Book recommendations for learning grammar

Deutsch
#1

Hello there,

I was asked by a student recently, if I had any recommendations for a book that supplements their learning on Chatterbug. Specifically on grammar rules. Something that can be used to look up things in between lessons and to keep growing with.
I immediately thought of the standard literature like:

  • Die Grammatik - Duden
  • Essential Grammar in Use - by Raymond Murphy
  • Practice Makes Perfect Complete German Grammar - by Edward Swick

but these are so extensive and can be overwhelming and a bit too much all at once, plus there is a lot of info about exceptions. They can be great, but really tend to go into course book territory.

So the question is, has anyone come across a compact and simple little grammar book?
Maybe even a small paperback pocket book?

Would love to get some suggestions

Thank you,
David

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#2

Hi!

I am using Grammatik Aktiv - Cornelsen A1-B1.
I think it’s the German equivalent for “English Grammer in Use” books from Cambridge.
Each section takes 2 pages one mostly covers the grammar rules and the other is for exercises.

And I can’t be happier about it! I definitely recommend it for those stuck in between A1 and A2 or A2 and B1.

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#3

Thank you so much! :blush:

#4

I still find myself reaching for the laminated double-sided grammar reference guide I bought from Amazon years ago. It won’t teach the grammar concepts in any detail, but it’s a good aid for writing exercises or to jog your memory.

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#5

You’re right its a simple yet elegant cheat sheet for students as well as tutors. Do you know which one you bought exactly and if it’s still available. I’d love to suggest it to my students or maybe have a look at it myself :blush:

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#6

Hey!,
I recommend “Langenscheidt Grammatiktraining Deutsch als Fremdsprache” for levels A1-B1. There are a lot of exercises and it’s really great for practicing basic but tricky grammar rules. I still use it from time to time!

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#7

Thanks for the suggestion :blush:

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#8

I think it’s this one that I’ve got, although mine must be an older edition:

German Grammar: QuickStudy Laminated Reference Guide

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#10

@DavidBernhardt It sounds like what this student needs is a Chatter Book! This is an exciting new project that we are currently working on, you can find this information on the Chatterbug website under Chatterbug Labs. Feel free to encourage your students to sign up to the waiting list to receive a copy when it’s released!

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#11

Great idea @MarkUltra. You’re absolutely right that some of these books cost a fortune and provide almost the same knowledge as looking up the individual topics would online.

Also on the subject of a book being easier and simpler to learn with, that’s a great point. Given that we are always on our computers for work, leisure and language learning its refreshing to look at a good old book or printed out pages for that matter and just focus on what actually matters

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#12

Thanks for the tip. I’ve had my eyes on that project of your for a while now… really looking forward to seeing how it turn out!
Do you know which language(s) will it be covering or available in?

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