Goethe A2 Hören (Listening): The 4 Parts and Tactics

Last updated: July 2026 · 6 min read

Hören (listening) is one of the written modules of Goethe A2. It lasts about 30 minutes, has four parts, and a total of 20 items (20 points). You listen to everyday conversations, announcements, and broadcasts. An important detail: you hear some parts twice and others once.

Teil 1: Short Texts (heard twice)

You hear radio broadcasts, short conversations, answering-machine messages, and announcements, and answer 5 multiple-choice questions (a/b/c). You hear each text twice; catch the gist on the first play and the detail on the second.

Teil 2: One Conversation – Picture Matching (heard once)

You hear one conversation about the days or activities of a week and choose the correct picture (a–i) for each day/item. You hear this part only once; glance at the pictures before it starts.

Teil 3: Five Short Dialogues (heard once)

You hear five short everyday dialogues and answer 1 multiple-choice question (a/b/c) for each (5 in total). This part is also heard once; read the question in advance so you know what to listen for.

Teil 4: Interview – Richtig/Falsch (heard twice)

You hear an Interview and decide whether 5 statements are true or false (richtig/falsch). You hear this part twice; read the statements beforehand and mark the key words.

Listening Tactics

1. Read the questions/pictures before the audio starts; decide what information you expect.
2. Pay special attention to details such as numbers, times, and directions.
3. If you miss one item, don't freeze; move on and come back during the parts heard twice.
4. Train your ear regularly with German radio and short podcasts.

Conclusion

Hören becomes clearly easier once you know how many times each part is played and you read the questions in advance. Regular listening practice lets you follow the audio comfortably on exam day.

For the full exam, see our Goethe A2 guide.