Soccer for Non-Soccer Players

Soccer is far more than just a sport – it reflects social developments, serves as an expression of identity, and offers a fascinating opportunity for learning in the German as a Foreign Language classroom.
In this workshop, we will dive into the world of German professional and amateur soccer, exploring structures such as promotion and relegation, the role of the German Soccer Association (DFB), international competitions, and the economic dimensions of sponsorship.
Also in focus: the diverse facets of fan culture – from passionate support to fan activism. Teaching materials will be presented on the basics of soccer rules, including the often-feared offside rule, as well as on exciting game scenes, soccer myths, and historic turning points in the sport – for example, in the context of postwar German history.
Film clips will serve as a didactic tool to connect language, culture, and history. Teachers will receive concrete suggestions on how to integrate these topics into their classes in a linguistically sensitive and engaging way.

This workshop is eligible to receive professional development hours or graduate-level credits through our partner Idioma Education & Consulting. Visit goethe.de/usa/idioma for more information.

Speaker: Cornelius Partsch