What are the hopes and concerns of people in today’s Germany? What role does Germany play in the expanding focus of the European Union? What are the most talked about cultural issues of the day? To find answers to these and other questions, we’ll read and discuss online newspaper and magazine articles, and view excerpts from German TV news. Discussion of emergent issues in Germany — from pop culture to politics — will improve your speaking, reading, and listening skills. In increments over the course of the semester, students will create their own newspapers. They will be asked to participate frequently in class discussions, to give one group presentation, and to take a midterm and final exam.