Understanding messages in a language that is not one’s native tongue can be a challenge. Especially when it comes to complex topics, many people find it difficult to grasp the content quickly. For this reason, there is news in easy-to-understand language.
These news items are specially designed for people who are learning German as a foreign language or have difficulty understanding complex texts. The content is adapted to B1 and A2 language levels to ensure easy comprehension.
However, the news is not only suitable for language learners, but also appeals to people with low levels of education or learning difficulties. The clear structure and simple vocabulary make the messages easy to grasp and internalize.
Easy-to-understand news not only helps people learn the language, but also helps them follow current events. It makes it possible for non-native speakers to stay informed and actively participate in social discourse.
Overall, easy-to-understand news is an important component in the media landscape that serves an important function: Allowing people with different language backgrounds or levels of education to participate in current events.
Why is news in simple language important?
One of the most important rules in journalistic ethics is to present information in a language that can be understood by a broad readership. This is where plain language news comes in, specifically designed to minimize the use of jargon and complicated expressions.
The goal of plain language messaging is to ensure that all people have access to the most important information, regardless of their language level or educational background. This is especially important for people who are learning German as a second language or have difficulty reading and understanding complex texts.
Using simple language in news also has the advantage that it can be understood more quickly and effectively, thus reaching more people. Clear communication is crucial for shaping public opinion and making people aware of political decisions. In addition, using simple language in news stories can help build readers’ trust in the media.
In summary, the use of simple language in messages is important to ensure that all people have access to key information. News in simple language is an effective way to present complex topics and reach a wide audience.
Simple language in the messages for comprehensibility
In news, it is important that every reader or viewer understands everything. Therefore, for people with little knowledge of German, there are messages written or spoken in a simpler language. These news items are easy to understand for people with B1 or A2 language level.
Simple language is characterized by short sentences and simple words. There are fewer technical terms and complicated grammar. The goal is to convey the content as clearly and simply as possible.
Another way to make news easy to understand is to use pictures and graphics. These can complement and clarify the text. Tables can also be used to present facts clearly.
- Simple language in the news is important so that everyone understands everything
- It is characterized by short sentences and simple words
- Pictures and graphics can support the content
- Tables are one way to present facts clearly
Which news agencies offer news in simple language?
There are a number of news outlets that cater specifically to the needs of people with limited language understanding. For example, the news agencies dpa and AFP offer a special category in which news is published in simple language. These are specially formulated to be easier to understand and to reach people with limited understanding of language. The agencies mainly target people at language levels B1 and A2.
In addition to the major news agencies, there are also smaller companies that specialize in writing easy-to-understand news stories. An example of this is the news agency Capito, which specializes in writing news in simple language. These are especially for people with learning difficulties and are adapted accordingly.
The news agencies primarily target people with limited language comprehension, people with a migration background or people with learning difficulties. The texts are adapted accordingly and mainly short sentences and simple formulations are used. This makes it possible to present even complex topics in an understandable way.
- dpa
- AFP
- Capito
Five tips for improving comprehension of news in simple language
The news can often be difficult to understand, especially when read in German. But there are some steps you can take to improve your understanding of plain language messages, especially if you are at B1 and A2 language levels.
- Read the news regularly – If you read through the news regularly, your understanding of difficult topics will improve over time. It is also advisable to read different articles from different sources and also to read up on regional or local news.
- Use a dictionary – if you don’t understand a word, look it up in a dictionary. A dictionary not only helps you learn a new word, but it also helps improve your overall understanding of the article.
- Break the article into sections – If you have trouble understanding a longer article, try breaking it into shorter sections and take your time reading them one at a time.
- Remain patient – understanding and language do not improve overnight. Be patient and work slowly but steadily to improve your understanding.
- Watch news in German – In addition to reading news, it can be helpful to watch news in German. Listening to a native speaker can help improve your understanding of pronunciation and speech melody.
By following these steps, reading and understanding plain language messages in German can become easier for you.