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Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)


Levels of language proficiency according to the Council of Europe

The aims of the general language courses are described in terms of the Common European Framework of Reference developed by the Council of Europe. Below is an overview of the various levels.

 

Conversation

Speaking

Listening

Writing

Reading

C2 

You can participate in any type of conversation without any trouble.

You have mastered fixed expressions and can express yourself fluently.

You can indicate minor differences in opinions and mask any problems so that they are not noticed.

You can give a clear description or reasoning which fits the context and point out new insights or focal points in a logical structure.

You can provide a clear, fluent description or reasoning in a style that fits the context and has an effective structure, so that the listener can note and remember the main points.

You have no trouble understanding any type of spoken language, be it direct communication or text broadcast via the media, if you are given some time to familiarize yourself with the accent.

You can write a clear and well-structured text.

You can write complex letters, reports and articles in a logical structure.

You have no trouble reading any type of text: abstract texts, manuscripts, literature and specialist articles.

C1

You can express yourself fluently without having to search for expressions very often.

You can use the language flexibly and effectively on social and professional levels.

You can effectively phrase your ideas and opinions and proficiently contribute to a conversation.

You can provide clear, detailed descriptions of complex topics and integrate subthemes, develop specific points of view and round off with an appropriate conclusion.

You understand most of the spoken language, even if it not well structured and if connections are only hinted at.

You understand TV programmes and films without much effort.

You can express your ideas by means of well-structured texts and state your points of view in detail.

You can explain complex topics in detail in a letter, essay or report.

You can write various types of texts in a personal style, adapted to the intended reader.

You understand long and complex business and literary texts.

You understand specialist articles and extensive technical instructions, even if they do not relate to your field of work.

 

 

Conversation

Speaking

Listening

Writing

Reading

B2

You can participate fluently in conversations with native speakers.

You can participate actively in discussions about familiar themes and give your opinion.

You can give a clear, detailed description of various topics that are related to your fields of interest.

You can provide clear, detailed descriptions about various topics that are related to your fields of interest.

You can express your opinion on a current topic and explain the pros and cons of various options.

You can understand a lengthy conversation, lecture or complex reasoning if the topic is relatively familiar.

You understand news and current affairs programmes on television.

You understand most of the films in standard language.

You can write a clear text about topics that interest you.

You can write an essay or report, pass on information or defend an opinion.

You can write letters about personal experiences or events.

You understand articles and reports about current affairs in which the author takes a stand or articulates an opinion.

You understand modern literary prose.

B1

You can cope with most everyday situations when you are in the target country.

You can participate without preparation in conversations about familiar topics and everyday life (family, hobbies, work, travel, current affairs)

You can connect sentences in a simple manner, so that you can describe experiences, events, your dreams, hopes and ambitions.

You can give short reasons and explanations for your ideas and opinions.

You can tell a story or relate the plot of a book or film and give your opinion about it.

You can connect expressions in a simple manner, so that you can describe experiences, events, your dreams, hopes and ambitions.

You can give short reasons and explanations for your opinions and plans. You can tell a story or relate the plot of a book or film and describe your reactions to it.

You understand the main points of a conversation about personal matters, family, work, school and spare time.

You understand the main points of radio or television programmes about current affairs that interest you if the speaker speaks relatively slowly and clearly.

You can write simple texts about familiar or personally relevant topics.

You can write personal letters describing your experiences or impressions.

You understand texts consisting mainly of familiar, everyday or work-related language.

You understand descriptions of events, feelings and wishes in personal letters.

 

 

 

Conversation

Speaking

Listening

Writing

Reading

A2

You can participate in simple conversations and exchange simple and straightforward information about familiar topics and activities.

You can participate in short social conversations about topics such as relatives or hobbies, but you may not understand enough to keep the conversation going.

You can talk about your family, education, place of residence and current work situation in simple terms.

You can use various expressions and sentences to describe your family and other people, your living conditions, education and most recent job.

You understand the most common words and sentences that relate to personal matters such as family, shopping and work.

You understand the main points in short, clear and simple messages and announcements.

You can write a short letter or note about urgent matters.

You can write a simple personal letter, for example to thank someone for something.

You can read short, simple texts.

You can extract specific, predictable information from simple texts such as advertisements, menus and timetables.

You understand short personal letters.

A1

You can participate in a simple conversation about familiar topics if your partner is prepared to speak slowly, repeat things and help you formulate what you are trying to say.

You can ask and answer simple questions about very familiar topics.

You can describe your living situation and people you know by means of simple expressions and sentences.

You recognise familiar words and simple sentences related to yourself and your direct surroundings, if people speak slowly and clearly.

You can write a short, simple message, for example a holiday postcard.

You can fill in your personal details on a form.

You can read and understand familiar words and simple sentences, for example in notes, on posters and in catalogues.

 


Last modified:May 25, 2011 13:10
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