telc Deutsch A2: the exam parts

Start Deutsch 2

telc Deutsch A2 is the Start Deutsch 2 exam. The Goethe-Institut has since replaced it with its own Goethe-Zertifikat A2, which is built differently; at telc it continues. So when you prepare, pay close attention to telc's format.

Running order

Reading and writing share one block of 50 minutes; how you split it is up to you. Leave enough time for the short letter at the end.

Points and result

There are 60 points in all, 15 each for listening, reading, writing and speaking:

From 36 points you have passed. The exam is always taken and retaken as a whole.

Schreiben

First you fill in a form with five details. Then you write a short letter: from four points you choose three and write one or two sentences on each, about 40 words in all, with a greeting and a sign-off. Each content point earns up to 3 points, the right form one more. The choice is an advantage: take the three points you have most to say about.

Hören and Sprechen

• Hören: in Teil 1 you complete telephone notes — you write the answers yourself instead of ticking boxes; you hear this part twice. Teil 2 (multiple choice) is played once, Teil 3 (matching) twice.
• Sprechen: you introduce yourself and answer two extra questions. Then you hold an everyday conversation with question cards, one of them a joker card for which you make up the question yourself. Finally you negotiate something, such as a time that suits you both.

What you need the certificate for

A2 confirms basic German for everyday life and simple work situations. Which exam a body accepts as proof is up to that body — check with them before you register.