DIFFERENCES BETWEEN GERMAN 101 AND GERMAN 102

Overall, if you have taken German 101 at the UW-Madison you will notice that the format of German 102 is very similar to that of German 101. However, there are some important differences:

• German 102 is even faster paced than German 101.
• German 102 vocabulary becomes more abstract and less suitable for games. Memorization needs to play a greater role. 
• Overall, the amount of new vocabulary is smaller in German 102 than in 101. The opposite is true for grammar.
• German 102 grammar is much more complex and often lacks ready English counterparts. Since the "entire grammar" has to be finished before you enter second year (in which the grammar will be reviewed), there is no leeway. In order to keep up with the pace, extensive home study is required.
• Because Chapter 12 vocabulary and grammar are quite complex and cannot receive as much attention and time as would be needed for mastery, they will be tested receptively (for comprehension) only, i.e., you will be asked to recognize these forms and words but need not produce them. For these same reasons, Chapter 12 vocabulary and grammar, different from other chapters, will be tested together.
• Generally, you should not look for complete mastery of grammar forms in the later chapters. The quizzes will narrow down what is required of you. In fact, it takes years before learners can produce this forms with consistent accuracy. Do not let yourself be discouraged.
• The texts you read will become longer and more complex (but also more authentic or natural and interesting). They cannot possibly be read in class. You need to read texts at home, as assigned by your instructor. Failure to read at home will change the lesson plan for the worse and all students will suffer.
• Overall, you will notice a much increased ability to express yourself in German and comprehend German by comparison to 101. Although you should not expect to be "fluent" or always accurate, you will know (at least in theory) everything there is to know about German grammar and much of the vocabulary needed for every-day life as experienced by a well-educated person.
• In order to help with the transition into second-year courses, German 102 also has a slightly different assignment structure than German 101: There will be one long writing assignment in addition to the five shorter ones and two reading exams instead of one.