German Classes in Seattle & Online | Learn German for Adults

At Seattle Speaks German, we are committed to helping you begin speaking German from your very first class. Our comprehensive courses are designed to equip you with the tools and support necessary to enhance your proficiency, whether you're planning a visit to a German-speaking country or considering a move. Our goal is to provide a strong foundation and boost your confidence in your new language journey.

 

How do we teach German online?

Read more about the following topics:

Our Teaching Approach

Proficiency Levels

Textbooks

Virtual Classroom

What's Included in Your Course Experience

Course Schedule

List of current courses and their content

Private Lessons

 

 

Our Teaching Approach

We emphasize active speaking in our classes, enabling you to build your German skills through meaningful, task-based exercises. Rather than just learning vocabulary and grammar in isolation, you'll apply them in real-world scenarios, like planning a trip, giving recommendations, or solving everyday challenges in German. This research-backed approach ensures you build a solid foundation rather than just memorizing phrases.

Our curriculum is carefully selected and continuously updated to suit the online learning environment. Beyond grammar, we focus on effective learning strategies tailored to your needs and provide insights into the history, geography, and culture of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

With years of experience teaching German, I specialize in modern, interactive online learning that keeps students engaged. My courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), ensuring structured progress with up-to-date materials that complement your course book. I continuously refine my teaching approach to bring you the best online learning experience, incorporating interactive exercises, real-world materials, and modern teaching techniques.

Whether you're a complete beginner or returning to German after a long break, progress takes time and consistency. Students who thrive here show up prepared, engage actively, and treat each class like the real commitment it is. In return, you'll find a structured, encouraging environment where your German genuinely moves forward, quarter by quarter.

 

 

 

 

A dark spiral shape with an arrow at the top, curving upwards in a dynamic motion, symbolizing growth, progression, or movement.

 

Proficiency Levels

Our courses and private lessons adhere to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), which classifies proficiency in six levels, from beginner (A1) to mastery (C2), grouped into three stages: Basic User (A1–A2), Independent User (B1–B2), and Proficient User (C1–C2).

Each level takes time to build. At Seattle Speaks German, one level usually spans about eight courses, most with 12 hours of live instruction and around 8 hours of homework (summer courses are shorter). While each course is focused and moves at a good pace, working through two units, the program as a whole is designed to fit into a busy life, so your German keeps moving forward steadily over time. Individual factors like prior language learning experience and motivation significantly influence the pace of progression.

 

"A graph illustrating the CEFR language proficiency levels from A1 to C2. The x-axis shows levels A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2, while the y-axis represents progression. A light blue line with dots connects the levels, each labeled with a short description: A1 - Basic phrases & introductions, A2 - Simple conversations & routine tasks, B1 - Handling travel & work situations, B2 - Spontaneous conversations & opinions, C1 - Understanding complex texts & fluency, and C2 - Near-native comprehension & expression."

 

Textbooks

For our online classes, we utilize the "Das Leben" series from Cornelsen, designed for both online and face-to-face instruction. These textbooks include a workbook for homework exercises and are complemented by audio and video content accessible via the free PagePlayer App. Depending on your course level, you'll need "Das Leben A1," "Das Leben A2," or "Das Leben B1," each priced at $46. We recommend ordering from this website. For advanced students, we use "Vielfalt" from Hueber, with advanced classes available exclusively through private lessons.

         

             

 

Virtual Classroom

Our virtual classroom is a valuable tool that complements our Zoom meetings. It offers an overview of lessons, helps you track your progress, provides meaningful exercises, and facilitates connections with fellow learners. Each student receives a personal account to access these resources.

 

 

 

What's Included in Your Course Experience

  • Office hours - Weekly drop-in support sessions for extra help
  • Word lists - Available to listen to, print, or work with offline
  • Extra grammar review slides - Access materials on your own time
  • Modern whiteboard/slideshows - Shared after each class (no recordings!)
  • Virtual classroom - Track progress, exercises, connect with fellow learners
  • All coursebook bonus materials - Extra resources included
  • Community of learners - You're not learning alone

 

Course Schedule

Group courses are organized into quarters, with each Fall Quarter introducing a new beginner course for students with no prior German knowledge. Subsequent quarters offer continued progression through higher levels.

Embark on your German learning journey with us and experience a supportive, engaging, and culturally enriching environment.

A table displaying a structured German course progression over four years, divided by academic quarters (Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer). Each year includes different levels: the 1st year covers Beginner Levels 1, 2, 3, and a Writing Course in summer; the 2nd year continues with Beginner Levels 4 through 7; the 3rd year transitions to Intermediate Levels 1 through 4; and the 4th year advances through Intermediate Levels 5 to 8.

