KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
UNDERGRADUATE PROPOSAL
New Course (Not General Education)
Course Prefix and Number: GRMN 4402
Responsible Department: Foreign Languages
Proposed Effective Date: Spring 2009
(Note: This can be no earlier than the term after approval by the UPCC.)
Signature Page
Submitted by:
Susanne Kelley
Name
___ Approved ___ Not Approved
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October 15, 2007
Date
_____________________________
Department Curriculum Committee, Date
_____________________________
General Education Council*, Date
_____________________________
Professional Teacher Education
Unit Program Area*, Date
_____________________________
Department Chair, Date
_____________________________
College/School Curriculum Committee AND/OR
Teacher Education Council*, Date
_____________________________
College/School Dean, Date
_____________________________
Undergraduate Policies and Curriculum Committee,
Date
_____________________________
Associate VP of Academic Affairs, Date
*For curriculum proposals involving General Education courses, there should be collaboration by the
Department Curriculum Committee and the General Education Council. For Teacher Preparation
proposals, there should be collaboration by the Department Curriculum Committee, the Professional
Teacher Education Unit (PTEU) Program Area Committee, the Teacher Education Council, and the
College/School Curriculum Committee.
Form updated February 23, 2007.
KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
UNDERGRADUATE PROPOSAL
New Course (Not General Education)
I. Proposed Information
Course Prefix and Number: GRMN 4402
Course Title: Contemporary Culture
Credit Hours (format should be # - # - #): 3-0-3
Prerequisites: GRMN 3304 or GRMN 3305 or permission by instructor
(Prerequisites are courses or requirements that non-negotiable and must be successfully
completed by any student before enrolling in the course or program under consideration.
Corequisites are courses that can be taken before or in the same semester as the course under
consideration. Courses at the upper-division level will require lower-division competencies or
prerequisites.)
Course Description for the Catalog:
This course is an examination of the historical, social, and political contexts of the contemporary
experience in the German-speaking world through the analysis of cultural representations such as film,
media, plastic arts, music, and literature. Readings and discussions are in German.
II. Justification for Course
A. Explain assessment findings which led to course development.
Upper-division courses as GRMN 4402 are necessary for students to develop the ACTFL proficiency
rating of Advanced Low. It services students with rising proficiency levels and addresses increasing
enrollment in German Studies. This course is also necessary for German Studies to maintain its
congruency with the courses offered in French and Spanish within the Modern Language & Culture
program.
B. Explain for Prerequisites:
1. What is the substance of content in each prerequisite that commands its inclusion as a
prerequisite to the proposed course?
GRMN 3304 and GRMN 3305 are courses that introduce students to literary, artistic, and cultural
movements over the last one thousand years. Students learn to discuss, analyze, and
differentiate these movements. This basic knowledge is essential for students to be successful in
GRMN 4402.
2. What is the desired sequence of prerequisites?
N/A
3. What is the rationale for requiring the above sequence of prerequisites?
N/A
4. How often are the required prerequisites offered?
As appropriate/once per academic year
C. Give any other justification for the course. NA
II. Additional Information
A. Where does this course fit sequentially and philosophically within the program of study.
This course is intended for students who have completed the bridge courses from language skill
acquisition to content-focused courses. This course is primarily for students intending to major in Modern
Language & Culture with German as the primary language.
B. What efforts have been made to ensure that this course does not duplicate the content of other
college courses with similar titles, purposes, or content?
This course is unique to the Department of Foreign Languages. Because it is conducted in German and
emphasizes content of the German-speaking world, it does not duplicate any other college course.
C. Where will the course be located in the program (elective, required in Area F, required or elective for
the major)? Indicate and justify its placement in the curriculum.
This course will be required for the major.
D. How often will this course be offered?
As appropriate/once every other academic year
E. All sections of the course will be taught with the understanding that the following apply:
1. Purpose of the course
Through the use of specific films and readings, this course aims at providing students with a more
thorough understanding and appreciation of German culture and its reflection of 20 th century historical
events. Students will practice thinking, speaking, and writing critically about a range of literary and filmatic
works.
2. Objectives of the course
In this course, students refine their reading, writing, and speaking skills in German and learn in-depth
analysis of various texts. Materials will include essays, novels, articles, and films on both concrete and
abstract topics. Students will analyze and expand on the readings in writing and orally through
conversations, dialogues, and a formal presentation.
3. Course content
Students will read and analyze literary works and accompanying films and reflect on the importance 20th
century history has in Germany’s contemporary culture.
F. What instructional methodologies will be incorporated into the course to stimulate group process,
writing skills, multiculturalism, and educational outcomes?
A variety of methodologies will be incorporated into the course. These include use of technology, group
work, oral presentations on multicultural topics, written production which includes a research project,
written summaries and content analysis of readings.
