Can and able: singular 'können' + infinitive
Learning outcomes
I can say what I and others are able to do using the modal verb 'können' and correct word order.
I can pronounce [au].
Can and able: singular 'können' + infinitive
Learning outcomes
I can say what I and others are able to do using the modal verb 'können' and correct word order.
I can pronounce [au].
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Vocabulary and transcripts for this lessons
Key learning points
- [au] is pronounced as in 'Haus'.
- Learning new vocabulary (especially verbs) allows you to use familiar vocabulary in different ways.
- 'Können' is a modal verb used to say what you can and cannot do (as in physically or situationally able).
- 'Kann' means 'can' and is used with 'ich', 'sie', 'er', 'es'. 'Du kannst' means 'you can'.
- Modal verbs such as 'können' require a 2nd verb in the infinitive, placed at the end of the sentence.
Keywords
[au] - pronounced as in 'Haus'
Modal verb - verb of necessity or possibility (must, can, want) used with a 2nd verb in the infinitive, which goes to the end
Können - a modal verb meaning 'to be able to'
Common misconception
The infinitive comes directly after the form of 'können', as in English: 'I can play guitar'.
The infinitive comes at the end of the sentence in German when used with a modal verb such as 'können', as in 'Ich kann Gitarre spielen'.
To help you plan your year 7 german lesson on: Can and able: singular 'können' + infinitive, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 7 german lesson on: Can and able: singular 'können' + infinitive, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 german lessons from the Friends and family: weak and strong verbs singular and 3rd person plural unit, dive into the full secondary german curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Starter quiz
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Exit quiz
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