 

Here is a list of current courses and their content.


 

Greetings & Getting Started

Beginner Level 1

For this course no previous knowledge of German is required!

„Wie heißen Sie?“

(What's your name?)

Imagine you are visiting a German-speaking country. What better way to show your interest and curiosity than learn  the language? In this course you will learn to use basic phrases with confidence and ask your own questions. If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.

You will learn:

  • To greet someone and to say goodbye

  • To introduce yourself and others

  • To spell your name

  • To say your phone number

  • To ask questions

This course introduces the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. Join us to get started with German in a supportive atmosphere to gain confidence speaking. You will expand your vocabulary and learn new grammar. If you have any questions please get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.

 

How the course works:

This course is held live via Zoom and supported by your own virtual classroom. There you'll find a clear weekly structure: once a week you receive an update with everything you need for the next lesson, the whiteboard notes are saved after class so you can review them, and each week includes homework and extra practice matched to the textbook. Everything is organized so you always know what to do and can practice between sessions at your own pace.

 

Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 12:15pm and 1:00pm, we hold open office hours. This is a special time we've set aside just for students in the group courses! It's a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you're welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours. No appointment necessary!

 

Textbook: Das Leben - A1

Cover of the course book Das Leben A1 showing a woman holding a cellphone.

Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.

A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 12.


 

At the Café & Restaurant

Beginner Level 2

„Was trinken Sie?“

(What are you drinking?)

Imagine you’re in Germany, and you stop to have lunch at a café. When the waiter comes, you order what you’ve chosen from the menu. When you’ve finished your meal, you ask for the check, pay and give a tip. You do all of this in German. That’s what will be possible after taking this course! If you have travel plans to Europe, or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.

You'll learn:

  • How to order and pay in a café (including German tipping norms)

  • To arrange to meet

  • To talk about food

  • To express your likes and dislikes

This course continues the introduction to the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. Join us to continue learning German in a supportive atmosphere to gain confidence speaking. You will expand your vocabulary and learn new grammar as well. Note: For this course a little bit of German knowledge is required — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch!

 

How the course works:

This course is held live via Zoom and supported by your own virtual classroom. There you'll find a clear weekly structure: once a week you receive an update with everything you need for the next lesson, the whiteboard notes are saved after class so you can review them, and each week includes homework and extra practice matched to the textbook. Everything is organized so you always know what to do and can practice between sessions at your own pace.

 

Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 12:15pm and 1:00pm, we hold open office hours. This is a special time we've set aside just for students in the group courses! It's a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you're welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours. No appointment necessary!

 

 

 

Textbook: Das Leben - A1

Cover of the course book Das Leben A1 showing a woman holding a cellphone.

Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.

A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.


Work & Leisure Time

Beginner Level 4

For this course some previous knowledge of German is required!

„Arbeit & Freizeit“

(Work & leisure time)

Imagine you’re moving to a German-speaking city and starting a new job. You have to get oriented in a new building and greet your new colleagues. Deciding who to address formally or informally isn't easy! Perhaps you would like to continue your favorite sport or other leisure-time activities and meet new people. You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.

You'll learn:

  • To talk about a company

  • To get oriented in a building

  • To name rooms and items in the office

  • To greet people in professional life

  • To say what leisure-time activities you like and what you are able to do

  • To talk about hobbies and sports

  • To talk about a location or city

  • To say where you have been

This course continues the introduction to the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. Join us to continue learning German in a supportive atmosphere to gain confidence speaking. You will expand your vocabulary and learn new grammar. Note: For this course a little bit of German knowledge is required — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me for that.

 

How the course works:

This course is held live via Zoom and supported by your own virtual classroom. There you'll find a clear weekly structure: once a week you receive an update with everything you need for the next lesson, the whiteboard notes are saved after class so you can review them, and each week includes homework and extra practice matched to the textbook. Everything is organized so you always know what to do and can practice between sessions at your own pace.

 

Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 12:15pm and 1:00pm, we hold open office hours. This is a special time we've set aside just for students in the group courses! It's a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you're welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours. No appointment necessary!

 

 

 

Textbook: Das Leben - A1

Cover of the course book Das Leben A1 showing a woman holding a cellphone.

Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.

A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.


Home & Family Life

Beginner Level 5

For this course some previous knowledge of German is required!

„Wie wohnst du?“

(How do you live?)

Imagine you are visiting your friend or your partner's family in a German-speaking country. What better way to show your interest and curiosity than learn the language? In this course you will learn to talk about housing and your family. If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.

