Achieving an A* in IGCSE German (Cambridge & Edexcel Boards)

With the right strategies and support, achieving an A*  in IGCSE German is within your reach.

Achieving an A* in IGCSE German is the ultimate goal for many students – and with dedication, smart preparation, and the right support, it’s absolutely attainable. In this friendly guide, we’ll explain exactly what the IGCSE German qualification involves and what an A* (or Grade 9 in the 9–1 grading system) really means. Both Cambridge and Edexcel exam boards offer IGCSE German, and while their exam formats differ slightly, they both assess the four key language skills: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. We’ll break down each exam component (highlighting any differences between Cambridge and Edexcel), and provide paper-by-paper strategies to help you excel in each area. You’ll also find examples of typical exam questions, top tips for effective language learning (vocabulary revision, past papers, grammar practice, etc.), and advice on avoiding common mistakes.

Throughout the guide, we’ll show you how Olesen Tuition’s expert guidance – through weekly classes, one-to-one IGCSE German tutoring, and intensive revision courses – can support you on the path to an A*. With over 25 years of teaching experience and a 95% success rate at A*, our Oxford-educated tutor has helped countless students reach top grades, and you can be next. Let’s get started on the journey to A* success in IGCSE German!

Overview: What Does an A* in IGCSE German Require?

The IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) in German is a globally recognised qualification for 14–16 year-olds, equivalent to GCSE German in the UK. Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) and Pearson Edexcel are the two main boards offering IGCSE German. An A* (or Grade 9 in boards that use the 9–1 grading scale) represents the very top tier of achievement – only a small percentage of candidates attain this level. In practical terms, earning an A* means demonstrating near-fluent command of German, especially in writing and speaking, with sophisticated vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and accurate use of complex grammar. It’s not easy – A* students must excel across all four skills and show consistency and excellence in understanding and communicating in German.

So what does it take to get there? In simple terms: thorough preparation, plenty of practice, and a strategic approach. Top-grade candidates typically have a strong grasp of grammar fundamentals, a broad vocabulary base, and the ability to understand fast spoken German and unfamiliar texts. They can write and speak in German with clarity and creativity, using a variety of tenses and structures. Crucially, they also know how to approach the exams smartly – they understand the exam format, manage their time well, and know what examiners are looking for in A* responses. In the sections below, we’ll explain the exam format for both Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSE German, then dive into detailed strategies for each paper. Remember, every student can improve and aim high: as long as you’re willing to put in consistent effort and learn from mistakes, an A* is within reach. And if you need extra help, Olesen Tuition is here to guide you with specialist IGCSE German support every step of the way.

Exam Components Explained: Cambridge vs. Edexcel IGCSE German

Both Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSE German courses cover similar content (everyday topics like family, school, hobbies, holidays, the world around us, etc.) and ultimately assess your abilities in listening, reading, speaking, and writing in German. However, the format and structure of the exam papers differ slightly between the two exam boards:

• Cambridge IGCSE German (0525 or 7159) – You will sit four papers, one for each skill. Each paper contributes 25% of your final grade:

  • Paper 1: Listening (about 45–50 minutes, including reading time). You’ll listen to recorded German material and answer questions (often multiple-choice or matching). This paper is externally assessed.

  • Paper 2: Reading (1 hour). You’ll read a series of texts (short notices, advertisements, emails, articles, etc.) and answer questions to demonstrate comprehension. Questions include multiple-choice, matching, and short-answer responses in German or English. Externally assessed.

  • Paper 3: Speaking (approximately 10 minutes, plus preparation time). This is an oral exam conducted by a teacher/examiner and internally assessed (then externally moderated). It includes one role-play and two conversation topics (e.g. one topic from personal/social area, one from school/work, etc.). You will be asked to respond to prompts and engage in a dialogue, including some unexpected questions.

  • Paper 4: Writing (1 hour). You’ll produce three pieces of writing: typically a short form-filling task, a directed writing task of about 80–100 words (e.g. a note or email responding to given bullet points), and a longer composition of about 130 words (often a choice between writing an informal letter/email, an article or blog entry, etc.). This paper is externally assessed.

• Edexcel IGCSE German (4GN1) – The exam is structured into three components (two written papers and one oral exam):

  • Paper 1: Listening (30 minutes + 5 minutes reading time, 40 marks, 25% of the total grade). You will hear a range of recordings (announcements, conversations, interviews, etc.) and answer comprehension questions. The format includes multiple-choice, matching, note-taking, and gap-fill questions. The extra 5 minutes at the start is given to read through the questions before the audio begins – a great chance to anticipate what information you need to listen for.

  • Paper 2: Reading and Writing (1 hour 45 minutes, 80 marks total, 50% of the grade). This combined paper is longer, as it assesses two skills:

    • Section A: Reading – You’ll answer questions on several written texts. Question types include multiple-choice, extracting details for note-taking, gap-fills, and short answers. This tests your ability to understand gist and detail from written German.

    • Section B: Writing – You’ll tackle two writing tasks (open-ended prompts where you write a short and a longer response, e.g. a paragraph about a familiar topic and a longer essay/letter) and one grammar task, which typically involves transforming given verbs into the correct form in a short text. There is no separate translation task, but this section assesses your ability to communicate in writing with correct language.

  • Paper 3: Speaking (8–10 minutes, 40 marks, 25%). This is an internally conducted, externally assessed oral exam. It usually consists of a brief discussion based on a picture you choose (or another prompt) and general conversation covering at least two of the five topic areas (e.g. home and abroad, education and employment, etc.). There may not be a formal role-play as in Cambridge, but you will still need to respond spontaneously to questions and speak at length about familiar topics.

Key Differences: In summary, Cambridge separates the Reading and Writing into two distinct papers, whereas Edexcel combines them into one longer paper. Cambridge has a formal role-play task in speaking, while Edexcel’s speaking is structured around a photo and conversations. Both exams are untiered (no Foundation/Higher levels) – all students take the same papers and the A* is the top achievable grade (for Cambridge, A*; for Edexcel, that top level is graded 9, equivalent to A*). Each skill accounts for 25% of the total marks, so you can’t neglect any component. An A* candidate needs to perform strongly in all four areas, so it’s important to prepare for each paper thoroughly. Now that we know the exam format, let’s look at strategies to excel in each part of the exam.

