Beginner German
A1 is the first level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). At this level, you can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type.
Estimated study time: 60 hours
What You Can Do
At A1 level, you can:
- Introduce yourself and others
- Ask and answer questions about personal details (where you live, people you know, things you have)
- Interact in a simple way if the other person talks slowly and clearly
- Understand basic German words and phrases
- Use simple greetings and farewells
- Count and use basic numbers
- Describe yourself and others in simple terms
- Talk about daily routines and activities
- Express basic needs (hunger, thirst, tiredness)
- Understand simple signs and notices
Pronunciation
Learn German pronunciation with beginner-friendly guides. Master the alphabet, umlauts (ä, ö, ü), and the CH sound with clear examples.
A1 Pronunciation →Vocabulary
Learn essential German vocabulary for absolute beginners. Master approximately 600-700 words covering basic topics like greetings, numbers, family, food, colors, and everyday objects.
A1 Vocabulary →Reading
Practice A1 reading comprehension with short everyday texts and interactive questions.
Read an email from Anna. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read about Mehmet's daily routine. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read about shopping at the supermarket. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read about a doctor's appointment. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read about weekend plans (cinema, family). Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read about commuting to work by bus. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a birthday party invitation. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a note from a new neighbor. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a flat ad and a short e-mail. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a message with directions. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a café menu with prices. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a short text about a family. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a holiday postcard. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read an e-mail to change an appointment. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a registration form. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a clothing shop flyer. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a short description of a person. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read a note from school. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read five short signs. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Read three short ads. Practice true/false, multiple choice and fill-in questions.
Grammar
Master fundamental German grammar concepts essential for beginners. You'll learn 11 core grammar topics:
Nouns & Articles
Pronouns
Verbs
Sentence Structure
Cases
Prepositions
Adjectives & Adverbs
Numbers, Time & Dates
Tenses
Negation
Questions
Skills
📖 Reading
You can understand familiar names, words, and very simple sentences, for example on notices and posters or in catalogs.
✍️ Writing
You can write a short, simple postcard, for example sending holiday greetings. You can fill in forms with personal details, for example entering your name, nationality, and address on a hotel registration form.
👂 Listening
You can recognize familiar words and very basic phrases concerning yourself, your family, and immediate concrete surroundings when people speak slowly and clearly.
🗣️ Speaking
You can interact in a simple way provided the other person is prepared to repeat or rephrase things at a slower rate of speech and help you formulate what you're trying to say. You can ask and answer simple questions in areas of immediate need or on very familiar topics.
Practice Exercises
Practice A1 level German with interactive exercises covering vocabulary, grammar, reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
A1 Exercises →Mock tests
Check your A1 readiness with a timed-style mock test based on our pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to know for A1 German?
For A1 German, you need to master the vocabulary, grammar topics, and skills listed on this page. Focus on understanding and using the grammar structures, building your vocabulary, and practicing all four language skills.
How long does it take to reach A1 level?
It typically takes approximately 60 hours of study to reach A1 level. This includes structured learning, practice, and regular exposure to the language.
What's the difference between A1 and the previous level?
A1 is the starting point for absolute beginners with no prior German knowledge.