You will learn:

  • To talk about flats

  • To describe a flat

  • To talk about furniture

  • To talk about your likes and dislikes

  • To describe your family

  • To talk about a family-run business

This course introduces to the language and everyday culture of German-speaking countries. Join us to get started with German in a supportive atmosphere to gain confidence speaking. You will expand your vocabulary and learn new grammar. If you have any questions please get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me for that.

 

How the course works:

This course is held live via Zoom and supported by your own virtual classroom. There you'll find a clear weekly structure: once a week you receive an update with everything you need for the next lesson, the whiteboard notes are saved after class so you can review them, and each week includes homework and extra practice matched to the textbook. Everything is organized so you always know what to do and can practice between sessions at your own pace.

 

Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 12:15pm and 1:00pm, we hold open office hours. This is a special time we've set aside just for students in the group courses! It's a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you're welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours. No appointment necessary!

 

Textbook: Das Leben - A1

 

Cover of the course book Das Leben A1 showing a woman holding a cellphone.

Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.

A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.


 

Long time no see!

Intermediate Level 1

"Lange nicht gesehen!"

(Long time no see!)

Imagine you're planning a high school reunion or another big event in a German-speaking city. You have to write invitations and organize where and when to meet. You have to plan the trip, compare options and availabilities. At the event you have to talk about yourself and pass on information. You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.

You'll learn:

  • To write an invitation

  • To organize a meeting/gathering of people

  • To talk about yourself

  • To talk about mobility

  • To name reasons

  • To plan a trip

This course consolidates knowledge from previous courses and builds the foundation for the A2-proficiency level. You will expand your knowledge about important vocabulary and grammar. As always, the spoken communication is the priority. Note: For this course basic German knowledge is required — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Just contact us.

 

How the course works:

This course is held live via Zoom and supported by your own virtual classroom. There you'll find a clear weekly structure: once a week you receive an update with everything you need for the next lesson, the whiteboard notes are saved after class so you can review them, and each week includes homework and extra practice matched to the textbook. Everything is organized so you always know what to do and can practice between sessions at your own pace.

 

Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 12:15pm and 1:00pm, we hold open office hours. This is a special time we've set aside just for students in the group courses! It's a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you're welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours. No appointment necessary!

 

Textbook: Das Leben A2

Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.

A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.

Housing & Media

Intermediate Level 2

"Wohnen & Medien"

(Housing & Media)

Imagine you're planning to move to a German-speaking city. You need to read housing advertisements, view apartments and ask detailed questions. Many people are on the move nowadays and are simultaneously always available and online. What do you think about this modern way of living? You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! If you have travel plans to Europe or will be joining your German-speaking partner to visit family, this course is for you.

You'll learn:

  • To talk about housing

  • To look for an apartment

  • To comment on house rules

  • To talk about what is forbidden and allowed

  • To talk about cellphones and media

  • To comment a chart

  • To express your opinion

This course  continues to build the foundation for the A2-proficiency level. You will expand your knowledge about important vocabulary and grammar. As always, the spoken communication is the priority. Note: For this course basic German knowledge is required — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Just contact me.

 

How the course works:

This course is held live via Zoom and supported by your own virtual classroom. There you'll find a clear weekly structure: once a week you receive an update with everything you need for the next lesson, the whiteboard notes are saved after class so you can review them, and each week includes homework and extra practice matched to the textbook. Everything is organized so you always know what to do and can practice between sessions at your own pace.

 

Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 12:15pm and 1:00pm, we hold open office hours. This is a special time we've set aside just for students in the group courses! It's a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you're welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours. No appointment necessary!

 

 

 

Textbook: Das Leben A2

Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.

A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.

Alltag und Abenteuer

Intermediate Level 5

"Alltag und Abenteuer: Vom Tagesablauf bis zum Sommerfest"

(Everyday Life and Adventure: From Daily Routines to Summer Festivals )

Imagine living your daily life in a German-speaking country. How do you describe your morning routine or chat about the tasks you need to do at home?  What if you're at a summer festival and want to join in the excitement or talk about music? You’ll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! Whether you’re planning a trip to Europe, preparing for a cultural experience, or just looking to deepen your German skills, this course is for you.

You'll learn to:

  • Describe and talk about daily routines.

  • Talk about household tasks and responsibilities.

  • Engage in conversations about music and festivals.

  • Tell stories about past experiences.

  • Express moods and excitement using appropriate vocabulary.

  • Understand and write clear, concise reports.

This course continues to build the foundation for the A2-proficiency level. You will expand your knowledge of essential vocabulary and grammar, while maintaining a focus on spoken communication. 

Note - For this course the following is required:

  • Basic German knowledge — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.
  • The textbook Das Leben A2. You can order the book here. You can read more about the textbook here.