G. Outline the plan for continuous course assessment. What are the department, school, college, or
professional standards which will be used for the assessment? How will it be determined that the course
is current, meeting the educational needs of students and responsive to educational standards? How
often will the course assessment be done by the department? The course will be assessed on a regular
basis in end-semester student evaluations. All courses offered in German Studies are consistent with the
principles, professional standards, and learning objectives identified by the KSU Department of Foreign
Languages and by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). Assessment
tools for student progress will include the following:
Compositions
Oral presentations
Research project
Final exam
H. Required Syllabus Contents (See Faculty Handbook, page 3.10 for details about KSU syllabi).
1. Course Prefix Number and Title see attached syllabus
2. Instructor:
a. Office:
b. Telephone:
3. Learning Objectives
4. Text(s)
5. Course Requirements/Assignments
6. Evaluation and Grading
7. Weekly Schedule of Topics
8. Academic Honesty Statement
9. Attendance Policy
II. Resources and Funding Required
A. What resources will be redirected to accommodate this course?
NA
A. Explain what items will cause additional cost to the department/school/college
PersonnelNA
Computer TechnologyNA
Library resourcesNA
EquipmentNA
SpaceNA
IV. COURSE MASTER FORM
This form will be completed by the requesting department and will be sent to the Office of the Registrar
once the course has been approved by the Office of the
President. The form is required for all new courses.
DISCIPLINE: GRMN
COURSE NUMBER: 4402
COURSE TITLE FOR LABEL: Contemporary Culture
(Note: Limit 30 spaces)
CLASS-LAB-CREDIT HOURS: 3-0-3
Approval, Effective Semester: Spring 2009
(Note: This can be no earlier than the term after approval by the UPCC.)
Grades Allowed (Regular or S/U): Regular
If course used to satisfy CPC, what areas?
Learning Support Programs courses which are
required as prerequisites:
APPROVED:
_______________________________________________________________________
Vice President for Academic Affairs or Designee
Kennesaw State University
Department of Foreign Languages
(www.kennesaw.edu/foreign_lang)
Spring 2009 GRMN 4402 Section 01
Contemporary Culture in the German-speaking World:
Germany—living its past and present in contemporary literature
and film
Instructor:
Dr. Susanne Kelley
Office:
PS 254
Office phone: 678-797-2383
Office hours: tba
E-mail: skelle16@kennesaw.edu
Textbooks:
 Reimer, Robert and Reinhard Zachau. Arbeitsbuch zu German Culture through Film.
Newburyport: Focus, 2006.
 Schlink, Bernhard. Der Vorleser. 1997
 Brussig, Thomas. Am kürzeren Ende der Sonnenallee. 2001
 Any standard College Dictionary English-German/German-English
Catalog Description:
This course is an examination of the historical, social, and political contexts of the contemporary
experience in the German-speaking world through the analysis of cultural representations such as
film, media, plastic arts, music, and literature. Readings and discussions are in German.
Course Goals:
Through the use of specific films and readings, this course aims at providing students with a
more thorough understanding and appreciation of German culture. This course will introduce
students to the importance 20th century history has in Germany’s contemporary culture. Students
will practice thinking, speaking, and writing critically about a range of literary and filmatic
works.
Course Expectations:
Participation and Attendance: Classroom activities are mainly concerned with the acquisition
of active communication skills, which means that students will frequently prepare oral and
written assignments in pairs and groups (speaking and writing only German). Class will begin on
time. Punctual attendance is mandatory and absolutely essential. Students are expected to attend
all classes. The maximum number of absences is three. All absences, excused or unexcused, will
be counted as absences. Each additional absence over the maximum will result in your final grade
being lowered by 3%. If students must be absent from class, it is their responsibility to find out
what the assignment was for that day and to turn homework in on time.
Assignments and Tests: Assignments cannot be made up, except in cases of documented family
or medical emergencies. Students must submit homework on the day it is due. Students are
expected to be able to respond to homework assignments orally as well.
Evaluation:
3 Essays
Assignment Portfolio
Presentation
Final Paper
Oral Assessment
100 points each
250 points
100 points
250 points
100 points
30%
25%
10%
25%
10%
Total
1000 points
100%
Grading Scale: 100-90%=A; 89-80%=B; 79-70%=C; 69-60%=D; 59% and below=F

Criteria for evaluation of speaking:
(a) Vocabulary (use of words in context; variety)
(b) Pronunciation (pronunciation is accurate enough so as not to interfere with
comprehension)
(c) Fluency (hesitation in speech production does not alter the message)
(d) Accuracy (grammatical mistakes are limited)
(e) Creativity (speech production includes some elements of a story line; use of some
circumlocutions)

Criteria for evaluation of writing:
(a) Content (argument is clearly defined; ideas are well connected, clearly presented, and
supported by examples; conclusion wraps up the argument without repeating it)
(b) Vocabulary (use of words in context; variety)
(c) Organization (argument, ideas, and conclusion are well structured; correct use of
transitional sentences)
(d) Accuracy (appropriate use of grammatical structures)
(e) Creativity (use of complex sentences; varied syntax)
Student Learning Outcomes
This course will contribute to the attainment of the following general (GSLO) and specific
(SSLO) student learning outcomes of the B.A. in Modern Language & Culture (ML&C):
GSLO ML&C 1: LANGUAGE, LINGUISTICS, & COMPARISONS
Learners are proficient in using the target language, are familiar with the target language system,
and seek opportunities to further develop their skills and knowledge. (Knowledge, Skills,
Attitudes)
SSLO ML&C 1.a.: Demonstrating Language Proficiency.