Listening Paper Strategies: Training for Fast, Authentic Audio

What to expect: The Listening exam can feel challenging because spoken German on the recording can be fast and sometimes hard to catch. Both Cambridge and Edexcel will play each recording twice, and you’ll often answer questions like multiple choice, true/false, matching information, or filling in details. The content might include everyday scenarios (announcements, phone messages, conversations between friends, interviews, etc.), gradually increasing in difficulty. Edexcel gives a dedicated 5-minute reading time before the audio starts – use this wisely to preview the questions. Cambridge may not explicitly grant extra time, but you will usually have a brief moment to look at questions between tracks.

How to train your listening skills for A*:

• Listen to German regularly – make it part of your daily routine. The best way to get comfortable with fast, authentic German is exposure. Supplement past paper practice with fun listening: German songs, podcasts, YouTube videos, or TV shows. For instance, try listening to the news on Deutsche Welle (they even have a slow German news podcast for learners) or watch a German TV series with subtitles. The more you hear the language, the more your ear will attune to common words and the overall rhythm of German speech. This will make the exam recordings feel less daunting over time.

• Use the reading time (and any pauses) effectively. Before the recording plays, skim through all the questions and answer options. Identify keywords or specific information you need (e.g. if a question asks “What time does the train arrive?”, note that you must listen for a time). Predict the context: if the section is about, say, school subjects, remind yourself of subject names in German. By having an idea of what you’re listening for, you’ll find it easier to catch the answers when they come up. Jot down a brief note or underline key question words – for example, if you see “Warum?”, you know you’re listening for a reason (because…).

• Develop note-taking techniques that work for you. While you listen, it can help to scribble down quick notes or keywords – especially numbers, dates, or names. For example, if the speaker mentions “am 4. April um 17 Uhr”, and you suspect a question will ask “When…?”, jot down “4 Apr, 5pm”. Be careful not to get so absorbed in writing that you miss the next part of the recording. Use abbreviations or symbols you can quickly interpret. Even in multiple-choice questions, noting a key detail you heard can confirm the correct choice. If a gap-fill question expects one or two words in German, write down exactly what you hear (watch spelling later). Remember, you will hear everything twice, so on the first listen, focus on comprehension and get the gist; on the second listen, confirm details and fill gaps.

• Practice with past papers under timed conditions. There is no substitute for practising past listening exams from your specific board. This helps you get used to the style and speed of recordings. As you practice, simulate exam conditions: give yourself the proper reading time, play the audio once through (without pausing or rewinding), and try to answer in real-time. Afterwards, check the mark scheme to see how you did. Note which questions you missed – was it a vocab issue, or did you get distracted? Use those insights to adjust your technique next time (e.g. improve that vocabulary, or practice focusing even if you miss a bit).

• Train for understanding the gist as well as details. Some questions might ask for overall understanding (e.g. the general opinion of a speaker) rather than a specific fact. So while listening, always identify the context (Who is speaking? Where are they? Happy or upset?) and the main point. Being able to catch the general meaning will help you answer broader questions and not get lost even if you miss one word.

• Stay calm and don’t panic if you miss something. This is vital: if you didn’t catch an answer on the first play, don’t give up or start panicking. Keep listening, because the next question’s answer might be coming. You’ll get a second chance to hear it all again. It’s easy to freeze up after missing a bit, but A* listeners recover quickly – they make an educated guess and move on, listening attentively for the rest. If by the end of the second listen you’re still unsure about a question, take a reasonable guess (never leave it blank – you might get it right!). Maintain your concentration through the whole paper, even if one part was tricky.

• Familiarise yourself with common listening vocabulary. Certain words and phrases are very common in listening exams – for example, numbers (prices, times, dates), travel schedules, weather terms, school subjects, daily routine verbs, etc. Make sure you’re confident with numbers in German (could you understand “dreihundertfünfundzwanzig” quickly? That’s 325!), and things like telling the time (“Viertel nach vier” = 4:15). If you find listening to past papers that you struggled with, note down any words that threw you off and revise them.

By consistently training your ear and using smart techniques during the exam, you’ll be well on your way to acing the listening paper. Many of our students in Olesen Tuition’s weekly IGCSE German classes report that regular exposure to spoken German in class (plus the listening practice we provide) makes a huge difference in their confidence. With practice, you’ll find yourself understanding more and stressing less!

Reading Paper Strategies: Skimming, Scanning, and Building Vocabulary

What to expect: The Reading exam presents you with a variety of texts in German – these might include short notices or signs, emails or letters, magazine articles, dialogues, or advertisements. The tasks typically range from simple comprehension (like matching sentences to pictures or choosing the correct multiple-choice response) to more involved tasks (like answering questions in English or German, or perhaps completing a form or notes based on a text). Cambridge’s Paper 2 (Reading) is a separate 1-hour exam, while Edexcel’s Paper 2 combines reading and writing (so you’ll need to allocate roughly half the 1h45 to the reading section). In both cases, understanding the written German and retrieving the right information is key. Here’s how to sharpen your reading skills for top marks:

• Use skimming and scanning techniques. Skimming means reading a text quickly to grasp the general idea. Start each text by skimming it – read the title (if given) and the first lines of each section, and glance through to pick up the topic. This gives you context. Next, use scanning for specific information required by the questions. Scanning is when you look through the text for a particular detail or keyword (e.g. a name, a place, a date, a specific word from the question). For instance, if a question asks, “Why did the author go to Berlin?”, you might scan for the word “Berlin” in the text, then read around that sentence to find the reason. Mastering skimming and scanning helps you handle lengthy texts efficiently under time pressure.

• Pay attention to question words and phrasing. In both German and English questions, understanding exactly what is being asked is crucial. Look out for question words: “Wer?” (Who?), “Was?” (What?), “Wann?” (When?), “Wo?” (Where?), “Warum?” (Why?), “Wie?” (How?), “Wie viele?” (How many/much?), etc. These guide you to the type of answer neededtutorsplus.com. Also note if the question says “in your own words” or allows quotes – usually, for comprehension, you can lift a detail from the text, but for higher marks you might need to phrase the idea correctly in English (or in German) without adding extraneous info. If a question is in English, answer in English (even though the text is German). If it’s in German, keep your answer in German and relevant – don’t copy whole sentences if a short phrase answers it.

