DTZ B1 – Sprechen: Structure, Requirements, and Preparation Tips
The speaking part of the DTZ B1 exam assesses the ability to express oneself orally in everyday situations in German. This part of the exam lasts a total of 16 minutes and consists of three parts. The tasks are practical and based on real communication situations.
1. Structure of the B1 Sprechen Section in the DTZ B1 Exam
The oral exam is usually conducted in pairs. Candidates interact with each other and with the examiner.
- Duration: 16 minutes
- Speaking Partner: Another exam participant
- Evaluation: Assessed by two examiners
- Requirements: Clear, coherent, and appropriate communication
The Three Parts of the Oral Exam
Part 1: Introducing Yourself (approx. 3 minutes)
In this section, each candidate briefly introduces themselves. Typical information to include:
- Name
- Origin
- Place of residence
- Family
- Hobbies
- Job / Education
Important: The introduction should be fluent and without long pauses. Examiners may ask follow-up questions.
Part 2: Speaking About a Topic (approx. 3-4 minutes)
Candidates pick a card with a daily-life topic and talk about it. Example topics:
- My daily routine
- My free time
- My city / place of residence
- My travel experience
Important: Candidates should speak coherently and clearly, provide examples, and share their own experiences.
Part 3: Planning Something Together (approx. 6-7 minutes)
Candidates receive a situation description and must plan something together. Examples:
- Organizing a birthday party
- Going on a trip
- Looking for an apartment
- Attending an event
Important:
- Make suggestions (“What do you think about…?”).
- Ask for the other person's opinion (“How do you find…?”).
- Agree on a common solution (“Yes, that’s a good idea!”).
2. Evaluation Criteria for B1 Sprechen in the DTZ Exam
Examiners evaluate performance based on the following criteria:
- Fluency & Comprehensibility – Is the candidate understandable? Are there long pauses?
- Grammar & Vocabulary – Are sentences structured correctly? Is the vocabulary appropriate?
- Interaction & Communication – Does the candidate engage with their partner? Do they ask questions actively?
- Pronunciation & Intonation – Is the pronunciation clear?
Note: Mistakes are allowed as long as communication remains understandable.
3. Preparation Tips for B1 Sprechen
- Speak daily – Practice German with friends, in courses, or online.
- Practice introducing yourself – Repeat your self-presentation several times out loud.
- Prepare for various topics – Talk about leisure, work, travel, and daily life.
- Practice interaction – Engage in discussions and express opinions.
- Read aloud & repeat – Repeat audio texts to improve pronunciation.
- Practice suggestions & questions – Learn common phrases for discussions.
The B1 Sprechen section of the DTZ B1 exam is an important component of the test. Regular practice, thorough preparation, and frequent conversations in German will greatly improve the chances of success in this section.
The more you speak, the more confident you will become!
