English
English is one of the three core subjects taught at the Vocational Grammar School over the course of three school years (one preparatory year and two years in the qualification phase), with four lessons per week throughout. It is a compulsory subject for the Abitur, which means it cannot be dropped and all semester grades from the qualification phase are included in the final Abitur grade.
At the beginning of the qualification phase, students choose whether to study English at an advanced level or at a basic level.
In line with a competence-based approach, the curriculum focuses on the following core competencies (or “skills”):
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
- Mediation
Grade 11 – Introductory Phase
Based on an initial self- and peer-assessment, the course content follows the state curriculum and covers topics such as “Young People / Youth Culture,” “Minorities,” and “The Media / Social Networking.”
We place particular emphasis on both supporting and challenging our students, who come to us with highly diverse learning backgrounds. To this end, we use differentiated materials aligned with the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Self-directed learning units are an integral part of the course, enabling students to develop the skills needed for successful progression into the qualification phase at the end of Grade 11. Extracurricular activities—such as visits to the BallinStadt Emigration Museum, cinema screenings, or theatre performances—form an essential part of the curriculum in Grade 11 and continue into Grades 12 and 13.
Grades 12 & 13 – Qualification Phase
Separate classes are offered for students studying at advanced and basic levels.
The qualification phase is divided into four distinct semesters:
Semester 1 focuses on consolidating previously acquired skills and extending competencies—for example, mediation tasks on business-related topics such as Advertising and Marketing.
Semesters 2 and 3 address the official Abitur themes set by the education authority. One of these is taken from the general curriculum; the second is developed specifically for vocational grammar schools, integrating a professional focus—e.g., Corporate Sustainability.
Semester 4 is dedicated to intensive preparation for the final Abitur examination. After this exam, students receive the Abitur certificate, granting them general university entrance qualifications.