German A1 level Course

German A1 level Course

A1 level German/German a1 course is considered as the elementary use of the language. It contains basic grammar and vocabulary meant for simple conversations. In the Indian Institute of Foreign Language (IIFLS), the A1 level is further divided into A1.1 & A1.2 which helps students gain a thorough understanding of the basics as they embark on their language learning journey.

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According to the Goethe Institute, if you learn A1 level German, here are the things you will be able to do:

• You will be able to understand and use familiar, day-to-day expressions and simple sentences that will help in satisfying concrete needs.
• You will be able to introduce others as well as ask them about themselves – e.g. what they own, where they live and who they know – and respond to questions of this nature.
• You will be able to communicate in a simple manner if the person you are interacting with speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to help.

Simply put, with A1, you are at the level of “Hello, my name is A. I am from B. I am sorry, could you say it again, please, and speak a bit slower?

As for the course itself, let’s take a look at some of the aspects of A1 level German which you will be using in your day-to-day life.

what is the German A1 level?

A1 German level refers to the beginner level of proficiency in the German language. It is the first level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and is considered the starting point for learning German. At this level, learners are able to understand and use basic phrases and expressions, introduce themselves, ask and answer simple questions about personal details, and interact in a simple way provided the other person speaks slowly and clearly. It is the foundation for further language learning and development.

What is the best way to learn German A1?

The best way to learn German A1 is to combine various methods and resources. Here are some tips to help you:

1. Take a structured course: Enroll in a German language course specifically designed for beginners. This will provide you with a solid foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
2. Practice regularly: Consistency is key when learning a new language. Set aside dedicated time each day to practice German, whether it’s through listening exercises, reading, or speaking with native speakers.
3. Immerse yourself in the language: Surround yourself with German as much as possible. Watch German movies or TV shows, listen to German music or podcasts, and try to incorporate the language into your daily life.
4. Use language learning apps and websites: There are many apps and websites available for German A1 courses that offer interactive exercises, vocabulary drills, and language practice. Some popular options include Duolingo, Babbel, and Memrise.
5. Find a language exchange partner: Connect with native German speakers who are learning your native language. This way, you can practice speaking and listening skills with each other, providing a valuable opportunity for real-life conversation practice.
6. Practice with authentic materials: As you progress, start incorporating authentic German materials into your learning, such as newspapers, books, or websites. This will expose you to real-life language usage and help you improve your comprehension skills.

 

What are the topics covered in the German A1 course syllabus?

At the A1 level of German proficiency, learners typically cover a range of basic topics that are essential for everyday communication. Some of the common topics covered at the German  A1 course syllabus include;

1. Greetings and introductions: In the German A1 course syllabus, learners will learn how to greet others, introduce themselves, and exchange basic personal information such as name, age, and nationality.
2. Numbers and counting: In the German A1 course syllabus,  learners will learn how to count from 1 to 100, as well as how to use numbers in various contexts such as telling time, giving phone numbers, and talking about quantities.
3. Family and relationships: Learners will learn how to talk about their family members, describe relationships, and discuss basic family-related topics.
4. Daily routines: In the German A1 course syllabus, learners will learn how to talk about their daily activities, such as waking up, going to work or school, eating meals, and going to bed.
5. Likes and dislikes: Learners will learn how to express their preferences and talk about things they like or dislike, such as hobbies, sports, food, and music.
6. Shopping and ordering: In the German A1 course syllabus, learners will learn how to ask for and give directions, shop for basic items, and order food and drinks in a restaurant or café.
7. Time and dates: Learners will learn how to talk about days of the week, months, seasons, and specific dates, as well as how to ask and answer questions about time.
8. Travel and transportation: In the German A1 course syllabus, learners will learn how to ask for and give directions, use public transportation, and talk about travel plans and experiences.

These are just a few examples of the topics covered at the A1 level of German proficiency. It’s important to note that the specific topics may vary depending on the curriculum or course materials used in the German A1 course syllabus.

How do I learn German on my own to clear the A1 exam?

