Introduction: As German teachers, we continuously seek engaging and educational resources to captivate our students and enrich their learning experience. One such resource is the film "Männer" (Men), a witty and insightful comedy that masterfully depicts themes of relationships, infidelity, and personal growth. This film not only entertains but also provides profound lessons on self-discovery and the complexities of modern relationships. In this blog, we'll explore the film's themes, its educational value, and how you can effectively integrate it into your classroom using the FilmArobics process.
Exploring the Film: "Männer," directed by Doris Dörrie and released in 1985, tells the story of Julius Armbrust, a successful advertising executive who discovers that his wife, Paula, is having an affair with a struggling artist named Stefan. Determined to win her back, Julius decides to become Stefan’s friend to understand what Paula sees in him. The film’s humorous yet profound exploration of relationships and self-awareness makes it an excellent tool for teaching German language and culture.
Main Themes and Educational Value: The film is rich with themes that are both universal and deeply connected to its social context:
- Complexities of Marriage: The film emphasizes the challenges and dynamics of modern relationships, providing a platform for discussing marriage, infidelity, and personal growth.
- Self-Discovery: The story’s exploration of Julius’s journey towards self-awareness highlights the importance of personal transformation and introspection.
- Social Class Contrasts: The contrast between Julius’s affluent lifestyle and Stefan’s struggling artist persona invites discussions about social class and its impact on personal relationships.
Using the FilmArobics Process: The FilmArobics process offers a structured approach to integrating films into language lessons. Here’s how you can use it effectively with "Männer":
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Pre-Viewing Activities:
- Vocabulary Building: Introduce key vocabulary from the film to ensure students can follow the story.
- Context Setting: Provide background information about the film’s setting, the advertising industry, and the cultural significance of the themes explored in the film.
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Viewing Activities:
- Comprehension Checks: Pause the film at intervals to ask comprehension questions and ensure students are following the plot.
- Discussion Prompts: Encourage students to discuss the characters' motivations, the setting, and the themes as they watch.
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Post-Viewing Activities:
- Cultural Notes: Explore the cultural and social elements depicted in the film, such as the portrayal of marriage, infidelity, and the advertising world.
- Communicative Tasks: Engage students in role-plays or debates based on scenarios from the film to practice their speaking skills.
- Writing Exercises: Assign essays or creative writing tasks that allow students to express their reflections on the film's themes.
Key Dates for Classroom Integration: To enrich your lessons further, consider aligning your activities with significant dates related to the film:
- May 26: Doris Dörrie’s Birthday - Celebrate the director’s contributions to cinema.
- February 13: World Radio Day - Discuss the film’s setting and its depiction of the advertising world.
- June 10: Release Anniversary - Reflect on the film's impact and legacy.
- September 20: International Friendship Day - Explore the film’s themes of friendship and personal growth.
Conclusion: Incorporating "Männer" into your German language curriculum offers a unique opportunity to engage students with authentic cultural content. This film not only enhances language skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for themes of relationships, self-discovery, and social dynamics. By utilizing the lesson plan crafted by FilmArobics, you can provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. Encourage your students to explore the rich tapestry of personal growth, social contrasts, and the humor found in everyday life. Purchase "Männer" today and enrich your classroom with this witty and insightful film.
