This paper reflects the work of the AATG Task Force on the Teaching of Culture, established in 2004. It seeks to define the issues and challenges related to the teaching and development of cultural competence in the German language classroom, including the lack of professional consensus regarding appropriate definitions of culture for classroom instruction, common objectives and instructional contents, as well as appropriate assessments in the area of cultural knowledge and awareness. An agenda for research and action to further the development of culture-related goals is suggested.