telc A1 Listening Part 1 – Short Conversations
In Part 1 you hear six short conversations. For each you choose from three answers or pictures. Here’s how to find the right one.
As of 2026 · Built to the official exam format
Key takeaways
- 6 short conversations – choose from three answers or pictures (a/b/c) per task.
- You hear each text twice. Focus on the one important piece of information.
What this part tests
Part 1 tests whether you understand short everyday conversations. You hear six short texts – for example at the till, at the station or in a café – and solve one task each with three answers (a, b or c), often with pictures.
It’s about one simple piece of information: what time is it? What does it cost? Where does the train go? You don’t have to understand every word, just recognize the important information. You hear each text twice.
The biggest hurdle is numbers and similar words. Before listening, read the task and look at the pictures so you listen specifically for the right information. Every correct answer scores points; wrong answers are not penalized.
How to approach it
- 1
Before listening, read the task and look at the three pictures or answers.
- 2
Think about what to listen for: a time, a price, a place?
- 3
Listen to the text and focus on that information.
- 4
Mark your answer and check it on the second listen.
- 5
Don’t leave any task open – when unsure, guess.
- 6
Transfer your answers to the answer sheet in good time.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: you hear a short conversation and choose the right answer.
„Ich hätte gern ein Kilo Äpfel, bitte." – „Das macht zwei Euro fünfzig." – „Hier, bitte."
What does a kilo of apples cost? (a) €2.15 · (b) €2.50 · (c) €3.50
Why? In the conversation the seller says “zwei Euro fünfzig” – that’s €2.50 (b). “2.15” and “3.50” don’t fit.
Practice: test yourself
Du hörst (sinngemäß): „Entschuldigung, wie spät ist es?" – „Es ist Viertel nach acht." – „Danke!"
What time is it?
Common mistakes
“Viertel nach” and “Viertel vor”, or “13” and “30”, sound similar. Listen carefully to the whole word.
You only need the one important piece of information. Focus on it instead of every word.
Without knowing the task, you listen aimlessly. Use the time before listening.
No answer means a guaranteed zero. Guess an answer if you have to.
Tips
- Practice numbers, prices and times especially – they come up often in Part 1.
- Look at the pictures carefully before the text starts.
- Always use the second listen to check.
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks does listening Part 1 have?
Six. You hear six short conversations and choose from three answers (a/b/c) for each.
Do I hear the conversations in Part 1 twice?
Yes. The texts in Part 1 are played twice – use the second listen to check.
Are wrong answers penalized?
No. There is no penalty for guessing – so answer every task.
What’s the best way to practice Part 1?
Listen to short everyday dialogues and practice numbers and times. In a Prepliq mock you practice this with instant scoring.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn 600+ of the most important telc German A1 words interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official telc German A1 practice test – with answers and study material.