Common European Framework of Levels

Our courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

The table below explains each level:

Level

CEFR Definition

Beginners 1

A1(i)

Beginners 2

A1(i) or (ii)

Beginners 3/False Beginner

A1(ii)

Pre-intermediate 1

A2(i)

Pre-intermediate 2

A2 (i) or (ii)

Pre-intermediate 3

A2(ii)

Intermediate 1

B1(i)

Intermediate 2

B1(i) or (ii)

Intermediate 3

B1(ii)

Upper Intermediate (low)

B2(i)

Upper Intermediate (high)

B2(ii)

Advanced

C1 (i) and above

A1i and A1ii Level (Elementary Levels)

There are three terms (semesters) throughout the year. Each semester provide 24 hours of tuition, either over 12 or 8 weeks depending on the time of year, and correspond to the levels outlined above.  Students starting at A1i level, will be in a position to move to A1ii  level after one semester.

Courses at A1i or A1ii can be taken during either our 12 week or 8 week terms.  Learners who complete these classes have reached a language level of A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, indicating the ability to use the language at an elementary level.

At the end of the course you should be able to:

  • Understand and use familiar everyday expressions and basic phrases.
  • Introduce yourself and others and ask and answer questions about personal details.
  • Interact in a simple way with native speakers

As well as speaking, further goals intended for those who complete and pass A1 include:

Reading

  • Understanding the general idea of simple informational texts and short simple descriptions, especially if they contain pictures which help to explain the text.
  • Understanding very short, simple texts, putting together familiar names, words and basic phrases, by for example rereading parts of the text.
  • Following short, simple written instructions, especially if they contain pictures.
  • Recognising familiar names, words and very simple phrases on simple notices in the most common everyday situations.
  • Understanding short, simple messages, e.g. on postcards.

Writing

  • Writing simple notes to friends.
  • Describing where you live.
  • Filling in forms with personal details.
  • Writing simple isolated phrases and sentences.
  • Writing a short simple postcard.
  • Writing short letters and messages with the help of a dictionary.

Listening

  • Understanding everyday expressions dealing with simple and concrete everyday needs, in clear, slow and repeated speech.
  • Following speech which is very slow and carefully articulated, with long pauses to assist with comprehension.
  • Understanding questions and instructions and following short, simple directions.
  • Understanding numbers, prices and times.

A2i and A2ii  Level (Pre-Intermediate Levels)

There are three terms (semesters) throughout the year. Each semester provides 24 hours of tuition, either over 12 or 8 weeks depending on the time of year and correspond to the levels outlined above.  Students starting at A2i level, will be in a position to move to A2ii  level after one semester.

At the end of the course you should be able to:

  • Understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment).
  • Communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.
  • Describe in simple terms aspects of you background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need

As well as speaking, further goals intended for those who complete and pass A2 include:

Reading

  • Understanding short, simple texts containing the most common words, including some shared international words.
  • Understanding short, simple texts written in common everyday language.
  • Understanding short simple texts related to you job.
  • Finding specific information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, brochures, menus and timetables.
  • Identifying specific information in simple written material such as letters, brochures and short newspaper articles describing events.
  • Understanding short simple personal letters.
  • Understanding standard routine letters and faxes on familiar topics.
  • Understanding simple instructions on equipment encountered in everyday life –such as a public telephone.
  • Understanding everyday signs and notices in public places, such as streets, restaurants, railway stations and in workplaces.

Writing

  • Giving short, basic descriptions of events and activities.
  • Writing very simple personal letters expressing thanks and apology.
  • Write short, simple notes and messages relating to matters of everyday life.
  • Describing plans and arrangements.
  • Explaining what you like or dislike about something.
  • Describing my family, living conditions, schooling, present or most recent job.
  • Describing past activities and personal experiences.
  • Writing very brief reports, which pass on routine factual

Listening

  • Understanding enough to manage simple, routine exchanges without too much effort.
  • Being able to identify the topic of discussion around you which is being conducted slowly and clearly.
  • Being able to understand clear, standard speech on familiar matters.
  • Understanding enough to be able to meet concrete needs in everyday life provided speech is clear and slow.
  • Understanding phrases and expressions related to immediate needs.
  • Handling simple business in shops, post offices or banks.
  • Understanding simple directions relating to how to get from X to Y, by foot or public transport.
  • Understanding the essential information from short recorded passages dealing with predictable everyday matters which are spoken slowly and clearly.
  • Identifying the main point of TV news items reporting events, accidents, etc, where the visual material supports the commentary.
  • Catching the main point in short, clear, simple messages and announcements.