German-English Program
We believe in the power of language and provide a supportive environment where students can become confident communicators.
Language learning is woven into every subject, creating a rich and immersive cultural learning experience.
GSB offers a range of supportive programs to help students excel in both English and German languages and overcome any challenges they may face.
Our model for language acquisition
6 key elements
Consistent exposure
The target language (German or English) is integrated throughout the curriculum. Our "one teacher, one language" approach provides students with an authentic learning experience. Native-speaking teachers deliver instruction, ensuring genuine cultural immersion and a deeper understanding of the target language.
Active learning
Our inquiry and project-based curriculum encourages student participation through games, discussions, and interactive activities.
Authentic materials
GSB utilizes educational resources and materials from officially recognized textbook publishers from German School System both in lower school and middle school.
Cultural integration
We connect learning with the German, Austrian and Swiss cultures.
Differentiation - One size fits none
GSB accepts students of varying language proficiencies and offers targeted support for either ELL or GLL students. Learn more here
Assessment & feedback loop
We use different ways to check progress and guide teaching for each student in every grade.
Grade by grade, word by word
-
3s & 4s + Kindergarten
70% GERMAN, 30% ENGLISH
Preschoolers at GSB learn in a mostly German-speaking setting, which helps them pick up the language naturally. Our native German teachers provide fun experiences with songs, games, and hands-on, inquiry-based activities. This playful method enables students to acquire the German language effortlessly, while further developing their innate curiosity for the world around them.
-
1st - 5th grade
50% GERMAN, 50% ENGLISH
In the Lower School program, students develop a strong foundation in reading, writing, as well as math in both German and English. This bilingual approach not only enhances their language skills but also equips them with the tools to tackle complex topics in other subjects. Our dedicated teachers collaborate to design lessons that encourage students to make connections between different concepts.
Starting in 3rd grade, students will also start to learn basic Spanish as a subject.
-
6th - 8th grade
50% GERMAN, 50% ENGLISH
In the Middle School program, students continue their bilingual education where 50% of their subjects are taught in German and 50% in English. Core subjects such as math, science are taught in English, while Biology and History are taught in German. As students progress through grades 6 to 8, both the complexity of topics and the use of academic language increase, preparing them for advanced study in both languages.
Lessons are designed to deepen critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and subject mastery, while reinforcing fluency and literacy in German and English.
German language learning culminates with the DSDI Assessment in the spring of 8th grade.
Final year at GSB (8th grade):
Language Mastery & Cultural Exchange
German Language Diploma (DSDI)
As an officially recognized German school abroad, our 8th graders take the Deutsches Sprachdiplom I (DSD I) exam, an internationally recognized certification of German language proficiency. This exam assesses their skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, showcasing their ability to communicate effectively in German. We are proud to share that our students consistently perform exceptionally well, opening doors to future academic and cultural opportunities both in Germany and beyond.
2 weeks exchange program with Josef-Schwarz Schule (JSS) in Germany
Our International Exchange Program offers 8th grade students the unique opportunity to attend school in Germany for two weeks, fully immersing themselves in the language and culture.
During the exchange, students gain a global perspective by living with host families. In turn, JSS students also visit GSB for two weeks. This experience fosters independence, cross-cultural understanding, and lifelong connections with peers from around the world.
