German B1 – Lessons for Intermediate Learners

B1 is where German starts to feel free: you tell stories, give your opinion and write real letters. These lessons cover the grammar and exam skills you need.

telc B1 Speaking Part 3: Planning Something Together image
B1telc Exam · 17 min read

telc B1 Speaking Part 3: Planning Something Together

In Teil 3 of the telc B1 speaking exam you and your partner plan something together, like a party, a trip or a present, and agree on one plan. Learn a simple four-step strategy, typical exam topics, and the key German phrases for making suggestions, agreeing, disagreeing politely and dividing tasks.

telc B1 Speaking Part 2: How to Talk About a Topic image
B1Speaking · 10 min read

telc B1 Speaking Part 2: How to Talk About a Topic

In Teil 2 of the telc B1 speaking exam you present a short text, say what the person in it thinks and talk about the topic with your partner. Learn a simple plan for your turn, how to report an opinion with dass, and the key German phrases for giving your opinion, sharing experiences and asking questions.

telc B1 Speaking Part 1: Getting to Know Each Other image
B1Speaking · 15 min read

telc B1 Speaking Part 1: Getting to Know Each Other

Prepare for telc B1 Speaking Part 1 (Sprechen Teil 1: Einander kennenlernen) with this complete guide. Learn the seven topics, common speaking questions, useful vocabulary, sample answers, exam phrases and a full sample dialogue to help you communicate confidently in the oral exam.

Plusquamperfekt in German: The Complete Guide image
B1Grammar · 8 min read

Plusquamperfekt in German: The Complete Guide

The Plusquamperfekt is the German tense used to describe an action that happened before another past event - often called the "earlier past". In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to form and use it, how it compares to Perfekt and Präteritum. You’ll also discover when native speakers actually use it.

How to Write a German Valentine's Day Card image
B1Vocabulary · 7 min read

How to Write a German Valentine's Day Card

Want to surprise someone special with a Valentine’s Day card in German? In this guide you’ll learn romantic German phrases, useful love vocabulary and how to structure message in your card – from sweet and simple to deeply meaningful. You’ll also discover famous German love quotes for inspiration.

Our B1 articles include:

  • Grammar: Präteritum, Konjunktiv II, relative clauses and the genitive
  • Phrases for telling stories and giving your opinion
  • Formal and informal letters
  • Speaking and writing tips for the B1 exam

Practise with the B1 exercises and the B1 word list, or read the telc B1 exam preparation guide.