Parts of Speech You Can Touch

Please note: The grammar rules, spelling conventions, and examples in this article refer specifically to the German language and are intended for use in German-language primary school classrooms.

Parts of speech are abstract — until you can hold them in your hand. The Word Class Library is a compact card system that helps children in Years 2 to 4 not only name German nouns, verbs, adjectives, articles, personal pronouns, and prepositions, but truly understand and apply them in everyday language use.

What's inside?

The library consists of six cards — one for each part of speech. Each card summarises the key features, recognition cues, and child-friendly examples in a clear, accessible format. The set is designed as a ring library: print, laminate, punch a hole, thread a keyring through — done. The result is a personal reference tool that children can keep close at hand.

Three design variants

The material is available in three versions: a coloured design for vibrant classrooms, a black-and-white version for economical printing, and a neutral version for teachers who prefer to add their own colours. The Word Class Library fits every learning environment.

Differentiation from Year 2 to Year 4

In Year 2, most children begin with the four basic word classes: nouns, articles, verbs, and adjectives. The cards can be used flexibly — give children only the cards that match their current learning level. Years 3 and 4 gradually add personal pronouns and prepositions. The set grows with the learner.

For the classroom, for support, and at home

The Word Class Library works equally well in regular classroom lessons, in support sessions, and for homework. Children who frequently forget or confuse word classes benefit especially from having their personal library within reach. The format is also ideal for independent study — no flipping through textbooks, no searching through exercise books.