• Build up your German vocabulary – especially synonyms and common phrases. Reading comprehension is much easier when you know lots of words! Regular vocabulary revision is essential. Use flashcards or apps (like Quizlet or Memrise) to memorise new words you encounter. Pay special attention to synonyms and rephrasings: examiners often test if you understand an idea expressed in a different way. For example, the text might say “Er fühlt sich nicht wohl” and the question asks “Wie geht es ihm?” – you need to realise “fühlt sich nicht wohl” means he’s unwell. To get an A*, aim to know all the vocab listed in the syllabus (both Cambridge and Edexcel provide vocabulary lists of expected words). Expand beyond that by reading German outside of class: short stories, news articles for young readers, or even bilingual books. The more you read, the more words you’ll recognize quickly during the exam.

• Practice reading past exam texts and inferencing. Sometimes you’ll face a tricky text with a few words you haven’t seen before – A* candidates won’t panic, they’ll use context to infer meaning. Practice this skill: when reading a practice text, if a word is unfamiliar, look at the sentence as a whole and the sentences around it. Oftentimes, other clues in the text explain that word. For example, “Die Wohnung war winzig, aber gemütlich.” Even if you don’t know winzig, the contrast “but cozy” suggests it means very small. Past papers are great for this because they often include one or two harder words that aren’t in the core vocab list, just to see if you can deduce meaning. After attempting a past paper, check those unknown words in a dictionary and add them to your revision list.

• Answer strategically and check your responses. For multiple-choice questions, eliminate the obviously wrong answers first; if torn between two, revisit the text to find evidence for each and choose the best match. For short answers in German, keep them concise – often a few words will do. You usually don’t need to write full sentences; for example, if the question is “Wo wohnt der Junge?” (Where does the boy live?) you could answer “In München,” and that’s sufficient. Don’t add information that wasn’t asked – stick to answering exactly the question given. After completing the reading section, if time permits, re-read your answers and the text snippets to verify. Did you address the right detail? Did you answer in the correct language? This review can catch misinterpretations (perhaps you answered “he” when the question asked “she,” etc.) and ensure you haven’t misunderstood a tricky negation (e.g. “nicht” or “kein” in the text flipping the meaning).

• Watch out for false friends and tricky phrasing. German has some words that look like English but mean something different (e.g. “bekommen” means to receive, not to become). Examiners love to include these to see if you really know the word. Also, pay attention to negatives (e.g. “weder… noch…” means neither… nor…) and comparative phrases (if a text says “X ist nicht so groß wie Y,” it means X is smaller than Y, effectively). Understanding these nuances ensures you don’t get the wrong end of the stick. If something seems confusing, break the sentence down, or even translate it on scrap paper to be sure you get the meaning.

Ultimately, success in reading comes from a mix of good exam technique and a strong vocabulary foundation. Make reading practice enjoyable: read about topics you like (sports, music, gaming) in German – it could be online articles or even German Wikipedia pages on your hobby. This not only builds your vocabulary, but also your speed in reading German. Top students often read beyond just textbook extracts, so that by exam time, they can tackle unseen texts more comfortably. And remember, if you find reading challenging, Olesen Tuition’s tutors can help by providing guided practice: we work through texts with students, teach strategies like those above, and help turn reading from a fear into a strength.

Speaking Exam: Preparing Answers While Staying Spontaneous

What to expect: The Speaking exam is often the part students find most nerve-wracking – but it can also be the most rewarding, as it’s your chance to show off your spoken German and personality. In Cambridge IGCSE German, the format includes one role-play (where you act out a scenario using prompts) and two conversation topics (usually one topic area chosen by you in advance and one by the examiner). In Edexcel IGCSE German, the format typically consists of a discussion based on a picture stimulus (chosen by you ahead of time) followed by a general conversation covering two topics. In both cases, the exam lasts about 8–10 minutes of speaking. You will be assessed on communication, fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar range, and how well you respond (including the ability to handle unexpected questions or ask for clarification). Here’s how to maximise your performance in speaking:

• Predict and prepare common questions – but don’t memorise long monologues. It’s very useful to prepare material on the predictable topics. For instance, nearly every student will talk about themselves, family, school, free time, holidays, future plans, etc. You can bet on certain common questions like “Was machst du gern in deiner Freizeit?” (What do you like doing in your free time?), “Beschreib deine Schule” (Describe your school), or “Wohin bist du letzten Sommer gefahren?” (Where did you go last summer?). Write out answers to these in German, incorporating high-quality phrases: opinions (“Ich bin der Meinung, dass…”), justifications (“…, weil…”), and a variety of tenses (past experiences, current activities, future plans). Practice saying them until you’re comfortable. However, avoid memorising them word-for-word as a script. Examiners can tell if an answer is pre-memorised, and you risk blanking out if they ask something slightly different. Instead, memorise key vocabulary and flexible phrases for each topic, so you can adapt on the fly. For example, know how to say your subjects and some descriptive adjectives about them, a few past activities and future plans. Think of it like having bullet points in your head rather than a full essay.

• Practice speaking spontaneously. Beyond your prepared material, you need to be ready for those surprise questions or follow-ups. A great way to practice is to have a friend, parent, or tutor quiz you in random order on any topic. For example, after you give a prepared answer about your hobbies, the “examiner” might ask an unplanned question: “Warum ist das dein Hobby?” (Why is that your hobby?) or “Was hast du gestern nach der Schule gemacht?” (What did you do yesterday after school?). This mimics the real exam, where the teacher will pick up on something you said and ask more. Get comfortable with improvising answers using the vocabulary you know. It’s fine if you need a moment to think – learn some filler phrases to buy time, like “Hm, lass mich kurz überlegen…” (Let me think for a moment) or “Das ist eine interessante Frage.” (That’s an interesting question.) These are lifesavers when you need a second to formulate your thoughts and show the examiner you’re still engaged.

• Focus on fluency and pronunciation. You don’t need a perfect native accent to get an A*, but your pronunciation should be clear and easily understood by a German speaker. Pay attention to tricky sounds: “ch” (after i/e as in ich vs. after a/o/u as in auch), “ü” (üben), “ö” (Öl), “r” (try to do the softer German ‘r’ in throat, but clarity is more important than an exact accent). If certain words always trip you up, practice them slowly and listen to native audio (for example, many online dictionaries let you hear pronunciation). Fluency means speaking at a conversational pace without long unnatural pauses, and linking your ideas. Even if you make a small mistake, keep going – self-correct if needed, but don’t let it derail you. It actually impresses examiners if you can correct yourself smoothly (e.g. “Gestern habe ich gegeht... gegangen bin ich ins Kino.” – fixing the verb form). To build fluency, speak German as much as possible in class and with study partners. Consider joining a conversation group or using online platforms to chat with native speakers. The more you use German, the more second-nature it becomes.

