Different ways of asking the same question...

I am learning that in German that there are times when you can ask the same question in two different ways such as " Do you speak German?" Is there times when one uses a different way to ask this question as opposed to another? Also is there a good resource to help me work on my German writing because German letters are not as intuitive to write because of the different sounds of the English letters and different grammar structure of both languages. Thanks.

Hi John, I'm not sure exactly what you mean. Lesson 3.7 explains asking questions. Just as in English you can ask a question just by the tone of your voice, e.g. "you speak German?" Perhaps you are asking when to use the formal versus informal mode of address. You will learn that too early on in your lessons. Regarding writing, there are many sources on in the internet, and I'm sure there are also German grammar and composition books available. However, you will get the basic rules of grammar and sentence structure as you go through your lessons, particularly in the Language and Culture sections. If you feel you need to dig a little deeper on a particular point of grammar just do a web search and you will find plenty of resources to supplement the lessons. Hope this helps a little,

Hello John, Can you give me an example of the question types you would like to have explained. I am not sure I understand what you mean. If you are not sure what terms to use in German letters I'll be happy to help you. I can translate for you or give you examples for typical phrases if you tell me what sort of letters you would like compose. Typical phrases to end a letter in German for example are: Grüße=Greetings Gruß=Regards Liebe Grüße / Lieben Gruß = Lovely Greetings Alles Gute = All the best Mit freundlichen Grüßen= With friendly greetings "Bis dann!" in the meaning of "so long!" Paul