How the course works:

This course is held live via Zoom and supported by your own virtual classroom. There you'll find a clear weekly structure: once a week you receive an update with everything you need for the next lesson, the whiteboard notes are saved after class so you can review them, and each week includes homework and extra practice matched to the textbook. Everything is organized so you always know what to do and can practice between sessions at your own pace.

 

Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 12:15pm and 1:00pm, we hold open office hours. This is a special time we've set aside just for students in the group courses! It's a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you're welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours. No appointment necessary!

 

 

 

Textbook: Das Leben A2

 

Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.

A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.

Grün gedacht & selbst gemacht

Intermediate Level 6

"Grün gedacht und selbst gemacht. Nachhaltigkeit und Kreativität im Alltag"

(Green Thinking and Homemade: Sustainability and Creativity in Daily Life)

Picture yourself living sustainably in a German-speaking country—how do you discuss environmental issues with your neighbors or explain the benefits of repairing instead of replacing? What if you want to participate in a local repair café, offer to trade items with someone, or give clear instructions for a DIY project? You'll be able to do all this in German after taking this course! Whether you're passionate about environmental protection, interested in the growing sustainability movement in German-speaking countries, or simply want to expand your practical German skills, this course is perfect for you.

You'll learn to:

  • Describe environmental conditions and discuss environmental protection
  • Express conditions and consequences using appropriate structures
  • Offer and decline exchanges or trades effectively
  • Talk about goals and sustainability initiatives
  • Discuss repair cafés and community sustainability projects
  • Explain what you need for specific purposes
  • Understand and formulate clear instructions and tutorials
  • Handle complaints and returns professionally

This course continues to build the foundation for the A2-proficiency level. You will expand your knowledge of essential vocabulary and grammar related to environmental topics and practical skills, while maintaining a focus on spoken communication. 

Note - For this course the following is required:

  • Basic German knowledge — if you’re not sure if you’re at the right level, feel free to get in touch or sign up for a free get-to-know-you-meeting. You can always join the first meeting for free to see if it's a good fit for you. Please contact me.
  • The textbook Das Leben A2. You can order the book here. You can read more about the textbook here.

 

How the course works:

This course is held live via Zoom and supported by your own virtual classroom. There you'll find a clear weekly structure: once a week you receive an update with everything you need for the next lesson, the whiteboard notes are saved after class so you can review them, and each week includes homework and extra practice matched to the textbook. Everything is organized so you always know what to do and can practice between sessions at your own pace.

 

Office Hours:
Every Tuesday between 12:15pm and 1:00pm, we hold open office hours. This is a special time we've set aside just for students in the group courses! It's a chance for you to drop in and get personalized support. Whether you have questions about course materials, need help with a homework exercise, are facing any challenges in the course, or simply want to say "Hallo," you're welcome to stop by. Office hours are open for all students in the group courses, and it's a great opportunity to receive additional guidance in a relaxed, informal setting. Feel free to join at any time during these hours. No appointment necessary!

 

 

 

Textbook: Das Leben A2

 

Audios and videos to the course book are available on an app. The app is called PagePlayer App (Cornelsen) and can be downloaded in your online store. The app is free of charge and can only be activated with a textbook. The cost of the textbook is not included in the course fee. You can order the book here.

A minimum of 6 students is required to run the class. The maximum number of participants per class is 10.

B1 - Bühne frei fürs Leben

Bühne frei fürs Leben

von Erasmus bis zur Theaterbühne

Welcome to B1! In this small group course, we'll work through the first two units of Das Leben B1 together. In a small group of 2–4 students, you'll keep deepening your German with plenty of speaking practice and direct feedback from me.

Unit 1 – Bildung (er)leben (education & studying abroad)
You'll learn to:

  • Talk about Erasmus+ and experiences abroad
  • Summarize information
  • Ask for and give advice
  • Speak politely (questions, requests, suggestions)
  • Start and keep a conversation going
  • Grammar: Konjunktiv II der Modalverben (könnte, müsste, sollte), graduating adverbs (sehr, ziemlich, besonders), irgendwo/-was/-wann/-wer

Unit 2 – Vorhang auf! (all about theater)
A fun unit, including a scene from Tschick. You'll learn to:

  • Talk about jobs in the theater
  • Say what you do (and don't) feel like doing
  • Negotiate meaning and ask follow-up questions in surprise
  • Act out a short theater scene
  • Grammar: Infinitiv mit zu, Nebensätze mit während

Course details

  • 2–4 students, 10 sessions, once a week for 50 minutes
  • Two units from Das Leben B1
  • Virtual classroom access included
  • $65 per person, per session (plus sales tax, depending on where you live)

Textbook: Das Leben B1