• Give detailed, well-rounded answers. Aim to expand your answers to show off your language range. For instance, if asked “Magst du Sport?” (Do you like sports?), instead of just “Ja, ich mag Sport,” try something like: “Ja, sehr! Ich spiele zweimal pro Woche Tennis, weil es mich fit hält und mir Spaß macht. Außerdem schaue ich gern Fußball im Fernsehen.” In those two sentences, you’ve given a frequency, specified a sport, used a reason with weil, and added an extra detail – all of which demonstrate higher ability than a one-word answer. A good rule: always add a “weil…” (because ...) or “denn…” in your answer to give a reason/opinion, and where appropriate, link another piece of information with “außerdem” (moreover) or “aber” (but) to show complexity. That said, ensure your answer remains on topic. If the examiner interjects or moves on, don’t keep monologuing – it’s a conversation, not a speech. But if they ask an open question like “Erzähl mir von deinen letzten Ferien” (Tell me about your last holiday), take that opportunity to really develop your answer across several sentences (destination, activities, opinion, etc.).

• Use strategies for the role-play or picture-based task. In Cambridge’s role-play, you will get a prompt card (with bullet points in English telling you what information to convey or ask). Prepare for this by practising common situational dialogues: e.g. at a restaurant, booking a hotel, talking to a host family, etc. Learn how to politely ask questions (many role-plays require the student to ask something – know how to invert verb and subject, e.g. “Wann beginnt…?” for “When does ... begin?”). Also be ready for the unexpected element: the prompt might include a “?” which means the examiner will ask you an unprepared question – don’t panic, just apply relevant vocab. For Edexcel’s picture-based discussion, practice describing an image: start with a simple sentence on what is visible (“Auf dem Foto sehe ich…”), mention people, place, weather, etc., then be ready for follow-ups like opinions or hypothetical questions about the scene (“Was machen die Leute wohl später?” – what might the people do later?). Pro-tip: if you’re nervous, have a smile and take a deep breath before you start speaking about the picture – a confident start can set a positive tone.

• Handle breakdowns in communication gracefully. If you don’t understand a question during the exam, it is okay to ask for clarification. In fact, it’s better to ask than to answer incorrectly off guesswork. Use phrases like “Könnten Sie die Frage bitte wiederholen?” (Could you please repeat the question?) or “Wie bitte?” (Pardon?) if you missed a word. If you still don’t get a particular word, you can say “Ich habe nicht verstanden, was [word] bedeutet.” This shows the examiner that you’re actively trying to communicate – which is a communication skill in itself. Also, if you realise you used the wrong word or tense, you can say “Ich meine…” (I mean…) and correct yourself. Don’t be afraid of small pauses to think; it’s completely natural. Composure and the ability to navigate confusion are hallmarks of a strong candidate.

Finally, the best way to become confident in speaking is practice, practice, practice. Try to speak German regularly – whether it’s answering past oral exam questions, talking to classmates in German, or reading your textbook answers aloud. Olesen Tuition offers mock speaking exams and one-to-one speaking practice sessions where you can get used to the format and get personalised feedback on your performance (fluency, pronunciation, content, etc.). Our students often say that by the time the real exam comes, it feels like “just another practice” because they’ve done it so many times in tutoring sessions. With preparation and the right mindset, you can walk into your speaking exam feeling calm, prepared, and ready to shine. Viel Erfolg! (Good luck!)

Writing Paper: Structuring Answers & Using Complex Language

What to expect: The Writing exam challenges you to produce German text of your own – demonstrating not only accuracy in grammar and spelling, but also creativity and range. In Cambridge IGCSE, you’ll typically do three tasks: a short form-filling or message, a medium-length directed writing (~60-80 words), and a longer piece (~130 words) such as an email, letter, or articlehe. In Edexcel IGCSE, you’ll have two writing tasks (short and long) plus a short grammar exercise (like conjugating verbs) in the combined Paper 2. There is usually some choice for the longer task (e.g. choose 1 of 3 topics). To get an A*, you need to meet the task requirements fully and showcase a rich vocabulary and advanced grammar, with minimal mistakes. Here’s how to excel in the writing paper:

• Plan and structure your response before you write. It’s tempting to dive right into writing, but a few minutes of planning can make a huge difference to your answer’s quality and coherence. Start by reading the question carefully – identify all parts of the prompt or bullet points you must cover. For example, a prompt might say (in English or German): “Write about a recent visit to a city. Mention: where you went, who you travelled with, what you did there, and what you liked or disliked about the city.” Underline these four tasks. In your plan, jot down a couple of German words next to each bullet (e.g. “Berlin – mit meiner Familie – Museumsinsel, Brandenburger Tor – Essen lecker, aber Wetter schlecht”). This ensures you won’t forget any part. Decide on a logical order – usually chronological or in the order of the bullet points. For longer tasks, consider paragraphing: e.g., one paragraph per bullet or a natural grouping of ideas (introduction, body, conclusion). A clear structure (with maybe a linking phrase like “Zum Schluss,” for “In conclusion,” if it’s an essay) will make your writing more organised and impress examiners.

• Use a wide range of tenses and sentence structures. One of the key criteria for top marks is using variety in grammar. Examiners specifically look for at least 3 different tenses in your writing (typically past, present, future) because it shows you can narrate events in different time frames. So make sure to include something about the past (e.g. “Letztes Jahr habe ich…”), something about the present/general (e.g. “Normalerweise gehe ich…”), and something about the future or conditional (e.g. “Nächstes Jahr werde ich…” or “Ich würde gern…”). Even if the prompt is set in one time frame, find a way to add another – for instance, if writing about a past holiday, you can add “Wir planen, nächstes Jahr wieder hinzufahren.” (We plan to go again next year). Complex sentences are also important. This doesn’t mean overly long, confusing sentences, but rather using subordinate clauses, relative clauses, or participles to add depth. Examples: “…, weil es so viel zu tun gibt.”, or “Die Stadt, die ich besucht habe, war sehr lebendig.” Even starting a sentence with a time phrase or adverb and inverting word order counts as complexity (e.g. “Am meisten hat mir das Essen gefallen.”). Aim to sprinkle in a few sentences with “weil,” “obwohl,” “als” (for past) or “wenn” (for when/if) – just remember the verb goes to the end in those subordinate clauses! Using at least one relative clause (with der/die/das meaning that/which) can also boost your level, e.g. “Das Beste, was ich dort gesehen habe, war das Museum.”

