Zentrale Mittelstufenprüfung (ZMP)

This is an examination at an advanced level, requiring competence in all the language skills. It is recognised as fulfilling the language entry requirement for technical colleges and Studienkollegs in Germany.

Reading

Candidates are expected to understand four authentic non-fictional texts on topics of general interest. They are expected to demonstrate a variety of reading skills including skimming, scanning and distinguishing opinions from factual information. They must also be able to complete a summary which takes the form of a cloze test. Texts are taken from newspapers, magazines, leaflets, books, etc.

There are thirty items of the following task types: matching, multiple-choice, gap-filling, true/false.

Writing

Candidates are expected to complete two writing tasks. The first task is a free writing task, the second is a guided transformation of an informal letter into formal register.

In the first task candidates demonstrate their ability to write non-specialist texts expressing opinions and giving information related to their personal experiences. They are expected to take into account a defined audience and purpose. A choice of three topics is given, from which candidates must select one. Candidates should write approx. 200 words.

Listening

Candidates are expected to understand two non-fictional texts. There are two parts to this test.

Part 1 consists of a conversation which lasts about two minutes, Part 2 of a radio broadcast lasting about ten minutes. Candidates hear the text in Part 1 only once, the text in Part 2 twice. There is a total of 30 items.

Candidates are required to take notes on factual information, and to understand the gist as well as specific details. There are two item types: short answer and multiple-choice.

Speaking

Candidates are tested individually by two examiners. They are expected to participate actively in a conversation on topics of general interest. They should be able to display a range of communicative skills, including the ability to describe, narrate, make proposals, and to express opinions and ideas in a logical and structured way.

The first task consists of looking at two photographs and discussing the topic with the examiners.

This task is followed by a problem-solving task with a visual or written prompt.

Weighting of components

Each component is equally weighted at 25% of the total marks.

Results

There are four pass grades: sehr gut (very good), gut (good), befriedigend (satisfactory) and ausreichend (pass). Certificates are awarded to all successful candidates.