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In assessing language skills, we use the level scale based on
the Common European Framework
of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It divides language proficiency
into three sections:
- A1 and A2: Basic User
- B1 and B2: Independent User
- C1 and C2: Proficient User
For example, the goal of first foreign language studies in
Finnish High School is a level of B2.
In working life, one can get by with a level of B1, but for more
demanding tasks a skill level of B2
or C1 is necessary.
The descriptions of language proficiency in the CEFR framework are
based on general language proficiency and not for language and
communication skills for specialist fields such as industry,
commerce or business.
Basic level
A1 - Understands from slow and clear speech
simple basic expressions that are directly related to the learner's
own life or concern the immediate concrete environment. Is able to
retrieve information from simple texts. Copes with the very
simplest speech situations, but speech is slow and very disjointed,
with defective pronunciation. Is capable of writing extremely short
texts that contain numerous linguistic defects. Knows the very
commonest basic vocabulary and some basic grammatical
structures.
A2 - Understands clear and simplified speech
dealing with everyday, familiar matters. Understands with ease
short, simple messages and gets the gist of texts dealing with
familiar topics. Copes with routine speech situations requiring
simple exchange of information, even though pronunciation is still
defective. Is capable of writing concise, simple texts about
everyday matters, but the text may be fragmented. Has a command of
the simplest basic grammar and key basic vocabulary.
Intermediate level
B1 - Understands longer stretches of speech and
the central idea from many TV and radio programmes, if the topic
area is relatively familiar. Understands ordinary texts that do not
require knowledge of the subject. In the case of a longer section
of speech and an unfamiliar topic, normal tempo speech and more
demanding texts may cause difficulties. Can cope in the most common
speech situations and is able to write simple, coherent text on
everyday topics, even though grammatical and lexical inaccuracies
may occasionally hinder comprehension. Has a good command of
vocabulary related to everyday situations and of the key basic
grammar structures.
B2 - Understands normal tempo speech in
face-to-face situations and discussion on general topics; also
understands speech from, for example, TV and radio, but some
details may not be understood. Rapid spoken language and dialectal
variations, however, cause difficulties. Has no difficulty
understanding texts dealing with general topics, although some
nuances conveyed in the text may not be clear. Copes fairly well
even in less familiar speech situations. Is able to write both
private and semi-official texts and to express thoughts as a
coherent whole. Makes a distinction in speech and writing between
official and unofficial forms of language. Has a good command of
basic grammar and vocabulary.
Advanced level
C1 - Understands longer sections of speech at
normal speed in face-to-face situations and from TV
and radio, even though comprehension sometimes requires a certain
amount of effort. Understands structurally and linguistically
complex texts and literature of our time. Speaks and writes clearly
and fluently on various topics, but the use of less common
vocabulary and complex sentence structures may, however, cause
difficulties. Generally has a good and versatile command of grammar
and vocabulary.
C2 - Understands a wide range of spoken and
written language without difficulty. Experiences only occasional
difficulties with subtle differences of tone and nuance in
expressions. Speaks and writes extremely fluently in a
situationally-appropriate style. Is able to express even subtle
nuances of meaning. Has a solid command of grammar and vocabulary
in almost all situations; even small inaccuracies are rare.
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