Monday, June 13, 2011

Fertig! Finished!

Der Deutschkurs ist zu ende!!! Our German class is completed!

Wow! After 6 months, my classmates and I have completed our German Integration course. With the help of 2 marvelous teachers, Klaus and Tarana, we have made it through learning countless confusing words, complicated German grammar, and of course, numerous role plays. Through it all, we laughed, had fun, and made many, many unforgettable memories. Plus, friends from around the world.

Our course had people from Romania, Algeria, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Poland, Iraq, Vietnam, Dominican Republic, Italy, Russia, and Turkey. It was so much fun learning about one another's culture and way of life, and particularly, the reasons why they are currently living in Germany. Most are here because of significant others (sigh, what love will make you do...), but others have come here for a better life or for political asylum from war-ravaged countries.

The final group! From L to R: Siva (Sri Lanka), Diaga (Latvia), Dragos (Romania), Sofia (Italy), Karn (Thailand), So (Nigeria?), Manau (Algeria), Gia (Thailand), Sally (Iraq), me, Klaus (our German teacher), Osmann (Turkey), Minerva, Fatma, Fadime (all from Turkey), and Nghia (Vietnam). Karadisha (Kazakhstan) took the photo.

Some of my good friends...wir haben viel, viel Hausaufgaben gemacht!!! Aber nicht zusammen!

Last week, we began first of our 3 final exams. Our first was a Orientierungsprüfung, a nation-wide test for those who wish to become German citizens. It covered German politics, culture and history. Of course, I don't wish to become a German citizen, but did it out of self-interest. And it was interesting...
Friday, we had our written test, consisting of listening, reading, and writing a letter. It lastest 2 and half hours, but I was very proud of myself when I was finished. I feel fairly confident about both tests so far...now for the final test tomorrow!! Oral!
The oral examination is only 30 minutes long and done with a partner. We introduce ourselves, talk about a picture we are given, and then plan a party or holiday based on a theme we are given in the exam. Should be interesting, as it is totally hands-on, no not forgetting a word! Plus, speaking has always been a challenge for me when it comes to languages...

My learning-German sidekick, Karn. We are takng our oral exam together tomorrow! Eeeckkk!!!!!

Manau and I. He learned English in London and so has a strong Cockney accent. He makes sure to teach me the proper way of saying things! :D