Danish Language Programs
Learn Danish with the Northwest Danish Association! We offer classes in the community year-round for anyone wishing to learn how to speak, read, and write in Danish. In the classes, students also explore Denmark and discuss Danish culture.
Our classes are now held online via Zoom – anyone from near and far can join in and learn Danish with us. The Spring Term 2021 is based in Seattle (PT), classes are in session.
Beginner Class
Spring Term: April 10th to June 5th, 2021
Time: Saturday mornings, 9:00 am to 10:30 am (PT)
Level: Beginner Level
About this Class: We will use the textbook “Colloquial Danish, 2nd Ed” (available online for free) as a jumping-off spot to introduce students to the basics of the Danish language. Supplemental materials will be available to students on the teacher’s website, including audio dialogues. We’ll focus a lot on pronunciation, and the complex relationship between spoken and written Danish, as well as basic phrases and idioms used to talk about subjects such as greetings, family, food, weather, time, transportation, etc. The class atmosphere is one of respect, encouragement, fun, and delight. Questions are always welcome as are some “bunny trails” (unplanned teaching moments sparked by students’ questions and interests).
About the instructor: Melissa Lucas has a unique blend of skills to help you learn Danish. Her degrees include a PhD in Scandinavian Studies, MA in Linguistics, and MS in Speech Pathology. Having initially learned Danish as an exchange student in college, Melissa is particularly aware of the pitfalls and difficulties Americans face when tackling Danish as an adult. She is well equipped to help you avoid these traps, and absolutely loves doing it! She has taught Danish to college students and community members in the Seattle area for 15 years.
In this class, students will:
* learn the basics of pronunciation
* use note-taking symbols to help them recall pronunciations
* get tips for producing some of the unusual sounds of Danish
* learn vocabulary for use in simple conversations about common themes
* practice reading aloud and speaking to others in short dialogues
Intermediate Class
Spring Term: April 10th to June 5th, 2021
Time: Saturday mornings, 9:00 am to 10:30 am (PT)
Level: Intermediate Level
About this class: The class will use a variety of media (e.g. news articles, poems, songs, videos, games, etc.) to engage students in conversation and learning about Denmark and Danish culture – particularly with a focus on relations to the US and current affairs. Students will have the opportunity to improve their understanding of Danish texts, songs, and spoken Danish. They will also be able to practice their conversation skills and pronunciation.
About the instructor: The teacher for this class is Adrian Tan, a native Dane living in Seattle. He has been teaching the class at NWDA for 4 terms and has experience teaching in Denmark.
The objectives of the class are:
- To improve student’s conversation skills in Danish
- To provide students with cross-cultural knowledge of Denmark and Danish culture
- To practice talking about various topics in Danish
For this class, you must be an intermediate-level Danish speaker that can engage in some conversation in Danish. Contact NWDA at seattle@nwdanish.org if you are unsure whether this class is suitable for your level of Danish.
The focus of the intermediate Danish class with Adrian Tan is Danish culture and conversation.
Why Learn Danish
Denmark is a small country with a language that is not widely used. However, there are many benefits to learning the Danish language!
Visit Denmark: Be able to get around easily when you visit Denmark and experience the Danish culture in a deeper way!
Family: Speak to your Danish relatives and friends.
Study Abroad: Be prepared if you plan to go study in Denmark. Denmark has high-quality study programs.
Other Languages: Learning Danish can be a gateway to learning other languages, especially other Scandinavian languages.
What You Get
Small, intimate classes
Great teachers
Fun and unique content!