DSSLI Classes

DSSLI offers classes for toddlers, children, teens, and adults at different levels. Classes are designed to meet the needs of heritage speakers building their German ability as well as German learners (“DaF” or “German as a foreign language”). 

Children’s Classes

The DSSLI children’s language program focuses on natural acquisition of language in an interactive, fun environment. The classes adhere to a standard routine, which incorporates listening and speaking, singing and crafts, games and physical activity, and story-time. Students interact with and learn German culture as they build their language skills. Our language instruction is designed to be culturally authentic, with hands-on activities to engage the learner’s interest and attention. Activities are fun and creative and also involve use of the new language in higher-level thinking skills. Instructions and activities are conducted primarily in German, with emphasis on oral language development. By celebrating special events and holidays together, such as St. Martin, Nikolaus, Karneval, children become familiar with German culture.

Classes: DSSLI offers the following classes for children from Pre-K up through high school. The ages and grades are a general guideline and children will be placed in the most appropriate class to suit their skill ability and needs. Class offerings depend upon sufficient enrollment and teacher availability. Please contact us for questions about placement.

Munchkins
Mixed language skills, Ages: 3-4, Pre-K
Regardless of their language skills, all children experience the German language in a playful way. Organized by topics and with the help of visual stimuli, songs, and crafts children will become familiar with basic German words and phrases.

 Deutsch I
Mixed language skills, Ages: 5-7, K-1
Children will continue to learn and practice basic vocabulary pertaining to the topic of the day. In addition to the development of oral language skills, the German alphabet will be introduced.

Deutsch II
Mixed language skills, Ages: 7-8, Second Grade
Children will continue to learn and practice basic vocabulary pertaining to the topic of the day. In addition to the development of oral language skills, children will begin to develop their reading and writing skills in German. 

Deutsch III
Heritage and advanced DaF speakers, Ages: 8-10, Grades 3-5
Children will continue to build their vocabulary and oral language skills. Children will continue to develop their reading and writing skills in German. Deutsch III uses a textbook and workbook that can be purchased from the teachers. 

Deutsch IV
Heritage and advanced DaF speakers, Ages: 10 and up, Grades 5 and up
Our advanced German class builds on previous skills, introducing more advanced grammar and conversation skills. Students learn German within the context of age-appropriate topics and situations. 

Deutsch V
Heritage and advanced DaF speakers, Ages: 13 and up, Grades 8 and up
Our advanced German class builds on previous skills, introducing more advanced grammar and conversation skills. Students learn German within the context of age-appropriate topics and situations. 

Schedule: Children’s classes meet on Saturday afternoons from 4:30 to 6:00 pm during the academic school year. Special events and holidays typically take place during scheduled class time. See the school calendar for dates of these special events. Classes meet at Stony Brook University. 

Adult Classes

The DSSLI adult language program follows the same philosophy as our children’s language program, promoting natural language acquisition in a friendly and supportive environment. Class sizes are typically small allowing classes to be interactive and responsive to students’ ability level and learning style. 

Classes: We offer four classes: Beginner, Advanced Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced, as well as free trial classes in order to accommodate new students. Prospective students should contact the school for assistance in placement. Class offerings depend upon sufficient enrollment and teacher availability.

Our adult students work with a textbook that is accompanied by an exercise book, a glossary and CDs. Students will have to purchase the textbook and the exercise book. Emphasis is on communication and developing a solid base of vocabulary and grammar skills. All students will use a textbook and workbook that can be purchased from the teachers.

Schedule: Adult classes are conducted virtually, and times may vary.