The W-Fragen in German are question words. They are also known as 'open-ended questions. In English the W-Fragen also begin 'w': who, what, when, where, why, and how. (These questions are different from the ja/nein Fragen or yes/no questions in German begin with the verb ("Arbeiten Sie heute?" "Kommen Sie aus Bayern?").)
You begin learning the W-Fragen at the A1 level in German and at the A2 level you add another layer to it, followed by even more at the B1 level. It's like a 3-layered cake!
In most books you usually see a list like this, it's just the German and English translations. But is that really enough? Take a close look.
|
German |
English |
|
was |
what |
|
wann |
when |
|
wo |
where |
|
wie |
how |
|
warum |
why |
|
wer |
who |
If you simply memorize this list, that's one technique for learning it. And that would probably be kind of boring.
What if you had an example sentence which you could use like an anchor?
An example sentence here would be really helpful! You could attach meaning to the words and you would have a sentence that functions like a touchstone--you can always go back to it to help you with other sentences and questions.
If you'd like such a resource which is already done for you, then by all means click here to download this complimentary "Quick Guide to the W-Fragen" for the A1, A2, and B1 levels (as a PDF):
You can use it as a reference for many classes and study hours to come. Keep in mind, however, that downloading a PDF is only downloading a PDF. Unless you put it into action and get all the way into speaking German, it's only a resource, not a tool for learning and speaking.
Put your German into action with video lessons, tutoring, small group classes, and/or private lessons with Frau Warner and get alllll the way to speaking German.