Goethe A1 Speaking: Questions and Polite Requests

In A1 speaking, short useful sentences are enough to start a conversation. Prepare to introduce yourself, ask and answer everyday questions and make requests. The adult Start Deutsch 1 exam uses a group speaking format.

The speaking exam lasts about 15 minutes for a group of up to four participants. There is no preparation time.

Prepare facts, not a long speech

Say your name, where you live, the languages you speak, your work and a hobby. Practise spelling a name and saying numbers when asked. Leave room for the examiner’s follow-up instead of delivering a biography you cannot interrupt. If a word is difficult, choose a simpler true statement that you can pronounce clearly.

Original question cards

These are original practice cards, not official Goethe cards. Say a complete question rather than reading the keyword alone. Your partner answers it and then asks a different question. Change the card or topic on the next round so the activity checks communication rather than memory of one exchange.

Turn an object into a request

Anna: Können Sie mir bitte den Stift geben? Max: Ja, gern. Hier bitte. Anna: Danke. Max: Können Sie bitte das Fenster öffnen? Anna: Ja, natürlich.

This original exchange shows the difference between a question about an object and a request for action. “Ist das ein Stift?” asks for information; it does not ask somebody to give you the pen. Practise with a glass, book or door. Keep the request polite and respond to what your partner actually asks.

Check whether the exchange works

Record a short practice round with everyone’s permission. Listen for an understandable question, a relevant answer and clear numbers or names. Correct one repeated pronunciation problem at a time. A pause to find a word is less disruptive than abandoning the task. You can practise a polite request for repetition, such as “Noch einmal, bitte.”