A Test, Ducks & Conjugation

I wanted to run this by German language educators and learners and get your thoughts. (See below.)

As I was looking for a Eselsbrücke (donkey bridge), to help German students with present tense, regular verb conjugation.

• Note: Eselsbrücke (“donkey bridge”) is the German word that refers to any mnemonic device or phrase that is used to remember facts or information. 

Despite receiving a healthy amount of input, I notice that (some) of my students need – and ask for – a little more support to fully get the endings. So, I came up with this “verb chart” to help facilitate the learning process. (I essentially moved the pronouns around from the standard order.)

Here are my thoughts:

• T-E-ST = singular pronouns (& the word “test” is a singular noun)
  
• EN-T-EN (German word for ducks = Enten) = plural pronouns (& the word “Enten” (ducks) is a plural noun.
  
• Plus, it allows me to tell my students that conjugation in German is nothing more than “a test and ducks“.

Note: I try not to convolute grammar too much. So, I incorporate “pop up” grammar when it is appropriate. For example, if we are reading something and we come across this sentence – Er schwimmt gern. – I may ask something quick and simple like: “Why is there a “t” at the end of the verb schwimmt?”

However, here are some things you could say with the above “chart” to help build a Eselsbrücke (donkey bridge):

• I am icky. (ich-e)
• You are dust. (du-st)
• To help with the order of the plural pronouns:
  • We are the head of the duck. (wir – en)
  • You (all) are the middle of the duck. (ihr – t)
  • They are the feet of the duck. (sie – en)

German Language Educators and Learners: Please share your thoughts in the comments below!

• Do you think it is helpful in this order?
• Or, do you think it is not helpful, as students will most likely encounter the “standard verb chart order” more often as they move through their studies with different educators?
• Any other thoughts / comments?

Danke!