German Language

Languages play an essential part in shaping relationships between different cultures in a globalized world. German has a special role in this. It is the native language of over 120 million Europeans. In addition, some 17 million people worldwide are currently learning German as a foreign language. So knowing German provides the opportunity to experience firsthand an exciting part of Europe's culture and other parts of the world.

This section provides you with information about the German language in today’s world. It lists individual programs and opportunities to help you on your path to learning German. Information for teachers of German is also provided.

German for Hire © Goethe-Institut

German Students Visit American Classrooms with German for Hire

American middle- and high school students now have the opportunity to experience Germany firsthand—through the German for Hire program of the Goethe-Institut.

Sprechen Sie Deutsch?

New Push for German as a Foreign Language in the U.S.

German and American institutions in the field of German language instruction have joined forces in the new network "Netzwerk Sprachvergnügen." Find out about funding for your projects to support German language instruction in the United States.

Deutsch - Sprache der Ideen

Inspiring People to Learn German

With the campaign “German – Language of Ideas” Federal Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle aims to promote learning German as a foreign language abroad. Minister of State Pieper recently introduced the campaign.

Reference for everyone - the DUDEN

The DUDEN ― Popular Dictionary and Momentous Witness

This bulky, yet handy, yellow book graces the bookshelves of many German households, and every child knows the five-letter moniker that dominates the cover,  “DUDEN.” First published in 1880, the DUDEN has long been the most popular and established dictionary of the German language, used not only in Germany but also in Switzerland, Austria, and Liechtenstein.  

Why learn German?

Do you like Goethe and Kafka? Are you interested in the different cultures of German-speaking countries? Or do you just like travelling through Europe? These are all good reasons to learn German. Do you need more? 

Students learning German (c) www.colourbox.com

Where To Learn German

It's never too late to learn a new language! Here you'll find some of the many opportunities available to help you, your children, or others begin or continue learning the German language. In addition, students of German usually also learn more about the cultures of German-speaking countries.

© colourbox

Resources for Teachers

Teachers! Searching for a way to close out a unit? Need some ideas as to where to begin? We have some ideas for you! German teachers can find some quick ideas for the classroom and Social Studies teachers can find some new ways to integrate Germany in your classroom. 

PASCH-Logo (c) www.germanyandafrica.diplo.de

PASCH: Education Creates Prospects – Multilingualism Opens Horizons

With the partner school initiative PASCH, a global network of schools is being built. Pupils at these schools are not just given the opportunity of learning German and enjoying German education, but will hopefully gain a long-term interest in modern Germany and the German language.

German Language

do Deutsch - German Weeks Events

Do Deutsch

The German missions and the Goethe Institutes in the US invite you to take part in our event series on German culture and language under the motto "do Deutsch."

Newscast from Deutsche Welle for German learners

Das Tagesschau-Studio mit Moderator Jens Riewa

Every day, you can find the newscast from Deutsche Welle's German Service here -- slowly read and clearly articulated just for German learners. [in German]

Free interactive online German course

Mann mit Kopfhörern

Improve your German with Deutsche Welle's audio and video programs, which include language lessons for beginners, information about Germany and news in German.  

Learn German - German to-go: Deutsche Welle's free offer

Jugendliche vor dem Computer

Improve your German with Deutsche Welle's audio and video programs, which include language lessons for beginners, information about Germany and news in German.

Deutsch@YoungGermany

Logo Deutsch@YoungGermany (c) www.young-germany.de

Deutsch@YG provides you with information on issues that move both German and American youth. To increase your German skills, the information is all provided in German. To test your German a bit more, you can also take the YG German Quiz.