To learn German on your own and prepare for the A1 exam, you can follow these steps:

6. Set clear goals: define your learning objectives and set a timeline for achieving them. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout your self-study journey of the German A1 exam.
7. Use a structured textbook or online course: Start by using a reputable German language textbook or an online course specifically designed for self-study. These resources will provide you with a structured curriculum, grammar explanations, vocabulary lists, and exercises to practice and clear the German A1 exam.
8. Practice listening and speaking: Listening to German audio materials, such as podcasts, songs, or audiobooks, will help you improve your listening skills. Additionally, try to speak as much as possible. Practice speaking German aloud, even if you don’t have a conversation partner. This will help you improve your pronunciation and fluency This will help to clear the German A1 speaking test.
9. Build vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases regularly. Use flashcards or vocabulary apps to memorize and review vocabulary. Make sure to practice using the words in sentences to reinforce your understanding and usage.
10. Practice reading and writing: Read German texts, such as short stories, news articles, or blogs, to improve your reading comprehension. Start with simple texts and gradually move on to more complex ones. Additionally, practice writing in German by keeping a journal, writing short essays, or participating in online language forums. This helps in German A1 exam reading and writing tests.
11. Find a language exchange partner: Connect with native German speakers who are learning your native language. This will give you an opportunity to practice speaking and listening skills with a real-life conversation partner.
12. Take mock exams: Look for online resources or practice books that offer mock exams for the A1 level. Taking these exams will help you familiarize yourself with the format and assess your progress. Mock exams are always preliminary exams for the final German A1 exam. 
13. Seek feedback: If possible, find a German tutor or join a language study group where you can receive feedback on your speaking and writing skills. They can help you identify areas for improvement and provide guidance on how to address them. 

Remember, self-study requires discipline and consistency. Dedicate regular time to practice and review your progress. Good luck with your A1 exam preparation!

What are the steps for a German A1 course online self-study plan?

Embarking on a German A1 course online self-study plan is a rewarding journey toward language proficiency

Setting Realistic Goals

Establishing realistic and achievable goals is crucial for maintaining motivation throughout the German A1 course online self-study process.

Learning Resources

Explore a variety of learning resources, including online courses, books, and language apps tailored for German A1 level course online learners.

 Structured Study Schedule

If you plan to take a German A1 course online, on self-study,  craft a personalized timetable that accommodates your daily routine, ensuring consistent and focused study sessions.

Vocabulary Building Techniques

Discover effective strategies for expanding your German vocabulary, incorporating both memorization and contextual learning.

Grammar Mastery

Focus on key grammar rules to lay a strong foundation for language proficiency at the German A1 level. 

Speaking Practice

Engage in conversational exercises, both solo and with language partners, to enhance your speaking skills. It helps in confidently attending the German A1 course exam.

Listening Comprehension

Utilize audio resources to improve your listening skills, a vital component of German A1 level proficiency.

Writing Proficiency

Develop your writing skills through consistent practice, incorporating creative and practical writing exercises. Writing proficiency is a must for your German A1 course exam.

Cultural Immersion

While learning the German A1 course online, immerse yourself in German culture through movies, music, and literature to deepen your understanding of the language.

Self-Assessment and Feedback

Regularly evaluate your progress and seek feedback, allowing for continuous improvement in your German A1 online self-study plan.

Overcoming Challenges

Address common challenges faced during the German A1 course online self-study, such as motivation slumps or difficulties in grasping certain concepts.

Time Management Tips

Discover effective time management strategies to balance your German A1 course online self-study with other commitments.

Celebrating Small Wins

Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements to stay motivated throughout your learning journey of German A1 course online.

Creating a Study Group

Explore the benefits of collaborative learning by forming or joining a study group with fellow learners who are interested in the German A1 course online 

Stay consistent

Implement strategies to maintain a consistent study routine, essential for long-term language acquisition.

Mindfulness Techniques

Incorporate mindfulness techniques to manage stress and enhance focus during your German A1 course online self-study.

Exam Preparation

Receive practical tips for successful preparation and performance in the German language A1 level exam.

1. German Alphabet 

Much like the English alphabet, German also has 26 standard letters.However, German also has 4 more extra letters (Ä, Ö, Ü & ß). Ä, Ö & Ü are called “umlauts” and sound very similar to A, O & U, however they are formed in the front of your mouth and have a sharper sound. The letter „β“ is called “eszett” or “scharfes S”; it is basically the equivalent of a double S.

