Hallo! I'm considering AP German for next year and wondering what I'm getting myself into. Can anyone shed light on what the coursework looks like? Any recommended prep materials or online resources that can help with managing the workload?
Absolutely, I'd be happy to provide some insights! Taking an AP language course, including AP German, is a fantastic opportunity to deepen your linguistic skills and broaden your intercultural understanding.
Typically, the coursework in AP German is designed to mirror an intermediate-level college German class. As such, it is relatively comprehensive and might require a significant amount of time for studying. You will cover thematic units, each focused on a specific domain of public and private life, ranging from beauty and aesthetics to science and technology. And, of course, there will be a strong focus on mastering the intricacies of the German language, including advanced vocabulary, complex grammatical structures, and idiomatic expressions.
In terms of the four key language skills, expect a balance of reading, writing, speaking, and listening exercises. The course includes both written texts (newspaper articles, literature extracts, etc.) and spoken texts (podcasts, interviews, etc.). For the writing part, there is usually a combination of guided tasks (like letters and blog posts) and free-response tasks (such as argumentative essays). Speaking exercises could range from simulated conversations to delivering presentations.
At the end of the year, the AP German exam tests students on these same skills. The exam involves a multiple-choice section (both text and audio-based), as well as a free-response section (written and spoken responses). The latter is designed to mimic real-world communication situations - informal and formal, personal, and public.
When it comes to preparation, the AP Central website offers an extensive variety of free resources, including a course and exam description, past exam questions, and scoring information. You can also find plenty of online sites offering vocabulary flashcards, grammatical exercises, and listening comprehension drills. Quizlets or phone apps like Duolingo or Babbel could also be helpful for vocabulary and everyday phrases.
One recommendation is to listen regularly to German music, podcasts, and news, or watch German films or TV series. This will not only consolidate your vocabulary and comprehension skills but also immerse you more deeply in the German-speaking cultural landscape.
Bear in mind that the key to success in any language course is regular practice. Even dedicating as little as 15-20 minutes per day to review vocabulary or grammar can make a huge difference in the long run! Good luck with your AP German journey.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.