• Incorporate opinions and justifications. Just like in speaking, top writing answers usually include personal opinions with reasons. Examiners want to see you can express thoughts and not just factual statements. So use phrases like “Meiner Meinung nach…” (in my opinion), “Ich finde, dass…” (I find that…), “Es gefällt mir, … zu …” (I enjoy ...). And importantly, follow up with warum – a because. For instance, don’t just say “Die Stadt war schön.” – enhance it: “Die Stadt war schön, weil die Architektur beeindruckend ist und überall Blumen waren.” If the task asks for advantages/disadvantages or what you liked/disliked, definitely articulate at least one thing you liked and one you didn’t, each with a justification. This not only fulfils the task but also shows the examiner you can discuss pros and cons (a higher-order skill). Even for narrative tasks, you can insert opinions: “Wir haben eine Wanderung gemacht, was mir sehr gut gefallen hat, weil die Aussicht toll war.”

• Mind the word count, but don’t obsess over it. Each task will usually give a suggested word count (e.g. “about 80 words” or “150 words maximum”). It’s important to stay within the limit or at least not go wildly over it. Writing significantly less than suggested means you probably haven’t developed your answer enough (risking missing content points). Writing far more can be counterproductive – examiners stop reading after a certain point (especially if they state a max) or you might be including irrelevant info that doesn’t score marks. During practice, get a feel for how much you can write given the time and word count. If you find you write too much, practice being more concise by focusing only on what’s asked. If you write too little, work on adding descriptions or opinions. As a rule of thumb, ±10% of the word count is usually fine. In the exam, don’t waste time counting words; instead, roughly estimate (know how many words you typically fit on a line with your handwriting). Plan such that you have enough content to meet the requirement, and then stick to that plan.

• Check your work for common errors. Leave at least 5 minutes at the end to proofread everything you’ve written. Even strong candidates make small mistakes under pressure – the difference is that A* candidates catch and correct them. Look out for verb endings (does your verb match the subject? er fährt, wir fahren), tenses (did you accidentally slip into present when it should be past?), and word order (the infamous verb-to-end rule after weil, dass, etc., and verb-second in normal sentences). Check agreement, especially after ein or mein – for example, if you wrote “mein Bruder” versus “meine Schwester”, or “Ich habe einen Bruder” (accusative masculine). Ensure all nouns are capitalised – Schule, Wochenende, Freund (easy marks to lose if not). Spelling matters too, particularly with very similar words (e.g. seid vs seit, das vs dass). One strategy is to read your piece aloud in a whisper to yourself (if allowed quietly) or at least in your head – your ear might catch something that looks off. When checking longer sentences, identify the verb and make sure it’s in the correct position.

• Aim for sophisticated vocabulary, but only use words/phrases you’re comfortable with. Using some higher-level vocab can impress examiners – for example, instead of always saying “gut”, maybe use “ausgezeichnet” (excellent) where appropriate; instead of “sehr interessant”, perhaps “faszinierend”. Idiomatic phrases can also make an impact (like “ich habe die Nase voll von…” to say “I’m fed up with…” or “es ist nicht mein Ding” for “it’s not my thing”). However, be cautious: only use idioms or fancy words if you’re sure you know how to use them correctly. It’s better to write a clear, correct sentence with simple language than a flawed sentence with a misused complex phrase. So by all means, enrich your language, but always proofread those “wow” phrases to ensure they make sense in context. One or two well-placed idiomatic expressions in the whole essay can be enough to catch the examiner’s eye for an A* – quality over quantity.

• Practice writing under timed conditions and seek feedback. Writing is a skill that improves with practice. Do plenty of practice questions from past papers or revision guides. Initially, you might draft without time limits to focus on quality. But as the exam nears, practice writing the full paper (all tasks) in the allotted time to build speed and stamina. After writing, get feedback – from your teacher or a tutor – on how you did. They can mark your piece, pointing out errors and, importantly, whether you addressed all bullet points and how to improve your content. Take note of recurring mistakes (maybe you always forget the verb at end with weil, or make word gender slips) and work on fixing those specifically. If you’re preparing with Olesen Tuition, we provide detailed corrections and suggestions on practice writings, showing you how to turn a “good” response into an A* response – for example, by tweaking sentence structure or adding a bit more detail.

By mastering these writing strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any essay or task the exam throws at you. Remember, top-notch writing in German isn’t about never making a mistake – it’s about showing you can communicate richly and clearly despite the occasional minor error. If the examiner is reading your essay thinking, “I’m getting a lot of information, nicely organised, with varied language – and I’m impressed this sounds like something a native teen might write,” you’re on the right track for an A*!

Typical Exam Questions: Examples for Each Paper

It helps to see some examples of typical questions you might encounter in IGCSE German, so you know what to expect. Here are a few illustrative examples for each component (note: these are mock examples in style; in the real exam, content will vary):

• Listening Example: You might hear a short dialogue like: “Zwei Freunde planen ihr Wochenende. Sie diskutieren das Wetter und was sie unternehmen wollen.” Question: “Wohin wollen die Freunde am Sonntag gehen?” (Where do the friends want to go on Sunday?) – and you could have multiple-choice options (A. ins Kino, B. ins Schwimmbad, C. in den Park). To answer this, you’d listen for a phrase in the audio such as “Sonntag sollen es 30 Grad werden; ich denke, wir könnten ins Schwimmbad gehen.” The correct answer would be B, ins Schwimmbad. Another listening task might involve completing notes: e.g. you have a notepad with “Treffen am Bahnhof um ___ Uhr”, and you fill in the time mentioned by the speaker (e.g. “16:30”). Practice with similar questions ensures you’re ready to catch these details.

