News from the DaF Department When words grow – the Grade 5 DaF final exams

Written by: Volker Schlieske

It is one of those days in the school year when the hallway is a little quieter than usual. Grade 5 is taking their DaF final exam – the oral exam in particular is the most exciting moment for many: the first time in front of an examination committee, the first time truly using their own voice in a foreign language.

Outside the exam room, there is that typical mix of nervousness and anticipation. One last look at the notes, a deep breath – and then the exam begins. Often, exactly what makes this day so special happens: nervousness turns into focus, and individual words become real conversations.

The exams are conducted by the DaF coordinator of the primary school, Ms. Baertges, and the DaF coordinator of the Secondary and Upper School, Mr. Schlieske. Both create a calm and appreciative atmosphere in which the students can show what they have learned.

And they do so with impressive dedication, courage, concentration, and above all with joy in the language. They ask questions, tell stories, and explain things – sometimes still with small pauses, but always with genuine engagement and visible enjoyment of German.

There is another highlight in the final week before the holidays, because then the students receive their certificates for successfully passing the exams (don’t worry, nobody failed 😊) – a beautiful, visible conclusion to an intensive learning journey in primary school.

John Dewey once said: “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” And that is exactly how it felt.

Congratulations, Grade 5! Well done