Question 1

What is the format of Goethe B1 Speaking?

Accepted Answer

The Goethe B1 Sprechen module lasts approximately 15 minutes for both candidates and is conducted as a pair examination. It consists of three parts: Teil 1 (Gemeinsam planen) where you plan an activity together (3 minutes, 28 points), Teil 2 (Thema präsentieren) where you give a short presentation (3 minutes per candidate, 40 points), and Teil 3 (Feedback & Austausch) where you discuss and give feedback (2 minutes per candidate, 16 points). Additionally, pronunciation and intonation are assessed throughout (16 points).

Question 2

How does Teil 1 (Gemeinsam planen) work?

Accepted Answer

In Teil 1, you and your partner receive a scenario (e.g., organizing a DVD evening, planning a birthday party, or arranging a hospital visit). You have 15 minutes preparation time to make notes. During the exam, you discuss the given points, make suggestions, respond to your partner's ideas, and reach a joint decision within 3 minutes.

Question 3

What should I do in Teil 2 (Thema präsentieren)?

Accepted Answer

In Teil 2, you present a topic using 5 slides as guidance. The slides cover: 1) Introduction and structure, 2) Your personal experience, 3) The situation in your home country, 4) Pros and cons with your opinion, 5) Conclusion and thanks. You speak for about 3 minutes. Topics include everyday issues like "Do children need mobile phones?" or "Should children learn to cook?"

Question 4

What happens in Teil 3 (Feedback & Austausch)?

Accepted Answer

After your presentation, you answer questions from the examiners and your partner. After your partner's presentation, you give feedback (what you found interesting, what was new to you) and ask at least one question about their topic. This tests your ability to interact naturally and respond spontaneously.

Question 5

How should I use the 15-minute preparation time?

Accepted Answer

Use the preparation time wisely: For Teil 1, note down suggestions for each discussion point. For Teil 2, write keywords (not full sentences) for each slide. Practice useful phrases for giving opinions, agreeing/disagreeing, and making suggestions. Don't memorize a script—examiners want natural interaction.

Question 6

What do examiners look for in B1 Speaking?

Accepted Answer

Examiners assess four criteria: 1) Task completion—did you cover all required points? 2) Interaction—do you engage with your partner, ask questions, and react to their ideas? 3) Vocabulary and grammar range—can you express yourself clearly? 4) Pronunciation and fluency—is your speech understandable and reasonably smooth? Natural interaction is valued over perfect grammar.

Goethe German B1 Sprechen (Speaking) Practice

Goethe German B1 Sprechen (Speaking) Practice

About the Section

Teil 1: Gemeinsam etwas planen (Planning Together)

Teil 2: Ein Thema präsentieren (Present a Topic)

Teil 3: Über ein Thema sprechen (Discuss a Topic)

Teil 1 - Gemeinsam etwas planen (Planning Together)

Teil 2 - Ein Thema präsentieren (Present a Topic)

Teil 3 - Über ein Thema sprechen (Discuss a Topic)

Frequently Asked Questions