Sammelsurium: A Reader and Workbook for Intermediate German

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

A combined reader/workbook for second-year German, Sammelsurium focuses on cultural awareness while building competence in reading, writing, and speaking, and can be used with equal effectiveness as either a supplementary text or as the main reader in a course. Included are thirty-eight brief yet stimulating readings on a wide range of topics of special significance to German culture, each of which offers intermediate-level grammatical constructions and vocabulary. Many readings incorporate a verb-tense exercise, and each reading is accompanied by a separate set of vocabulary as well as an array of comprehension questions and communicative exercises. From the Brothers Grimm to German film -- and from fashion to the nightlife of Berlin the workbook offers something for every taste, while strengthening skills needed by every student of German. Features: Literary texts spanning 400 years, profiles of iconic historical figures, and fascinating articles on contemporary German culture. In-depth coverage of Berlin as the capital and leading cultural center of Germany. Articles on the German passion for soccer and golf. Focus on major historical figures in the sciences (eg: Rontgen, Koch, and Copernicus) as well as music (Ludwig van Beethoven and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart). Innovative emphasis on the narrative past, aimed at both acquiring new verbs and using them in composition. Readings that challenge common cultural preconceptions, as well as offer unexpected insights into similarities and differences between German and American culture.

Reviews

"This traditional-style reader offers a wealthindeed a smorgasbordof useful material for instructors desiring to help students become fluent readers. The readings can be used selectively and cover a wide range of topics pertaining to contemporary German culture. The freedom instructors have to use the texts as they see fit is an attractive feature of this reader. Another strength in terms of flexibility is the numerous exercises that go with each text. These also vary in level of difficulty as the students work through them, starting with simple context questions and ending with open-ended writing prompts. . . . A striking feature of this collection is that most of the texts are exercises in and of themselves, in that students must supply the past tense (usually the narrative past) of the verbs required for the readings. The flexibility of this reader, the diverse texts, the opportunity to actively and thoroughly practice the narrative past, the authentic language, and the large variety of exercises make this collection well worth consideration." Julie Winter, Western Washington University, in Die Unterrichtspraxis / Teaching German
" Sammelsurium is half reader, half workbook and intended for the intermediate level, either as a "supplementary reader or as the main reader in the course" (vii). The 38 texts that make up this remarkable anthology range from the Brothers Grimm to contemporary German film but all have a special connection to German culture and are admirably suited for intermediate students. Moreover, there is no reason why AP students also should not find this text useful. As the unusual title suggests, there is something here for every taste. As I perused the table of contents, I found myself carried away and then I discovered the rich linguistic apparatus covering a variety of grammar and vocabulary topics, which a traditionalist like myself, who loves grammar, will be thrilled to explore. Sammelsurium lacks the bells and whistles of other more sophisticated web-supported texts but remains an effective teaching tool, especially if accompanied by some supplementary audiovisual materials. I personally like the emphasis on language and grammar and old-school approach, which is exemplary in its rigor." Tom Conner, St. Norbert College, in the NECTFL Review

Author Bio

Franz-Joseph Wehage is Professor of German, Muskingum University.