Goethe A2 Reading Part 2 – Article
In Part 2 you read a short article and answer multiple-choice questions. Here’s how to find the right option.
As of 2026 · Built to the official exam format
Key takeaways
- You read a short article and answer 5 multiple-choice tasks (a/b/c).
- The answer is often paraphrased – look for the statement in different words.
What this part tests
Part 2 tests whether you understand a short, connected text – usually a newspaper or internet article. You answer five tasks with three options each (a, b or c). Only one is correct.
The statements usually follow the order of the text. At A2 the correct answer is often in different words in the text (paraphrased), not literal. You have to recognize the statement, not just a matching word.
Wrong options often pick up a word from the text but miss the meaning, or mention something not in the text. Rely on the text alone. Every correct answer scores points; wrong answers are not penalized.
How to approach it
- 1
Read the article once in full for an overview.
- 2
Read each question and look for the matching spot in the text.
- 3
Choose the option that restates the text in different words.
- 4
Rule out options that aren’t in the text or miss the meaning.
- 5
Back up your answer with a spot in the text.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: read the extract and choose the right option.
Viele Familien verbringen ihren Urlaub gern auf dem Bauernhof. Die Kinder können dort Tiere sehen und im Freien spielen, und die Eltern finden Ruhe.
Why do many families holiday on a farm?
- aWeil es dort sehr billig ist.
- Weil Kinder Tiere sehen und Eltern Ruhe finden.
- cWeil es dort viele Geschäfte gibt.
Why? The text says that “Kinder … Tiere sehen” and “die Eltern … Ruhe finden” – that’s option b in different words. (a) and (c) are not in the text.
Practice: test yourself
Aus einem Artikel (sinngemäß): „Immer mehr Menschen in der Stadt fahren mit dem Fahrrad zur Arbeit. Sie sparen so Zeit im Stau und tun etwas für ihre Gesundheit."
Why do many people cycle to work?
Common mistakes
A word from the text doesn’t make the option right. The answer is often paraphrased.
Only what’s in the text counts – not what you personally know about the topic.
Read the text closely enough to find the right spot.
No answer means a guaranteed zero. Guess an option if you have to.
Tips
- Mark the spot in the text that proves your answer.
- Watch for words like “weil”, “aber”, “deshalb” – they show connections.
- Practice reading short factual texts and articles.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does reading Part 2 have?
Five multiple-choice tasks with three options each (a/b/c) on a short article.
Does the correct answer appear word for word in the text?
Often not. It’s usually paraphrased. Look for the statement, not the same word.
Are wrong answers penalized?
No. There is no penalty – answer every task.
What’s the best way to practice Part 2?
Read short articles and practice recognizing paraphrases. With a Prepliq mock you get the answer explained after each task.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn 500+ of the most important Goethe-Zertifikat A2 words interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official Goethe-Zertifikat A2 practice test – with answers and study material.