Session 3, Activity 4 (German)
Activity 4 German – understanding the verb position in German
OMT can provide insights into sentence structure and allow the learner, for example, to see how verb positions differ between German and English. OMT also helps to identify rules for main and subordinate clauses. Overall, it helps learners to build a stronger foundation in constructing grammatically correct sentences.
Now follow the four steps below.
Step 1
In English, describe and write down sentences about your typical working day. Begin each sentence with an expression of time.
Now input these sentences directly into OMT for a German translation.
Step 2
Read and analyse the German translations. What do you notice regarding the verb position in German?
Step 3
Edit the English sentences by removing the expression of time.
Step 4
Input the sentences from Step 3 into OMT for a German translation.
Compare the position of verbs with that of the German sentences that were translated in Step 2. What do you notice? Formulate a general rule.
Discussion
By engaging in these and similar OMT activities, you should gain a deeper understanding of German word order, learn to identify common mistakes, and have the opportunity to practise constructing sentences with the correct syntax. The use of OMT tools provides immediate feedback and helps reinforce learning through active practice and reflection.
You should have noticed that in German main clauses, the verb is usually in the second position even when starting with an expression of time.
Return to Session 3 [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] .