Even if German as a foreign language is not one of the most difficult languages in the world, it is not an easy foreign language for many. Perseverance, discipline, consistency and patience are required. Especially when new characters have to be learned at the same time, German as a foreign language is a real challenge for language learners. It’s not something you learn on the side.
Learning German as a foreign language
The important thing is that you get involved with the language and are willing to learn German.
Strong motivation and discipline can help you to persevere with the language course until you reach the desired language level.
This is how learning German as a foreign language works:
- Create a learning plan that can serve as a performance review. Schedule fixed times for learning German in your daily routine.
- Set goals: Why do you want to learn German?
- Learn, read and speak German regularly.
- Always learn nouns with the corresponding article.
- Don’t learn vocabulary by covering it up in the book, but make your own vocabulary booklet.
- Difficult vocabulary can be found on index cards or on post-its on the mirror, cupboard, etc.
- Take breaks from learning.
- Train your listening comprehension by watching DVDs, TV series or films in German; this also works with German songs.
- Speak to native German speakers in German, even if you are still at the very beginning of your German language skills.
- Don’t be ashamed of mistakes when speaking, these are normal and will become fewer and fewer over time. Language exchange apps or chatting with native-speaking tandem partners can also support your language course.
What language levels are there?
According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, there are six language levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. They are divided into elementary, independent and competent language use.
A1 – Beginners
A2 – Basic knowledge
B1 – Advanced use of language
B2 – Independent use of language
C1 – Professional language skills
C2 – Almost native speaker knowledge
How long does it take to learn German as a foreign language?
On average, participants in the “German as a foreign language” courses need around three months to reach a proficiency level. This is based on daily lessons of at least three full hours per day.
Which language diplomas are available in Germany?
Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz (A1 to C2):
Language test for DAF or DAZ, which can be taken after several years of German lessons at school
German certificate from the Goethe Institute:
B1-Zertifikat Deutsch as one of the most important certificates
Participants aged 16 and over, A1-C2)
TEL for German (A1 to C2) Participants:
Students and adults who want to improve their German language skills in general or specifically for professional life
No matter what your language level is – practice makes perfect. We are happy to practise with you in our language courses. You can choose whether you would prefer to take an intensive one-to-one course or learn German in an intensive group. For companies that want to train their employees, we also offer German as a foreign language in a group course.