Key learning points

1. German uses the simple present tense, formed by removing the '-en' from the infinitive and adding verb endings.
2. Separable verbs are made up of a prefix and a main verb. In the present, the prefix moves to the end of the clause.
3. In word order three (WO3) clauses, the prefix and verb join up in separable verbs.
4. Possessive adjectives are used with nouns to show ownership or belonging. They must agree with the noun which follows.
5. Use the possessive adjective 'sein' with masculine or neuter nouns to mean 'its'; use 'ihr' with feminine nouns.

Keywords

• Present tense - refers to actions that occur in the present time

• Separable verb - a two-part verb, with a prefix and a main verb, e.g., 'einkaufen'

• Sein - possessive adjective meaning 'his', 'its'

• Ihr - possessive adjective meaning 'her', 'its', 'their'

Common misconception