The date for your A1 exam (usually "Start Deutsch 1" at the Goethe-Institut or Telc) is getting closer. Your palms are sweating, and you keep asking yourself: "Can I actually do this?"
First, the good news: The A1 exam is not rocket science. You don't have to write perfect novels or discuss philosophy. It is simply about surviving in everyday life.
To help you walk into the exam room relaxed, we will show you exactly how the test is structured and what the examiners are really looking for.
The Exam Structure (Briefly Explained)
The exam almost always consists of four parts. In total, it takes about 70–80 minutes.
1. Listening (approx. 20 min)
You will hear short announcements (e.g., at the train station or on a voicemail).
Tip: Focus on the keywords (numbers, times, places). You do not need to understand every single word to get the right answer!
2. Reading (approx. 25 min)
You read short emails or advertisements and have to answer questions about them (True or False?).
Tip: Read the question first, then the text. This way, you know exactly what information you are looking for.
3. Writing (approx. 20 min)
Usually, you have to fill out a form (Name, Address, etc.) and write a very short email (e.g., "I am sick and cannot come").
Tip: Memorize 2–3 standard sentences perfectly. This guarantees safe points.
4. Speaking (approx. 15 min - Group)
This is the part most people fear. But remember: You usually speak with other students, not just the examiner. You have to introduce yourself, draw a card, and ask a question (e.g., Image "Apple" -> "Do you like eating apples?").
Tip: Speak loudly and clearly. If you forget a specific word, keep it simple (e.g., "Do you have fruit?" instead of "Do you have apples?").
3 Golden Rules to Pass
- Never leave it blank: If you didn't understand something in the "Listening" part, don't overthink it. Just guess and keep listening. Not ticking any box is the only mistake that guarantees 0 points.
- Please & Thank You: In the oral exam, examiners pay close attention to politeness. Asking "Can you please repeat that?" is much better than staying silent.
- Learn the "Cheat Codes": For the letter and the speaking part, there are phrases that always work (e.g., "Mit freundlichen Grüßen", "Wie geht es Ihnen?"). If you master these, you are halfway there.
How Does V-IZ Prepare You?
A general German course teaches you grammar. But at V-IZ, we also prepare you mentally and strategically for the exam situation.
In our videos, Marlene shows you:
- How to introduce yourself perfectly (for full points in the Speaking part).
- How to write simple emails that are error-free.
- How to formulate questions that every examiner loves.
Don't walk into the exam unprepared. Get the confidence you need.
Your exam prep starts here (A1.1):
➡️ Prepare now with Module A1.1
Secure your Certificate (A1 Complete):
➡️ The All-in-One A1 Package
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