest of the student, they will advised to repeat a class level for maximum benefit.

Flexibility

Occasionally a teacher recognizes that a student could progress faster by changing class or track during the semester. Such changes can be made in consultation with the principal and the student's parents.

A change of class or track may also be requested by the student's parents. Again changes must be made in consultation with the pricipal, teachers and the student's parents in order to minimize negitive impact on the student's moral and academic achievement.

Adult students may change classes at any time, with the permission of the principal and the teachers.

Class Size

The average teacher-student ratio is 1:10. When a class is considerably larger, or when multi-level instruction is required, the teacher will be assisted by a teacher's aide.

Homework

Homework is obligatory. Weekly assignments, which may include listening to audio cassettes, take anywhere from a half-hour to three hours to complete, depending on grade level and other factors. Students are advised to spread this time over the week. More details can be found in the recently adopted Homework Guide.

Report Cards

For children we issue one report card at the end of the year. We also issue an interim report that parents should sign and return.

Adult students who need certification of attendance should discuss their needs with the teacher and the principal.

Letters of Recommendation

For Letters of Recommendation or other documents requested by a day school or college, please contact the principal.

Cultural Activities

To make German fun and to give its instruction authenticity, students participate in a number of cultural activities. These activities involve the parents of the community.

Each year, students, teachers, and parents participate in the annual Steuben Parade in New York City.
Students learn about German Advent customs, and present a Christmas Program in which all classes are involved. A traditional German Pot-Luck luncheon follows the program.
At the end of the school year, a traditional Graduation ceremony is held with robes, etc., and Induction to the German Honor Society, "Delta Epsilon Phi." All classes participate with performances of songs, poems, and skits. A traditional German Pot-Luck luncheon follows the program.
The German Language School of Morris County, Inc., also sponsors an annual Oktoberfest at the German-American Club "Germania Park" with German music, delicious German food, and a magic show for children of all ages!