Language Center

This course is primarily aimed at doctoral candidates and regular students in master’s degree programs that are taught in English. However, it may also be attended by employees and exchange students (Erasmus+, direct exchange).

• Application to register for a course submitted in good time using the online form on our website
• Completion of Language Center placement test or grade from language course previously attended at Freie Universität

5 ECTS

• Regular and active participation
• Completion of coursework (homework, grammar tests, writing short texts)
• Successful completion of final exam (reading comprehension, listening comprehension, grammatical structures, oral exam)

General Focus:

• Introduction to, expansion upon, and reinforcement of basic grammatical structures
• Systematic work on building a basic vocabulary
• Practice listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills in everyday situations
• Exercises to practice oral and written expression
• Introduction to different forms of independent learning and working
• Discussion and reflection of cultural differences in everyday situations in Germany, Berlin, and at the university

Learning Objectives:

After completing this course, students are able to

• understand texts written in standard, everyday language that contain frequently used vocabulary and international words;
• locate specific, predictable information in simple, everyday texts, as well as read short texts and reproduce key words, turns of phrase, and short phrases;
• recognize the main themes in texts that deal with familiar things when read aloud slowly and clearly in standard German and understand individual statements provided these contain international words and pauses to allow for comprehension;
• take part in short, routine conversations on topics within their own field of interest, exchange relevant information and provide simple responses to practical questions and questions regarding likes and dislikes;
• report on or describe a familiar topic within their own field of interest orally or in writing by listing individual points;
• determine the main points of a short, simple presentation on a familiar topic using structural elements;
• use key words and simple sentences to provide a basic summary of information with the aid of structural elements;
• write about certain aspects of their daily lives using basic connectors to link sentences.

Course Topics:

Free time; cultural activities; new media; travel and mobility; vocational training, studies, and career