Just refuel in Germany, do some quick shopping or grab a bite to eat across the border. For many children in the region it is the most normal thing in the world.
But the language? That turns out to be a bit more difficult. Fortunately, there is Carmen Hoogenboom, who introduces primary school pupils to German in a playful way.
In a classroom at De Brug primary school in Klazienaveen it still sounds a bit awkward. “Ich heiße Carsten,” begins the eleven-year-old eighth-grade student, while classmate Féline (11) helps him: “Wie alt bist du?” “I’m eleven,” he says, laughing.
Scott (12) and Thomas (12) also participate enthusiastically. German may not be easy, but it is important. And they all understand that. “If you ever have to refuel, you know what to say,” says Carsten seriously. Féline adds: “If you go out to eat, have to go to the toilet or are stopped by the German police, you must be able to speak German.”
The first words have already been learned. “I know Stilles Wasser“, says Carsten proudly. “That is still water, spa blue actually. That’s useful in a restaurant.”
Order your own meal? That works fine now. “Pommes mit mayonnaise!” Thomas shouts, laughing. “Correct,” the response is. “Then I know you want fries with mayo and that’s the idea, right?”
Hoogenboom, who normally teaches secondary education, started giving guest lessons this year. She saw that many students have difficulty with languages once they start high school.
“Then they suddenly have several languages at the same time and that is often too much,” she explains. “I want to introduce them earlier, without the pressure of grades or tests. Just build up vocabulary and enjoy the language.”
That works: “Which of you ever comes to Germany?” she asks. Almost all hands go up. “Now they mainly know words like Bratwurst,” says Hoogenboom. “But no sentences yet, so I’ll start with that.”
Since January, Hoogenboom has been giving guest lectures at various primary schools in Southeast Drenthe. And with success, the students are enthusiastic and curious. “A boy recently asked if I could stay longer,” she says, smiling. “That says it all.”
After the summer she wants to start an eight-week series of lessons as a pilot. She is also in discussions with municipalities about possible subsidies so that more schools can participate.
