Goethe B1 Reading Part 2 – Newspaper Articles
In Part 2 you read two newspaper articles 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 two newspaper articles and answer 6 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 longer, connected texts – usually two newspaper or magazine articles. For each article you solve three tasks with three options each (a, b or c). Only one is correct.
The tasks usually follow the order of the text. At B1 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 claim 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.
Immer mehr junge Leute teilen sich ein Auto, statt selbst eines zu kaufen. Das spart Geld und Parkplätze, und für die Umwelt ist es auch besser.
Why do many young people share a car?
- aWeil Autos heute schöner sind.
- Weil es günstiger und umweltfreundlicher ist.
- cWeil es keine Parkplätze mehr gibt.
Why? The text names “spart Geld” and “für die Umwelt besser” – that’s option b in different words. (a) and (c) are not in the text.
Practice: test yourself
Aus einem Artikel (sinngemäß): „Eine neue Studie zeigt: Wer regelmäßig zu Fuß zur Arbeit geht, ist seltener krank. Schon 20 Minuten Bewegung am Tag stärken das Immunsystem deutlich."
What is the result of the study?
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”, “obwohl”, “deshalb” – they show connections.
- Practice reading factual texts and articles.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does reading Part 2 have?
Six multiple-choice tasks (a/b/c) on two newspaper articles – three tasks per 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 articles and practice recognizing paraphrases. With a Prepliq mock you get the answer explained after each task.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn 600+ of the most important Goethe-Zertifikat B1 words interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official Goethe-Zertifikat B1 practice test – with answers and study material.