You may have noticed labels such as A1, B2 or C1 if you have ever researched learning a language. These are not random codes, they are referencing something called the CEFR, or Common European Framework of reference of Languages. It is a globally applied system to determine the effectiveness of a person in terms of speaking, understanding, reading, or writing a foreign language.
Here in this blog, we are going to divide into what CEFR is, its importance, the levels of CEFR, and in which countries it is implemented. Be it the desire to work in the new country, the need to study in Europe, or just wishing to know another language, this guide will help you to get going.
What Is CEFR?
CEFR is an abbreviation of Common Europe Framework of Reference to Languages. The Council of Europe produced it so that there could be a clear and consistent method of measuring the language ability amongst the countries.
Consider CEFR as a global measuring rod of language performance. Whether you are learning French or German or Spanish or any other European language, it does not matter. CEFR levels are universal.
What Is so Important about CEFR to Language Learners?
CEFR is not only a method to describe your ability. It is a norm that is recognized by schools, homes of work, immigration and universities in most localities of the world.
The reason why CEFR is helpful is as follows:
- Universal Acceptance: CEFR levels are accepted in all the universities and businesses across Europe and Canada to even portions of Asia and Australia.
- Study or Work in another country: Lots of courses and work visas require having a specified CEFR level.
- Clear Roadmap: It presents you with an idea of where you are and what you have to settle next.
Outline of CEFR Languages levels
There are six levels in CEFR carrying three categories:
Basic user: A1 and A2
Stand-Alone User: B1 and B2
Advanced: C1 and C2
I would like to examine them step by step.
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A1 Level
A1 is the first step in a foreign language.
At A1 you can perform the following:
Greetings, Salutations.
Simple questions ask and answer.
Discuss the weather, or family and work.
Learn to read slow and clear speech.
The example here is that you visit a bakery in France and say, Un croissant, s, il vous plaist. A1 hard at work!
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A2 Level
Things start to be clearer at A2.
What you were able to do at A2:
Manage ordinary daily activities.
Speak about present, future, and past.
Arrange simple travelling plans.
Learn the most basic linguistic bits.
Example: You may make a reservation with a hotel in Germany by phoning.
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B1 Level
B1 is the case when you are becoming more independent.
Sou, what you will be able to do at B1:
Discuss work, school and leisure activities.
Appreciate the key messages in the news or interviews.
Write short notes or mails.
Use case: Canada and several other countries create a demand of B1 level French knowledge to immigrate or occupy a position.
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B2 Level
At B2 you are pretty sure what to do or what not to do in most situations with little assistance.
What you can do at B 2:
Present opinions, and argue.
Read technical articles as well as newspapers.
Go to conferences and prepare reports.
Applications: France or German Universities can require B2-level skills in language to be enrolled. The exams such as DELF B2 or Goethe B2 correspond to this level.
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C1 level
C1 is the level that you speak and sound like a native speaker.
At C1 what you can do:
Learn the television shows, books, and podcasts.
Talk straight even of abstract things.
Write an article or letter with little interference of grammatical errors.
Model: Understanding a professional entity without being able to translate is a task you can engage in work or study.
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C2 Level
The highest level is C2. It translates as you have almost mastered the language.
What you can do at C 2:
Know what you hear or read.
Talk very fluently and accurately.
Apply idioms and cultural isotopes the right way.
Note: Not all persons require attaining C2 everyone can use B2 or C1 in most cases in academic or work-related areas.
International Language Exams and CEFR
A number of language tests are CEFR oriented. These include:
French Exams:
DELF/DALF: French diplomas authorized by the ministry of French education.
TEF/TCF: The immigration to Canada and France.
German Exams:
Goethe-Zertifikat: Offered by the Goethe-Institut for A1 to C2 levels.
These tests are indicative of which CEFR level they correspond to. That is why, when you are applying to university or to a visa, you know which one to take.
What are the Countries that Recognize CEFR?
The CEFR structure holds validity in more than 40 nations, and more specifically:
Europe:
France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Netherlands amongst others
The European Union is the one where all countries even in education and migration adhere to the CEFR
Canada:
Express Entry and study permit (French especially) accept CEFR levels
New Zealand and Australia:
Some universities and training programs take note of it
Asia:
Programs aligned to CEFR find their way to India, Japan, South Korea, and China
The Way to Quickly Go through CEFR Levels
It is not only a matter of time but smart learning when we move A1 to B2. The following are some of the tips:
- Speak As Much As You Can:Do not learn the grammar only. You can talk, you can talk, make mistakes.
- Make Small Goals: Do not get many levels at once.
- Real Content: See movies, read, listen to newscasts or podcasts in the target language.
- Enroll in a CEFR-Aligned Class: To have a certain way of measuring and focusing your progress.
Estimates on time :
A1 to A2: 2 3 months
A2-B1: 3 4 months
B1 to B2: 4-5 months
Global Tongue (CEFR- Aligned) Language Learning
All the French and German classes we offer at Global Tongue are formulated on the base adopted by CEFR. What distinguishes our approach is the following:
- Learners Get trained by certified C2 level or native trainers
- Small Batches: Personalised Care in Each Class
- Real-Life Speaking Practice: Theory and not only theory Real-life speaking practice
- Exam-Oriented Prep: We prepare you to DELF, DALF, TCF, TEF and Goethe amongst others
- Fast-Track Courses: 7-8 months to A1 to B2 see-through
- Upside Down University: 3000+ students and an increasing network of people around the globe
Alternatively, whether you are a beginner or a student who wants a B2 level to work, study abroad, or pass the PR procedure, we ensure your course runs in a smooth way and according to CEFR.
