Contact Information
- Division
- Liberal Arts
- Dean
- Patrick Marasso
- Associate Deans
- Soni Verma, Maria Villasenor
- Division Office
- W 107, Rocklin Campus
Overview
The United States is taking an active role in world affairs, and it is desirable for Americans to have knowledge of foreign languages and cultures. Learning a foreign language will benefit students and prepare them for any career. The acquisition of desired practical communication skills is the primary objective of the World Languages Department at Sierra College. Courses are organized around grammatical themes imbedded in cultural topics, requiring critical thinking, analysis and practical implication. Instruction on the Communicative Method integrates the five key learning objectives of Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing and Cultural Competence.
TRANSFER MAJOR REQUIREMENTS in Foreign Language are available in the Counseling Center. In all cases, students should consult with a counselor for specific transfer requirements. Four-year graduates in Foreign Language are qualified for positions in teaching, business, foreign services, law enforcement, nursing, secretarial and diplomatic services.
Career Opportunities in German
Bilingual: teacher, professor, transcriber, sales representative, customer service representative, web publisher, medical/health worker, realtor, IRS/franchise tax board worker, social services case worker, community outreach specialist, human resources specialist;
Business: international relations consultant, international business personnel, foreign exchange trader, publishing specialist, foreign correspondent, foreign publications/textbook editor, research assistant, importer/exporter, translator/interpreter, international account manager, international banking officer, airline personnel, public relations officer;
Culture/Tourism: cultural events coordinator, travel agent, translator/interpreter, guide;
Government: national security agent, immigration officer, court interpreter, UNESCO official, Peace Corps employee, translator/interpreter, FBI agent, foreign diplomat missionary, foreign service officer.
Courses
Understanding course descriptions
GER 0001. Elementary German - Level I
Units: 4
Hours: 72 lecture
Introduction to German language and culture, including speaking, listening, linguistic and grammatical structure, reading, pronunciation and intonation patterns. Corresponds to two years of high school study. (CSU, UC)
GER 0002. Elementary German - Level II
Units: 4
Prerequisite: Completion of GER 1 or two years of high school German with grade(s) of "C" or better
Hours: 72 lecture
Designed for those who have had previous training in the German language. Continuation of GER 1. Emphasis on speaking, listening, linguistic and grammatical structure, reading, writing. Further study of learning pronunciation and intonation patterns, together with continued discussion of unique cultural characteristics of the German-speaking peoples. Students continue to memorize dialogues, become knowledgeable of utilizing a substantial vocabulary, and conduct translations of culturally meaningful reading selections. (CSU, UC)
GER 0028. Independent Study
Units: 1-3
Designed for students interested in furthering their knowledge at an independent study level in an area where no specific curriculum offering is currently available. Independent study might include, but is not limited to, research papers, special subject area projects, and research projects. See Independent Study page in catalog. (CSU, UC-with unit limitation)
Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)
- Improve listening skills in target language and draw reasonable conclusions from observations.
- Improve reading skills in target language while examining important contributions to literature in relevant cultures.
- Improve writing skills in target language while examining new ideas from the relevant cultures.
- Improve speaking skills in target language and develop problem-solving skills by working productively with others.
- Cultivate openness to new ideas and an informed appreciation of relevant cultures.