Learners demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the target language, and they seek
opportunities to strengthen their proficiency. (Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes)
To address this outcome, learners will
 read two novels and various material pertaining to the films watched in and
outside of class
 improve their oral skills by participating in on-going class discussions about
the readings, films, and associated topics covered in the course
 improve their writing skills by writing and revising three essays of increasing difficulty as well as a
final researched paper.
 complete written homework assignments throughout the semester.
 deliver an oral presentation. Learners are expected to speak in connected discourse
using a variety of time frames and vocabulary appropriate to the topic.
Assessment:
 Evaluation of three essays in their original and revised versions.
 Evaluation of final research paper.
 Weekly evaluation of written homework assignments.
 Evaluation of oral presentation.
GSLO ML&C 2: CULTURES & LITERATURES
Learners know the literature and culture of the target language countries. They use this
knowledge to interpret and reflect upon the perspectives of the target culture in relation to its
practices and products. (Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes)
SSLO ML&C 2.a.: Demonstrating Cultural Understandings.
Learners demonstrate that they understand the connections among the perspectives of a
culture and its practices and products. (Knowledge, Skills)
To address this outcome, learners will
 read, study, and analyze two novels and various films.
 research information on selected topics related to the course content and report the results to the
class.
Assessment:
 Evaluation of text and film analysis in the short and long papers.

Evaluation of oral presentation on a related topic of learner’s choice.
SSLO ML&C 2.b.: Demonstrating Understanding of Literary and Cultural Texts and
Traditions.
Learners recognize the value and role of literary and cultural texts and use them to interpret
and reflect upon the perspectives of the target cultures over time. (Knowledge, Skills,
Attitudes)
To address this outcome, learners will
 read and study two novels and various films representing Germany’s
relationship with its 20th century history and 21st century present.
Assessment:
 Evaluation of learner’s written and oral analysis and understanding of the material
and topics covered.
Academic honesty statement: Every KSU student is responsible for upholding the provisions of
the Student Code of Conduct, as published in the Undergraduate and Graduate Catalogs. Section
ii of the Student Code of Conduct addresses the University’s policy on academic honesty,
including provisions regarding plagiarism and cheating, unauthorized access to University
materials, misrepresentation/falsification of university records or academic work, malicious
removal, retention, or destruction of library materials, malicious/intentional misuse of computer
facilities and/or services, and misuse of student identification cards. Incidents of alleged
academic misconduct will be handled through the established procedures of the University
Judiciary Program, which includes either an “informal” resolution by a faculty member, resulting
in grade adjustment, or a formal hearing procedure, which may subject a student to the Code of
Conduct’s minimum one semester suspension requirement.
Disability Policy: Kennesaw State University provides program accessibility and reasonable
accommodations for persons identified as disabled under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
of 1973 or the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. A number of services are available to
help disabled students with their academic work. In order to make arrangements for special
services, students must visit the Office of Disabled Student Support Services (ext. 6443) and
arrange an individual assistance plan. In some cases, certification of disability is required.
TENTATIVE CLASS SCHEDULE
GRMN 4402 – Spring 2009
Week 1
Course Introduction / What is culture?
Week 2
German cinema of the 1990s: Lola rennt (film)
Week 3
Germany living with its past: Der Vorleser (novel)
Week 4
Germany living with its past: Der Vorleser (novel)
Week 5
Germany living with its past: Nirgendwo in Afrika (film)
Week 6
Germany living with its past: Der Vorleser (novel)
Week 7
Germany living with its past: Der Vorleser (novel)
Week 8
Germany living with its past: Der Vorleser (novel)
Week 9
Germany after Reunification: Das Versprechen (film)
Week 10
Germany after Reunification: Am kürzeren Ende der Sonnenallee (novel)
Week 11
Germany after Reunification: Am kürzeren Ende der Sonnenallee (novel)
Week 12
Germany after Reunification: Good Bye, Lenin! (film)
Week 13
Germany after Reunification: Am kürzeren Ende der Sonnenallee (novel)
Week 14
Germany after Reunification: Am kürzeren Ende der Sonnenallee (novel)
Week 15
Germany after Reunification: Sonnenallee (film)
Week 16
Review and Student Presentations