• Reading Example: You might see a short text like an email from a German exchange partner:„Hallo! Ich erzähle dir von meinem Wochenende. Am Samstag bin ich mit meinen Eltern aufs Land gefahren, um meine Großeltern zu besuchen. Es war toll, weil ich meine Cousins auch gesehen habe. Sonntag musste ich viele Hausaufgaben machen – nicht so spannend! Nächstes Wochenende werde ich wahrscheinlich mit Freunden ins Kino gehen.“

  Typical questions:

  • “Wen hat sie am Samstag besucht?” – Answer: ihre Großeltern (her grandparents).

  • “Was hat sie am Sonntag gemacht?” – Answer: Hausaufgaben (homework).

  • “Was plant sie für nächstes Wochenende?” – Answer (in English or German as required): She plans to go to the cinema with friends.

  Another reading task might be matching statements to people based on a text, or deciding if statements are true/false/not mentioned. For instance, a text about three students’ hobbies and a question like “Which student likes sports?” where you match to the right name. Being familiar with such formats will help you answer swiftly and accurately.

• Speaking Example: For Cambridge’s role-play, a sample scenario might be: “You are at a Tourist Information Office in Germany. You want to find a good restaurant. Task: Greet the officer, say you are looking for a restaurant, ask for a recommendation, respond to one follow-up question about your food preference, and thank them.” In the exam, you’d get bullet points like: “Greeting”, “Say what you need”, “Ask: recommendation for …”, “Preference: vegetarian (when asked)”, “Closing thanks”. You would then act this out with the examiner. For the conversation section, a typical question could be: “Erzähl mir etwas über deine Schule.” (Tell me about your school.) You should respond with a few sentences covering, e.g., what your school is like, subjects you enjoy, maybe something about teachers or facilities, and an opinion. If the examiner then asks “Was würdest du an deiner Schule ändern, wenn du könntest?” (What would you change about your school if you could?), you should be ready to answer something like: “Wenn ich Direktor wäre, würde ich den Schultag kürzer machen, weil wir oft sehr müde sind.” This follow-up tests your ability to handle a hypothetical (note the conditional tense würde). Tip: It’s good to have a couple of realistic imaginative answers for questions like that in your back pocket.

• Writing Example: A typical short task might be: “You’re writing a postcard to your German friend from your holiday in Spain. In 30-40 words of German, mention 2 things you have done, and say how you find the holiday.” A good response might be: “Liebe Anna, Spanien ist wunderbar! Ich war schon am Strand und habe im Meer geschwommen. Gestern habe ich Tapas probiert – sehr lecker. Mir gefällt der Urlaub sehr, weil das Wetter toll ist. Viele Grüße!” This covers two activities (beach swim, tried tapas) and an opinion (I’m really enjoying it + reason).

  For a longer task, an example could be:“Schreibe einen Aufsatz (120-150 Wörter) über Gesunde Lebensweise. Du sollst erwähnen: (Write an essay about healthy lifestyle. You should mention:)

  1. was du letzte Woche gemacht hast, um fit und gesund zu bleiben, (what you did last week to stay fit and healthy)

  2. welches Essen und Trinken du gesund findest (und warum), (which food and drink you find healthy and why)

  3. welche ungesunde Gewohnheiten manche Jugendliche haben, (which unhealthy habits some young people have)

  4. was du in der Zukunft machen wirst, um noch gesünder zu leben.” (what you will do in the future to live even more healthily)

  In your answer, you’d need to address each bullet in turn. For instance:

  • Last week: “Ich bin dreimal joggen gegangen und habe nur Wasser statt Cola getrunken.” (past tense)

  • Healthy foods: “Obst und Gemüse sind für mich am gesündesten, weil sie viele Vitamine haben. Ich esse jeden Tag einen Apfel.” (opinion + reason)

  • Unhealthy habits: “Leider rauchen manche Jugendliche oder verbringen zu viel Zeit vor dem Bildschirm und bewegen sich nicht genug.”

  • Future: “In der Zukunft habe ich vor, einem Sportverein beizutreten. Außerdem werde ich versuchen, regelmäßig acht Stunden zu schlafen.” (future tense)

  This answer uses a range of tenses and gives opinions with reasons, which is exactly what an A* answer would do. Practicing writing plans and paragraphs for prompts like these will prepare you well for the real exam.

These examples are just a snapshot – the real exam content will vary, but the style of questions will be along these lines. Make sure to practice with official specimen or past questions from both Cambridge and Edexcel so you’re familiar with how they ask things. The more comfortable you are with the question formats, the more confidently you can approach them on exam day.

Top Tips for German Language Learning Success

Getting an A* in IGCSE German isn’t just about hard work – it’s about smart work and building effective language habits. Whether you’re just starting your course or in the final stretch of revision, here are some top tips to boost your learning:

• 1. Revise Vocabulary Regularly: German has a lot of vocabulary to master, and consistent revision is key to keeping words fresh in your mind. Don’t try to cram hundreds of words at once. Instead, review a bit of vocab daily. Use flashcards (physical or apps) to test yourself on German–English meanings and vice versa. Group words by theme (e.g. Travel, Education, Food) as the IGCSE syllabus often does, and make sure you know the basics and some advanced words for each theme. Revisit difficult words frequently using spaced repetition (many apps do this automatically). Also, learn words in context: when you note a new word, note an example sentence. For instance, “entdecken – to discover; Wissenschaftler haben ein neues Planetensystem entdeckt.” This helps you remember usage and not just an isolated translation. Regular short vocab sessions (5-10 minutes a day) can be more effective than long sessions once a week. By exam time, you’ll have a broad vocabulary at your fingertips, helping all four skills.

• 2. Practise Past Papers and Timed Exercises: There’s no better preparation than doing exam-style tasks under exam conditions. Set aside time each week to attempt a listening, reading, or writing task from a past paper or revision book. Simulate the test environment – timed, quiet, no interruptions – so you train your brain to perform under pressure. After completing a paper, mark it using the official mark scheme. Be honest with yourself about where you lost marks and why. Did you misunderstand a question? Was it a vocab gap? A grammar mistake? Use those insights to guide your next study focus (e.g. if you consistently slip up on past tense verbs, spend time reviewing those forms). For speaking, practice with a teacher or friend; if possible, record yourself answering a range of questions for ~10 minutes and critically evaluate your performance or have someone experienced give feedback. The more familiar the exam feels, the less scary it becomes. You’ll also get a sense of how to manage your time (for example, in Edexcel’s combined Reading/Writing, you might decide to spend ~50 minutes on reading and ~55 on writing). Olesen Tuition provides many past paper practice opportunities in our classes and one-to-one sessions, ensuring students are thoroughly prepared for the exam style of their specific board.

