German Program at RRC

The German program at Red Rock Central High School is a strong one. At the present time, and for the past five years, German I, II, and III level classes have been offered. Like other foreign language programs, emphasis is on communication in both oral and written forms. Most students choose to take two years of the language, in part because colleges now require two years of one language as a general ed. class.

The most appealing part of the German program at Red Rock for many students is the opportunity for students to travel to Germany (and other parts of Europe) after the second year of study. For the past six years, six to nine students have gone on this trip each year. Some have traveled with the ISE of Hopkins, MN., while others have ventured out with EF Tours. One of the trips involves three full weeks in Europe, with eight days spent with host German families. As frightening as that can be to high school students, all who have gone have foung this experience to be both rewarding and enlightening. Our collection of pictures, post-cards, and various other souvenirs from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria is steadily growing!

Another special part of German I and II is our connection with pen pals. All first-year students are required to apply for one pen friend ("Brieffreund") from a German-speaking country--either Germany, Switzerland, or Austria. They are also able to specify the age and sex of the pen pals they would like, and list their own hobbies. As part of the requirement , each student must also write a first letter in class, using some basic German. Though only one pen pal is required, many students choose additional ones from various countries as well. The fun begins when the letters start to arrive. We usually allow some class time to share them as they are recieved, and have found them to be very interesting. We share many smiles because of these letters, and have learned much more about customs and ideas in other parts of the world.

This year we hope to make a more direct connection with Europe and especially Germany through the Internet. It would surely be exciting to find a person or group that we could communicate with in only minutes-- and through a computer connection! ANY TAKERS?!