Wortstellung im Satz & TEKAMOLO
Sentence structure, verb position and the TEKAMOLO order. This detailed lesson includes explanations, model sentences, common error guidance, written practice and a self-checking quiz. Work through the sections in order, then practise producing your own examples.
Estimated study time: 25–40 minutes · Level: B2 · German examples with English support
Learning objectives
Understand the rule
Identify the structure, meaning and typical word order for this B2 grammar topic.
Use it accurately
Notice verb position, case, endings, punctuation and the relationship between clauses.
Produce original examples
Adapt the model sentences to your own study, work and everyday situations.
Check your learning
Complete the practice tasks and quiz. Review the explanations for any answer you miss.
1. The finite verb: the anchor of the sentence
In a normal German main clause, the conjugated verb usually occupies position 2. “Position 2” means the second sentence element, not necessarily the second word.
In yes/no questions, the finite verb normally comes first. In subordinate clauses introduced by words such as weil, dass or obwohl, the conjugated verb generally moves to the end.
2. What TEKAMOLO means
TEKAMOLO is a useful learning aid for ordering adverbials: Temporal (when), Kausal (why), Modal (how/by what means), Lokal (where). It is a tendency, not an inflexible law. Information focus, contrast and the type of phrase can change the order.
A typical pattern is: subject + finite verb + time + reason + manner + place. Avoid treating the acronym as a rule that overrides every other grammatical or communicative consideration.
3. Inversion and the first position
Only one sentence element normally stands before the finite verb in a declarative main clause. If a time phrase is placed first, the subject usually follows the verb: “Morgen fährt Lena nach Berlin.”
A long phrase can occupy the first position as one element. The verb still remains in second position.
4. Verb brackets and sentence endings
In perfect tense, modal constructions and separable verbs, the finite verb often appears early and the other verb part later: “Sie hat gestern lange gearbeitet.” / “Er ruft dich morgen an.”
In subordinate clauses, the verb group moves to the end: “…, weil sie gestern lange gearbeitet hat.”
Model examples and close reading
Read the German sentence first, identify the target structure, then compare the English meaning and note the reason for the form.
The time phrase is first; the finite verb stays in second position.
A typical TEKAMOLO order is time, manner, place.
The conjugated modal verb moves to the end of the subordinate clause.
A fronted time phrase is followed by the finite verb, then the subject.
Practice exercises
Write a complete German answer in each field. The checker compares your answer with a model solution and ignores differences in capitalisation and extra spaces. Alternative wording may be correct even if it is not recognised automatically; compare it with the model and explanation.
Study tip: after checking, cover the model and write the sentence again from memory. Then create one new example of your own.
Knowledge check: interactive quiz
Choose one answer for each question, then select “Check quiz” to see your score and explanations.
1. Which sentence follows standard main-clause word order?
2. Where is the finite verb normally placed in a weil-clause?
3. In TEKAMOLO, what does the first T stand for?
4. Which order is the usual TEKAMOLO tendency?
5. Choose the correct sentence.
Independent production task
Writing challenge: Write a short paragraph of 80–120 words about learning, work, travel or a social issue. Use this lesson’s grammar structure at least three times. Underline the target forms and check the sentence structure, punctuation and meaning.
Speaking challenge: Explain the same topic aloud for one minute. Record yourself if possible, then note one accurate sentence and one sentence you want to improve.
Self-assessment checklist
- I can explain the purpose of this structure in my own words.
- I can recognise it in a written German text.
- I can form at least three original examples.
- I checked word order, case, endings and punctuation.
- I can correct at least one common error.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this lesson suitable for B2 learners?
It is designed as B2-level grammar practice. Learners may benefit from revising relevant A2/B1 structures before moving to more complex examples.
Are the exercises an official Goethe-Zertifikat test?
No. These are original practice materials for learning and revision, not official Goethe-Institut exam questions. Use them alongside the current official exam format and course materials.
Why does the quiz checker sometimes not accept my answer?
The automated checker uses model answers and a small set of accepted alternatives. German may allow other correct phrasings; compare your sentence with the rule and explanation rather than assuming every unrecognised answer is grammatically wrong.