by Keisha Centa Putri
Have you ever wondered why English proficiency levels are divided into categories like A1, A2, and so on? At first glance, it might seem unimportant or even feel like a limitation or a divide. In reality, these levels can help you and your educator to understand the areas that you are proficient in and skills you need to further improve.
So, what exactly does these levels mean?
These levels are known as the CEFR, or the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. The CEFR is an international standard used to assess a person’s language proficiency based on their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
The CEFR divides English language proficiency into six levels. A1 is the most basic level, at this stage, learners can understand and use everyday phrases, comprehend simple, short texts and audio, and also introduce themselves. Next is A2, which is still at the beginner level, but learners can already engage in basic conversations on common topics such as family, shopping, or daily routines.
Upon reaching the B1 level, learners have entered the intermediate level and can handle most everyday situations, express opinions, and understand the main points of clear speech. Level B2 is an even more advanced level, as learners can communicate more naturally and fluently, discuss more specific and spontaneous topics, using a variety of more advanced phrases and idioms, and read fairly complex or lengthy texts.
Finally, C2 is the highest level, at which learners have the ability to understand most of what they read or hear with ease or minimal effort, and respond spontaneously and accurately, even in complex situations. In other words, when you reach C2 level, you are nearly at a native level.
By knowing your language proficiency level, as a learner you can clearly understand the structure and progression needed to improve, rather than studying haphazardly. You can start by choosing classes or materials that match your level, so you won’t be overwhelmed by material that’s too difficult or, conversely, get bored and fail to improve with material that’s too easy. This way, you can set realistic and achievable goals and track your progress more easily over time.
To assess your level and begin improving, you can select one of these two options: online tests and official exams. Online tests are the easiest and fastest option; they’re usually free and available on the internet such as ascent.ai. However, they’re more like self-assessments and may not be as accurate as official exams, such as the EF Set and British Council tests.
For tests that are far more accurate and verified, you can take official exams, such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English Tests, which are standardized and frequently used for immigration, study, or employment purposes. Although it costs quite a bit, these exams provide more detailed scores and can be aligned with CEFR levels.
In conclusion, English proficiency levels are not a limitation but a helpful guide in the learning process. Start by focusing on one skill at a time, for example, speaking for one week, and use materials that are slightly above your level to make it more challenging and help you improve. Set small but realistic goals, such as learning 10 new vocabulary words each day or trying to give a one-minute speech in English every day. By understanding your skill level, continuing to study diligently, and using the right learning resources, progress in language acquisition will be gradual but achievable.
Source:
- Cambridge English. (n.d.). International language standards. Cambridge English. https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams-and-tests/cefr/
- British Council. (n.d.). Free English online level test. British Council. https://englishonline.britishcouncil.org/free-english-level-test-cefr-2/
- British Council. (n.d.). Understand your English level. British Council. https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/level/understand-your-english-level
- EF SET. (n.d.). The CEFR and EF SET. EF SET https://www.efset.org/cefr/
- EF SET. (n.d.). English level A1. EF SET. https://www.efset.org/cefr/a1/
- EF SET. (n.d.). English level A2. EF SET. https://www.efset.org/cefr/a2/
- EF SET. (n.d.). English level B1. EF SET. https://www.efset.org/cefr/b1/
- EF SET. (n.d.). English level B2. EF SET. https://www.efset.org/cefr/b2/
- EF SET. (n.d.). English level C1. EF SET. https://www.efset.org/cefr/c1/
- EF SET. (n.d.). English level C2. EF SET. https://www.efset.org/cefr/c2/
