For years I’ve been learning German in an on-again, off-again sort of way—listening to podcasts, dabbling in textbooks, watching YouTube videos, and trying to absorb the language through passive exposure. It helped, but only to a point. Eventually I realized that if I actually wanted to reach a higher level—specifically the Goethe B2 exam, which I’m scheduled to take this coming summer—I needed something more than scattered effort. I needed structure and routine. In a sense, I needed to build myself a roadmap. Where am I currently at? Where do I want to go?
That’s how my three-phase study plan was born.
Technically, there were four phases, because Phase 0 was all about scheduling and preparation. But now that the planning is complete, I’m ready to begin the first real leg of the journey in just two days. No more procrastination. Phase One is where everything starts to solidify.
What Phase One Is
Phase One answers the question: Where am I at right now?
I’m currently B1, and I want to raise my knowledge to a solid B2 level. Phase One is a six-week structured reset designed to rebuild my B1 foundation and move deliberately into the early stages of B2 thinking. It isn’t meant to be overwhelming—it’s a steady, consistent plan built around short, focused sessions.
The core idea is simple:
recover everything I already know, regain control of grammar, build early B2 skills, and do it all in a predictable weekly rhythm.
It’s built on:
- Daily study (30–60 minutes)
- Five active study days per week
- Grammar review, structured writing, and speaking practice
- Weekends reserved for rest, catch-up, or light input such as podcasts or reading
Core Goals of Phase One
1. Master B1 Grammar Thoroughly
Not in the sense of achieving perfection, but through exposure, review, and repetition. I’ll be completing 12 chapters of Vorsprung—two per week—to give myself a sweeping review of foundational topics.
2. Develop Early B2 Writing Skills
Twice a week, I’ll respond to structured writing prompts modeled on B2 exam tasks. These short writing sessions force me to use grammar, word order, and vocabulary in a deliberate way.
3. Build Speaking Confidence
Once a week, I’ll take a 30-minute iTalki lesson focused on spontaneous speaking—mainly forming thoughts in the language and speaking them out loud to another person. It’s the area I’ve practiced the least, so it needs the most attention.
4. Rebuild a Consistent Study Habit
This phase is as much about routine as it is about grammar. The daily rhythm keeps the pressure low but the progress steady.
(And again—the purpose isn’t to master every grammar topic immediately. Phase One is about exposing myself to the full range of topics, noticing what I don’t know, revisiting weak spots, and preparing to go deeper during Phase Two.)
Weekly Structure (What Each Day Looks Like)
(The week will consist of time immersing with movies, music, and books in the German Language that is not scheduled here.)
Monday — Grammar Chapter A
• One full Vorsprung chapter
• Reading, grammar explanations, exercises
• 30–60 minutes
Tuesday — Writing Practice #1
• Free-writings. Use ChatGPT for corrections
Wednesday — Speaking Lesson
• 30-minute iTalki session
• Review grammar + spontaneous speaking practice
Thursday — Grammar Chapter B
• The second Vorsprung chapter of the week
• Another round of review + exercises
Friday — Writing Practice #2
• A short paragraph or composition integrating everything from the week
Saturday — Rest + Light Input
• Podcasts, Easy German, or reading
Sunday — Rest or Catch-Up
• No structured study required
Weekly Theme Focus for Writing & Speaking
To give each week a clear direction, I’m using Top-Thema mit Vokabeln from DW as the thematic anchor. This was suggested to me by a tutor on iTalki. It provides fresh vocabulary, current topics, and short, manageable texts to respond to—perfect for both writing and speaking practice.
Final Thoughts
Learning German gives me something meaningful outside of my career. It’s something I’ve stuck with through moves, jobs, classes, and different stages of my life. Now I finally want a certification that reflects that effort.
Having a structured plan keeps me grounded, motivated, and intentional. It removes uncertainty and replaces it with direction. And honestly—this feels exciting. Phase One is the first formal step in a long-term project toward B2 and eventually beyond.
Next Adventure Languages 