If you get the chance to take Intro German with Ilsemann, DO IT! He makes the material fun, interesting, and easy to understand even though the vast majority of the class is taught in German. As far as outside work goes, there is daily homework, but it is generally short and easy. Definitely do the homework!! This is a class where it doesn't take a tremendous amount of work to do well grade-wise, but if you're going for a true understanding of German, any extra time and effort you put in will help.