Clapping Rhymes, Poetry and a Love of Language in German as a Foreign Language Classes

Creativity, movement and the joy of learning German took centre stage in this week's German as a Foreign Language (DaF) lessons at the German International School Accra. Students worked on two exciting projects: traditional German clapping rhymes to share with the school community and original poems for the Cultural Festival organised by the Goethe-Institut Accra.

The week began with clapping rhymes, which the students had already explored during the autumn holidays. After researching and practising different rhymes, they presented their discoveries to their classmates. One particular clapping game proved especially popular: students clapped in turn, with the final syllable determining who won and who was out. The excitement was contagious, and the class could hardly bring themselves to stop playing!

To share this enthusiasm with the wider school community, the students then created colourful posters and filmed short instructional videos explaining and demonstrating the games. These resources will allow students throughout GISA to discover the clapping rhymes and try them out during their breaks. After all, joy shared is joy doubled!

When Words Become Poetry

The second project called for creativity, imagination and a keen sense of language. Preparing for the poetry competition at the Goethe-Institut Accra Cultural Festival, the DaF students devoted considerable time and effort to refining their original poems.

Their work went far beyond simply choosing the right words. How can an image be brought to life through language? Which expression best captures a particular thought or feeling? Where should a pause be placed, and which words need special emphasis during a performance?

With great enthusiasm, students revised their texts, experimented with different expressions, read their poems aloud and carefully polished individual lines. Along the way, they discovered that language is much more than grammar and vocabulary: it is a powerful way to communicate personal thoughts, emotions and ideas. After all, a poem should not only sound beautiful on paper but also leave a lasting impression when performed.

Developing German Language Skills Through Varied Activities

Alongside these creative projects, students continued to strengthen their German language skills through a range of structured learning activities. They practised reading comprehension, worked with the Deutschfuchs learning platform and developed their written communication skills by composing personal emails.

At A2 level, students described their homes and living arrangements in an email to a friend. At B1 level, learners explored the topic of student exchanges, expressing their thoughts and opinions in a written message.

Once again, the week's lessons demonstrated how playful activities, creative expression and targeted language development can complement one another, supporting learners at different levels of German proficiency.

Off to New Adventures!

Next week, most of our DaF students will exchange their classrooms for exciting new learning environments as the school trips get underway! Only students in Grades 5 and 6 will have their regular DaF lesson on Monday.

We wish all our students and accompanying teachers a wonderful time filled with exciting discoveries, memorable experiences and unforgettable moments together. After all, there is so much to learn and explore beyond the classroom!