Abstract
Inspired by the debate on the effi cacy of modifi ed input (i.e., teacher talk), this study explored the use of input modifi cations in a traditional German course compared to a business German course. Overall, the business language instructor resorted to less simplifi cation than the instructor of the traditional German course. In terms of general modifications, the business language instructor used frequent repetitions of context-specifi c vocabulary and expressions, while focusing on students’ comprehension of subject matter within the context of the acquisition of language specifi c to business and economics thematic areas. The instructor of the traditional German course used frequent simplification of the target language and a heavier focus on students’ comprehension of “cultural studies” subject matter (often literature or history). The simplifications were not made in an attempt to teach vocabulary and expressions peculiar to the thematic focus.
Recommended Citation
Schierloh, Maren and Paulsell, Patricia R.
(2010)
"Input Modifications by Instructors in Traditional and Business German Courses,"
Global Business Languages: Vol. 15
Article 5.
Available at:
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/gbl/vol15/iss1/5