• 3. Consolidate Grammar Fundamentals: Grammar is the framework that holds your German together – and examiners do pay attention to how correctly you can use it, especially for top grades. Make sure you have a solid grasp of key grammar points: verb conjugations in present, past (both Perfekt and Imperfekt for common verbs), future, conditional; noun genders and plurals; cases (nominative/accusative/dative and when to use them – e.g. after certain prepositions or with direct/indirect objects); adjective endings; word order rules (verb-second in statements, verb-first in questions, verb-last in subordinate clauses). It may sound like a lot, but you’ve likely covered these progressively in class. It’s worth making a grammar checklist of topics and doing a quick review of each. There are plenty of grammar exercise books and online resources – even short YouTube tutorials – that can clarify tricky points. When you make mistakes (in practice papers or homework), take the time to understand why it’s wrong and how to fix it. For example, if you wrote “weil ich mag Fussball” and it was corrected to “weil ich Fussball mag”, note that rule: verb goes to end after "weil". Some students find it helpful to create their own “common mistakes” notebook: write down errors you’ve made with the correction and an explanation. Reviewing this regularly can prevent you from making the same mistakes in the exam. And remember – if certain grammar points consistently confuse you, ask your teacher or tutor to explain again. Sometimes a different explanation or additional practice can make it click.

• 4. Use the Language Daily – in varied ways: The more you immerse yourself in German, the more natural it becomes. Try to incorporate a bit of German into your everyday life. For instance, change your phone’s language to German for a fun challenge (you’ll learn words like “Nachrichten” for messages, “Einstellungen” for settings!). Write a brief daily journal entry in German – even just a few sentences about what you did or how you feel; this practices writing and expressing personal ideas. If you enjoy creative stuff, label objects around your house in German with sticky notes (seeing “der Kühlschrank” on the fridge every day will drill it into memory). Speaking to yourself in German might feel silly, but describing what you’re doing (“Jetzt mache ich meine Hausaufgaben…”) can build fluency. Listening and reading for pleasure are also powerful: watch German YouTubers or Netflix shows (with subtitles), listen to German music (and maybe translate the lyrics as an exercise), follow a German Instagram account or TikTok that posts content you find interesting. You’ll pick up colloquial phrases and cultural insights alongside language. Variety keeps learning fresh and prevents burnout from only doing exam drills.

• 5. Work with a Tutor or Study Partner: Sometimes, having someone guide you can accelerate your progress significantly. A qualified German tutor – especially one experienced with IGCSE – can pinpoint your weaknesses and help turn them into strengthsolesentuition.co.ukolesentuition.co.uk. For example, if you consistently struggle with the speaking exam’s photo description, a tutor can practice several with you, give feedback on pronunciation and suggest improvements in your answers. At Olesen Tuition, we offer tailored one-to-one tuition and small group classes specifically for IGCSE German, making sure each student gets personal attention. A tutor can also teach you exam techniques (like how to effectively plan a 150-word essay or tackle a tricky listening question) and keep you accountable to a study scheduleolesentuition.co.ukolesentuition.co.uk. If a private tutor isn’t an option, consider a study buddy or group: practicing conversation together, marking each other’s writing, or simply motivating each other can help a lot. Just ensure your study partner is serious and stays on task – you want to be reinforcing good habits for each other. Another idea: attend revision workshops or intensive courses if they’re available (for instance, Olesen Tuition runs half-term and Easter revision courses where we review key content and do mock exams). These can provide a structured boost and expose you to insights you might not get studying alone.

In essence, successful language learning is about consistency and using every tool at your disposal. Keep the process enjoyable by celebrating small wins: understood a whole German song? Great! Improved your mock exam score by 10 points? Fantastic. Confidence builds over time, and by exam day you’ll be ready to show off everything you’ve learned.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Improve Them)

Even high-achieving students stumble on certain common mistakes in IGCSE German. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid them and boost your accuracy. Here are some frequent errors – and tips on how to fix or avoid them:

• Word Order Wobbles: German word order can be tricky for English speakers. A typical mistake is forgetting to send the verb to the end in subordinate clauses. For example, students might write “Ich glaube, dass es ist wichtig.” instead of “Ich glaube, dass es wichtig ist.”. Or say “weil ich mag Fußball” instead of “weil ich Fußball mag.” Always remember: in any clause starting with dass, weil, obwohl, wenn, etc., the conjugated verb must come at the very end. Another one: not putting the verb second in a normal main clause. If you start a sentence with a time phrase or something other than the subject, e.g. “Am Wochenende* ich habe** Fussball gespielt,”* that’s wrong – the verb should be second idea: “Am Wochenende habe ich Fussball gespielt.”. How to improve: Drill yourself with example sentences. Write a few with weil and dass and check the verb placement. When proofreading your writing, do a special check for commas – each time you see one, ask “did I start a subordinate clause? Is the verb at the end?” Speaking exercises: when answering “Warum?” questions, concentrate on kicking that verb to the end. It might feel unnatural at first, but with practice you’ll do it automatically.

• Tense Mix-Ups (especially Past Tense): It’s common to mix up present and past, or use the wrong auxiliary verb. Students might say “Letzte Woche ich gehe ins Kino” (present tense structure) instead of “Letzte Woche bin ich ins Kino gegangen.”. Or they’ll use sein when they should use haben, e.g. “Ich bin Fussball gespielt” instead of “Ich habe Fussball gespielt.” Remember: most verbs form the Perfekt (past tense) with haben, and only a select group use sein (generally verbs of motion or change of state, like gehen, fahren, kommen, sterben, werden). How to improve: Make yourself a cheatsheet of common past participles and their auxiliaries (e.g. gegangen – sein, gemacht – haben, gegessen – haben). Do targeted exercises on past tense formation. When writing about a past event, double-check each verb: did I include a form of haben/sein and put the participle at the end? In speaking, if you realise you said it wrong, correct yourself: “Oh, ich meine, ich bin gefahren.” – self-correction shows the examiner you know the rule even if you slipped up initially.