Some unique Characteristics of the German Alphabet:

1. The pronunciation of some of the letters do not exist in the English language
2. Many letters are pronounced more from the back of the throat: ch, r, g.

Note: In some cases the „g“ at the end of a word sounds like a „ch“, especially if the word ends with „ig“.

3. The W in German sounds like English’s V
4. The V in German sounds like English’s F
5. The S in German sounds often like Z in English when it is placed at the beginning of a word followed by a vowel.
6. The eszett (ß) will never appear at the beginning of a word

2.German Numbers

You don’t have to learn all German numbers (Deutsche Zählen) from 1 – 999,999 by heart. If you see the pattern, you will be able to tell the series of numbers as you move forward.

Moreover, don’t get confused with point (decimal) and comma. In England, you write one thousand = 1,000, however, in Germany, you write 1.000. Usually Germans don’t write numbers in words. They write 1 – 10 in words, then just write figures like 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 etc.

3. German Pronunciation

German is a more phonetically-compatible language than English. This means that the German language has consistent sounds for any given spelling. It is important that you know how the German Pronunciation works (For instance, the German ei — always sounds EYE, whereas German ie — always has the ee sound.) In German, exceptions are usually made for foreign words from English, French or other languages

Any student looking to learn German, must focus on the sounds associated with some spelling as soon as possible.

4. German Greetings

When you travel to any German-speaking nation, you will find that the most frequently used phrases and words are the common German greetings (Grüße). These words and phrases will quickly become a habit because you use them every day with everyone you come across.

In most German-speaking countries it’s considered good manners to greet everyone whether you are speaking to a waiter, clerk, or just bumping into someone on the street. As one would expect, you should use a polite greeting at all times. We will take a look at 2 of the most common types of greetings taught in A1 level German: Saying hello and bye-bye!

Saying hello

Some common ways to greet someone in German are:

• Hallo/ Hi (hah-loh) – Hello
• Guten Morgen (goot-en morgen) – Good morning
• Guten Tag (goot-en tak) – Good Day/ Good Afternoon
• Guten Abend (goot-en ah-bent) – Good evening
• Gute Nacht (goot-eh nakht) – Good Night

Note: Nouns have gender in German. Just to be clear, there is no difference between Gute and Guten in terms of meaning. The reason you use Guten with Morgen, Tag and Abend is that these nouns are masculine. On the other hand, you use Gute with Nacht because this noun is feminine.

Saying bye-bye

There are many ways to say goodbye as well:

• Auf Wiedersehen (owf-VEEder-zane) – Goodbye
• Tschüss/ Tschüssi (tchews) – Goodbye [Informal]
• Bis spätter (biss shpay-ter) – See you later
• Bis bald (biss bahlt) – See you soon
• Bis morgen (biss mohr-gen) – See you tomorrow

5. Introducing Yourself

Anywhere you go in a German-speaking place, the need to introduce yourself often arises. Here are some easy sentences you can use to introduce yourself.

1. Mein Name ist – My name is

A great first sentence to learn in German. It’s a logical way to start most conversations.

2. Ich komme aus (country) – I come from

This little phrase denotes your place of birth.

Note: Aus is also one of those tricky prepositions that can have different meanings depending on the context. So, don’t be alarmed if it gets translated as “out,” “off” or something else in other sentences.

3. Ich bin ___ Jahre alt – I am ___ years old.

Keep in mind that the order in German numbers is different compared to English. For example, Twenty-six is translated as sechs und zwanzig (“six and twenty”).

4. Ich lerne Deutsch – I’m learning German

Not only is this an impressive fact about you, but also a great way to get permission to practice some German on someone. Putting it out there from the get-go covers a lot of your grammatical sins. This is usually the equivalent of “studying,” as it’s also used when reviewing old material.

For instance, Ich lerne Deutsch auf IIFLS – I’m learning German at IIFLS.

5. Ich mag – I like

How about a simple yet versatile sentence that can be used over and over?

• Ich mag Fußball – I like Football
• Ich mag das Wochenende – I like the weekend
• Ich mag das Wetter – I like the weather

Note: Mag is actually pronounced “mahk,” as the “g” takes on a “k” sound when placed at the end of a word.

Get more details on German A1 Exam

German A1

 

 

Apart from these, A1 level German will teach you many other things such as basic German phrases, common German verbs, parts of the body etc.