Language Levels

The curriculum is following the guidelines set by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, that was put together by the Council of Europe. It is widely used in Europe to describe achievements of users of foreign languages. The Common European Framework divides foreign language users into three broad divisions (Basic:A, Independent:B, Proficient:C - which can be divided into six levels: A1,A2,B1,B2,C1,C2. A description of each level follows:

Proficient User C2 (Advanced.)

Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstruct arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

Proficient User C1 (Advanced)

Can understand a wide range of demanding, long texts, and recognize implicit meaning. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for the proper expression. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed texts covering complex subjects.

Independent User B2 (Intermediate)

Can understand the main ideas presented within various complex text regarding concrete and abstract topics as well, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialization. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strains for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint of a specific topic giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

Independent User B1 (Intermediate)

Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst traveling in an area where a language is spoken. Can produce simple coherent texts on topics which may be familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

Basic User A2 (Beginner)

Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks, requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of his/her background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need.

Basic User A1 (Beginner)

Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where s/he lives, people s/he knows and things s/he owes. S/he can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.

Source: Council of Europe, European Language Portfolio.

For further information please see Reference Level Descriptions for national or regional languages.