This intermediate, modular approach to German grammar serves as both a reference handbook and a practice manual. The text is organized to allow instructors to follow each chapter sequentially or to teach in modules, as each chapter is self-contained and can be used in any order. The structure of the 24 regular chapters provides a presentation of new information, followed by material for oral and written practice: Grammatik (grammar), Wortschatz (vocabulary), Übungen (exercises, self-practice, and small-group practice), Anwendung (application, in-class group activities), Schriftliche Themen (writing topics), and Zusammenfassung (summary). The six reference chapters consist of grammar presentations through explanations, models, and charts; and Übersicht (summary).
Handbuch recognizes that language learning should always be interwoven with cultural learning, and that contextualizing language wherever possible is a crucial step in helping students understand this relationship.
In this edition, each chapter begins with a brief introduction of a topic, which is then reflected in the examples throughout the chapter. This allows the examples to be “about” something, rather than simply random statements and questions. The intention is not to “cover” the topic−no text or set of texts could possibly do that−but to pique students' interest so they will explore these topics (and others) on their own.
Wortschatz. New vocabulary sections, addressing semantic topics that are notoriously difficult for non-native speakers of German: How to say because: learning how to use weil / denn / dahow to say to go to: detailed explanations and examples for using gehen + nach / auf / in / zu.
New verb paradigms. The new verb charts throughout the chapters now clearly show the use of Sie as a second-person conjugation in both singular and plural usage.
There are 24 regular chapters consisting of thorough grammar explanations, models, charts followed by a vocabulary section (Wortschatz), ample structured practice (Übungen), open-ended activities (Anwendung), and a writing section (Schriftliche Themen) including strategies (Tipps zum Schreiben). The chapter wraps up with a summary (Zusammenfassung) of the main points (Rules to Remember) and charts (At a Glance).
Every chapter opens with a cultural theme or focus (Zum Beispiel) that serves as a basis for discussion of the chapter's grammar points.
The six reference chapters feature more condensed grammar presentations and no activities.