Language skills are defined in terms of levels of proficiency presented in the document “A Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment.”

For further information, guidance and the proficiency levels of across a range of languages, please see the Council of Europe web site:

www.coe.int/portfolio

A: Basic Knowledge

A1 – Breakthrough

A2 – Waystage

B: Independent User

B1 – Threshold

B2 – Vantage

C: Experienced User

C1 – Effective Operational Proficiency

C2 – Mastery

A1

Can understand familiar words and very basic simple phrases about everyday life or familiar topics. Can introduce himself and tell about himself, his family, the place he lives, the people he knows and some other very familiar topics, as well as he can ask and answer simple questions about these topics. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person speaks slowly, clearly and is prepared to help. Can write a short, very simple text and can fill in forms with personal details.

A2.

Can understand simple sentences and the highest frequency phrases related to everyday life, e.g., information about himself and his family, shopping, local area, employment, as well as can ask and answer questions. Can communicate in simple everyday situations requiring a simple exchange of information on familiar topics. Can tell in simple sentences about himself, his family, local area, his educational background, his present or previous job. Can write very simple notes and very simple letter.

B1

Can understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar topics related to work, school, leisure time, etc. can understand texts that contain mainly high frequency everyday or job-related language. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken and can enter unprepared into conversation on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.. Can write simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences, events and wishes, as well as provide a short justification and explanation of his own viewpoint and ambitions.

B2

Can understand the main ideas in difficult texts on both concrete and abstract topics, including discussion in his professional area. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity with native speakers. Can present clear and detailed descriptions on a wide range of topics, related to his field of interest, sustaining his views, giving the advantages and disadvantages. Can write clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects related to his interests, highlighting the most significant issues.

C1

Can understand a wide range of difficult extended texts and speeches and understand the subtext. Can understand television programmes and films without too much effort. Can express himself appropriately and effectively for social, educational and professional purposes. Can express himself in clear, well-structured text, expressing his points of view in a style appropriate to the reader in mind.

C2

Has no difficulty in understanding any kind of spoken or written language. Reconstructing different arguments and viewpoints, can summarise information from various verbal and written sources and present it in a coherent way. Can express himself clearly, fluently and precisely, conveying finer shades of meaning, in any conversation or discussion even in complicated situations. Can write clear text with logical structure in an appropriate style.