On Thursday 12th March, Martina Schwarz, singer/songwriter, visited Blankenhagen School to treat its pupils to an unusual German lesson.

The hour long performance was the idea of German Teacher Sue Lowe who first made contact with Martina via e-mail last June.  ‘Martina has written two songbooks specifically for children learning German that cover the QCA schemes of work we follow.   While looking at these books online the opportunity presented itself to ask her if she would visit and teach a lesson.’

Martina sang a variety of songs, most of which were known to the pupils having learnt them in their German lessons. The lesson was very interactive with many pupils being asked to stand in front of the class and help with actions and dances. Martina generated plenty of excitement amongst the pupils, getting them to act out parts of the songs as well as having discussions in German about their favourite ice cream flavours and fruit.   

Sue Lowe felt this type of lesson would help increase the interest of the pupils in the subject.  ‘My biggest aim is to raise awareness of teaching German.  It’s going to be statutory in 2010 for pupils from year 3 onwards to learn a language so we want to highlight the fun we have in our lessons as well as learning German.’

Martina, born in Köln and who now works for the Goertha institute in London was enthusiastic about the ability of the pupils. ‘Compared to the schools in England, the pupils here seem very open, very eager and able to talk as well, which is very good.’

Zahara Zaman, Year 5 pupil was one of the many that enjoyed the performance. ‘I thought the show was great.  We got to stand up and dance and sing lots of songs in German.  The teacher was very good and very talented as well as she can speak three languages.’