• Gender and Case Mistakes: German articles and adjective endings depend on gender (der/die/das) and case (nom/acc/dat), and mistakes here are common. For example, saying “meine Bruder” instead of “meinen Bruder” in the accusative, or “der Frau” when it should be “der Frau*?**”* depending on case (e.g. “mit der Frau” (dative) vs “die Frau” (nom/acc)). Many students use the wrong gender for common nouns (“das Problem” is neuter, not die Problem). How to improve: Learn nouns with their article always – treat die Schule or das Auto as one unit when memorising vocabulary. For cases, remember some key rules: the most frequent need is the accusative after 'ich habe/ich mag' and similar constructions. Therefore, practice the accusative: 'der' becomes 'den', 'ein' becomes 'einen' for masculine objects. When you check writing, circle your nouns and see if their articles/adjectives match the case. A tip for adjective endings: if it’s too confusing, at least get the basic -e or -en right (most plural and masculine accusative will end in -en). There are charts and songs to memorise these; use whichever method helps (some like the acronym rese/nese for der-words, etc.). Over time, with lots of exposure, you’ll start to “feel” what sounds correct.

• Literal Translation & Anglicisms: A classic mistake is trying to translate English idioms or structures directly into German. For instance, “I am 16 years old” – a student might say “Ich bin 16 Jahre alt” (which is correct) or mistakenly “Ich habe 16 Jahre” (calquing from French/Spanish perhaps). Or saying “es macht Spaß zu” incorrectly (should be “es macht Spaß” by itself or “Es macht mir Spaß, Fußball zu spielen.”). Another example: “I like to play football” – German prefers “Ich spiele gern Fußball,” not “Ich mag Fußball spielen” (though understandable, it’s not the common idiom). How to improve: Whenever you learn a new expression, take note of how Germans actually say it. It’s worth keeping a small list of English phrases vs. German equivalents for tricky ones (e.g., “to ask a question” = eine Frage stellen, not literally fragen in that structure). When writing, if you find yourself writing something and thinking “I literally translated that from English in my head,” double-check if you’ve seen a similar phrase in your textbook or other sources. Reading more German (texts, dialogues) helps you internalise idiomatic structures. Also, be cautious with online translators – they can lead you astray. Use a good dictionary or ask a teacher/tutor if you’re unsure how to express something.

• Not Answering Exactly What’s Asked: This is more of an exam technique issue, but still common. For instance, in the writing exam, a bullet might be “Beschreib eine Person in deiner Familie.” Some students might start telling a story about that person instead of describing them, thus not fully doing what was asked (description). In reading/listening, a question might ask for one detail but students give two, or miss the detail and give something related but incorrect. How to improve: Always identify the task words. If it says “How many…?”, the answer should be a number. If it says “Why…?”, make sure your answer includes a reason (look for weil or denn in the text or respond with because…). In writing, literally check off each bullet after you’ve covered it – examiners often award content points per bullet, so missing one can drop you a grade. For speaking, listen carefully to what the question is – if asked “Wann…?” (when), answer with a time or date, not a place. It sounds obvious, but under pressure, it’s easy to go off track. Practice past questions and have someone mark if you actually answered the question or went on a tangent.

• Pronunciation and Listening Confusion: Certain German sounds cause recurring issues. For example, mixing up “ich” [ɪç] and “ich” as in “ich” vs “ach” sounds, or not distinguishing “ü” vs “u”. This can lead to misunderstandings – e.g. mispronouncing “zwölf” (12) as “zwolf” might not be understood by a native. Or in listening, not recognising a word because of accent differences or because you expect a different pronunciation (some don’t recognise “steigen” in a weather report because it’s pronounced like “shtigen”). How to improve: Specifically drill pronunciation of any word that you know you mispronounce – ask your teacher to model it, or use online pronunciation tools. For listening, expose yourself to different speakers; even within standard German, hearing multiple voices helps. If you consistently can’t catch a particular number or name, practice those (train your ear for the difference between dreizehn and dreißig, for example). Also, learn to use context in listening: even if you miss a word, the surrounding words can hint at it. For speaking, if you have a thick accent on some words, focus on clarity of each syllable. Record yourself reading a passage and note where you stumble. Improvement in pronunciation tends to also improve listening, as your brain aligns the sounds you make with those you hear.

Remember, making mistakes is a natural part of learning. The goal is not to be perfect from the start, but to identify your common mistakes and work on them. Many of our students at Olesen Tuition come to us with these exact issues – and through targeted practice and clear explanations, they overcome them one by one. For example, we often do quick “grammar bursts” in class focusing on one tricky point (say, word order with weil), and then incorporate that into speaking/writing exercises so it sticks. By the time the exam arrives, you’ll be conscious of these pitfalls and know how to avoid them, which means you can focus on showcasing all the excellent German you CAN do – and get that A*!

Final Thoughts: Achieving an A* in IGCSE German is a challenge – but as we’ve shown in this guide, with the right approach, it’s absolutely achievable. Keep your goal in sight and work steadily towards it. Celebrate your progress along the way, whether it’s mastering a new tense, acing a vocab quiz, or finally feeling confident in a mock speaking exam. Both students and parents should remember that language learning is a marathon, not a sprint; consistent effort pays off.

If you ever feel stuck or want expert guidance to push you to the next level, Olesen Tuition is here to help. We offer weekly IGCSE German classes that reinforce school learning and build exam skills, as well as 1:1 tuition tailored to your exam board and individual needs (perfect for focusing on personal weak spots). During school breaks, our half-term and Easter revision courses provide an intensive review and exam practice – ideal for cementing knowledge and boosting confidence right before exams. With over 25 years of experience and a stellar record of 95% of our students achieving Grade 9/A*, we pride ourselves on helping learners reach their full potential. Our Oxford-educated tutor has particular expertise in IGCSE exam preparation, so you’ll get insider tips and strategies that make a difference.

Ultimately, whether you study on your own or with our support, aim high and stay positive. An A* is not just a reflection of hard work – it’s proof of effective communication skills in German, cultural understanding, and academic excellence. Those are skills and qualities that will stay with you far beyond the exam. Viel Erfolg! Wishing you the best of luck in your IGCSE German journey – go for that A*, and enjoy the process of becoming proficient in this wonderful language. Schafft ihr das? Ja, ihr schafft das! (Can you do it? Yes, you can do it!)

#igcsegerman