For Parents

Why should my child study German?

• Which language?
  When choosing a language to study, students and parents must consider many factors. This link discusses many of the factors that you should consider.



• What are some reasons to learn German?
  Learn some of the most important reasons for learning German, besides the fact that it's fun.



• What can you do with German?
  Learn about some of the career opportunities available for people who have a knowledge of German.



• Newsweek's list of the most powerful countries
  Germany is one of the most powerful economic and technological countries in the world. Overall, it ranks second, only behind the United States.

How can I help my child learn German?

• If you know how to speak German (even just a little bit), use it with them. Playing around with even a few words generates excitement to learn more.


• If you don't speak German, ask them to teach you what they are learning in class. Use what you learn whenever you have the chance. Teaching is the best way to learn something, and seeing your enthusiasm for learning may ignite their enthusiasm.


• If possible, make plans for them to visit a German-speaking country. Even making plans for years in advance gives students a clear objective for language learning. Students can travel with the school, through other study abroad programs or with family and friends. The questions regarding when, where, how and how long to visit vary for each student.


• Quiz them on new vocabulary using flashcards.


• Encourage them to take as many levels of German as possible (even if they don't want to take the AP or IB tests). The more German they know, the more fun learning is because they can concentrate less on words and structures and more on culture and relationships.

How can I communicate with the teacher?

• E-mail betsy.pingen@bvsd.org.
  My preferred method of communication is e-mail. I check my e-mail several times a day, so you should expect to receive a reply within 24 hours.


• Call (303)499-7600. Ask for Pingen or for Extension 3637. Leave a voice message. I try to check my messages every other day and at least once a week.


• Set up a personal conference with me using either of the above methods.

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Contact WebMaster with comments and questions.
Fairview High School
1515 Greenbriar Boulevard
Boulder, Colorado 80305
(303) 499-7600