A Taste of Deutsch: An Introduction to the German Language

Kinder / Preschool / ELC Lesson Plan – Learning German Language, Reggio Emilia philosophy

Title: “A Taste of Deutsch: An Introduction to the German Language”

Age Group: Kindergarten / Preschool / Early Learning Centre (4-5 years old)

Learning Framework: Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) – Australia

Educational Approach: Reggio Emilia Method

Learning Outcomes (Based on EYLF):

1. Children have a strong sense of identity: Learning German can boost children’s confidence and give them a broader perspective of their place in the world.
2. Children are connected with and contribute to their world: Understanding a new language can increase children’s appreciation for other cultures.
3. Children have a strong sense of wellbeing: Learning to communicate in a new language can promote resilience and problem-solving skills.
4. Children are confident and involved learners: Learning German can stimulate curiosity and foster a love of learning.
5. Children are effective communicators: By learning German, children are gaining new tools for expressing ideas and emotions.

Resources Needed:

• German alphabet flashcards
• Pictures of common objects and their names in German
• Audio or video clips of basic German words and phrases
• Art supplies for creating vocabulary cards
• Simple German children’s book (optional)

Lesson Plan:

1. Introduction to German (20 minutes):

Begin the lesson by introducing the German language. Share some fun facts about the language and where it is spoken. Play audio or video clips of simple words and phrases in German, like greetings, colors, numbers, and common objects. Encourage the children to listen and repeat these words.

2. Interactive Learning (20 minutes):

Introduce the children to common objects and their names in German. Hold up a picture and say the word in German, encouraging the children to repeat it after you. Engage the children in interactive activities like matching words to pictures, and playing simple language games.

3. Art Activity: German Vocabulary Cards (20 minutes):

Provide the children with art supplies and guide them in creating their own German vocabulary cards. Children can draw pictures related to the words they’ve learned and write the corresponding German words on the cards.

4. Story Time and Reflection (20 minutes):

If available, read a simple children’s storybook in German, pointing out the words they’ve learned. Reflect on the lesson and discuss the importance of learning different languages and understanding various cultures.

Assessment:

Assess children’s engagement and participation in activities, their pronunciation of German words, their creativity in making vocabulary cards, and their understanding and appreciation of the importance of learning different languages.

Alignment with Reggio Emilia Method:

This lesson plan is consistent with the principles of the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasizes self-directed and experiential learning in a relationship-driven environment. The plan encourages exploration and communication, enhancing children’s understanding and appreciation of the German language and culture.

Link to EYLF:

This lesson addresses all five outcomes of the EYLF. Children develop a sense of identity (Outcome 1) by learning German and exploring another culture. They connect and contribute to their world (Outcome 2) by expanding their understanding of the world. They have a strong sense of wellbeing (Outcome 3) as they tackle the challenge of a new language. They become confident and involved learners (Outcome 4) as they engage with the new language and express their understanding through art. Lastly, they become effective communicators (Outcome 5) as they learn to express thoughts and feelings in a different language.