German Program

Overview

Strathcona High School is unique in its certification as an official testing center for the German language proficiency diploma (Deutsches Sprachdiplom I and II). Whether starting as a beginner or continuing from a bilingual program, students follow a pathway toward fluent communication and international certification.

Path 1: German Language and Culture (Second Language)

Courses: German 10 - 20 - 30-3Y

This stream is designed for students with little or no previous instruction in German. The focus is on developing the ability to communicate and exchange information in everyday situations.

Focus: Building a foundation in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Outcome: Students arrive at a functional level of fluency, with some reaching an intermediate level capable of providing reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.
Certification: Students in this stream could take the DSD I exam, certifying a basic level of fluency based on international standards (A2/B1).

Path 2: German Bilingual / Advanced Placement

Courses: German Language Arts 10 AP – 20 AP – 30 AP

The bilingual stream is designed for students who have completed Grades 1 through 9 in the German Bilingual program or possess high-level proficiency (minimum B1 - please contact the school to organize an assessment if your student is not currently in the bilingual program).

Focus: This is treated as a Language Arts program, utilizing authentic German literature, film, and media. Students learn to think critically and discuss complex issues and current events entirely in German.
Outcome: Students will develop critical thinking skills and near-native spoken and written fluency, which will facilitate their ability to express themselves in detailed texts and presentations.
Certification: Students will prepare for the German AP exam and the DSD II. The DSD II is a prestigious proficiency diploma that allows students to study at many German universities—often leading to tuition-free post-secondary education.

Global Opportunities & Cultural Immersion

We believe language is best learned through experience. Our program offers:

Exchanges: A specialized exchange opportunity to Germany through Alberta Education, where students are paired with peers in the German state of Hessen.
Authentic Experiences: Students will access authentic German media and materials, including but not limited to films, books, magazines, and videos. We also take trips within the local German-speaking community to enjoy authentic food and events.

German: Quick Facts for Parents

Credits: All German courses are worth 5 credits.
Testing: Scona is authorized as an official DSD (Deutsches Sprachdiplom) testing center.
Goal: Our programs aim for functional fluency and critical thinking, enabling students to navigate German-speaking environments and pursue international opportunities.
Success: When our students pass the DSD II exam, this provides a pathway to tuition-free education at some universities in Germany.
University Advantage: Students are able to use a 30-level German language course to apply to a variety of university programs and for scholarship applications.