Com m on European Fram ew ork

of R eference for Languages:

Learning, teaching, assessm ent
Structured overview of all CEFR scales

The copyright of the descriptive scales and the illustrative

scales (in all languages) reproduced in this document
belongs to the Council of Europe.
Publishers should ask permission prior to using these
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Table of contents
1 Common Reference Levels
1.1 Global scale

1.2 Self-assessment grid

1.3 Qualitative aspects of spoken language use

2 Illustrative scales
2.1 Communicative Activities:
Reception

Interaction

Production

Spoken

Overall Listening Comprehension

Understanding Interaction between Native Speakers.
Listening as a Member of a Live Audience
Listening to Announcements & Instructions
Listening to Radio & Audio Recordings

8
8
9
9
9

Audio/Visual Watching TV & Film

10

Written

Overall Reading Comprehension

Reading Correspondence
Reading for Orientation
Reading for Information and Argument
Reading Instructions

10
11
11
11
12

Spoken

Overall Spoken Interaction

Understanding a Native Speaker Interlocutor
Conversation
Informal Discussion
Formal Discussion (Meetings)
Goal-oriented Co-operation
Obtaining Goods and Services
Information Exchange
Interviewing & Being Interviewed

12
13
13
14
15
16
17
18
19

Written

Overall Written Interaction

Correspondence
Notes, Messages & Forms

19
19
20

Spoken

Overall Spoken Production

Sustained Monologue: Describing Experience
Sustained Monologue: Putting a Case (e.g. Debate)
Public Announcements
Addressing Audiences

20
21
21
22
22

Written

Overall Written Production

Creative Writing
Writing Reports and Essays

23
23
24

2.2 Communication Strategies

Reception
Identifying Cues and Inferring
Interaction
Taking the Floor (Turntaking)
Co-operating
Asking for Clarification
Production
Planning
Compensating
Monitoring and Repair
2.3 Working with Text
Text

Notetaking in Seminars and Lectures

Processing Text

24
25
25
25
25
26
26

26
26

2.4 Communicative Language Competence

Linguistic
Range
General Range
Vocabulary Range
Control
Grammatical Accuracy
Vocabulary Control
Phonological Control
Orthographic Control
Sociolinguistic
Sociolinguistic
Pragmatic
Flexibility
Taking the Floor (Turntaking) repeated
Thematic Development
Coherence
Propositional Precision
Spoken Fluency

30
30
30
31
31
31

Appendix: The hierarchy of scales

32

27
27
28
28
28
29
29

1 Common Reference Levels

1.1 Global scale

Proficient User

C2

C1

Independent User

B2

B1

Basic User

A2

A1

Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can summarise
information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing 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.
Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit
meaning. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious
searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social,
academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text
on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and
cohesive devices.
Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics,
including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with a
degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers
quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide
range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and
disadvantages of various options.
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 travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple
connected text on topics, which are familiar, or of personal interest. Can describe
experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and
explanations for opinions and plans.
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.
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 he/she lives, people
he/she knows and things he/she has. Can interact in a simple way provided the other
person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.

1.2 Self-assessment grid

Reception
C2

C1

B2

B1

A2

A1

Interaction

Production

Listening

Reading

Spoken Interaction

I have no difficulty in
understanding any kind of
spoken language, whether
live or broadcast, even
when delivered at fast
native speed, provided I
have some time to get
familiar with the accent.

I can read with ease

virtually all forms of
the written language,
including abstract,
structurally or
linguistically complex
texts such as manuals,
specialised articles and
literary works.

I can take part effortlessly in

any conversation or discussion
and have a good familiarity
with idiomatic expressions and
colloquialisms. I can express
myself fluently and convey
finer shades of meaning
precisely. If I do have a
problem I can backtrack and
restructure around the
difficulty so smoothly that
I can express myself
other people are hardly aware
with clarity and
of it.
precision, relating to
the addressee
flexibly and
I can express myself fluently
effectively in an
and spontaneously without
assured, personal,
much obvious searching for
style.
expressions. I can use
language flexibly and
effectively for social and
professional purposes. I can
formulate ideas and opinions
with precision and relate my
contribution skilfully to those
of other speakers

I can understand texts

that consist mainly of
high frequency
everyday or job-related
language. I can
understand the
description of events,
feelings and wishes in
personal letters

I can deal with most situations I can write personal

likely to arise whilst travelling in letters describing
an area where the language is
experiences and
spoken. I can enter unprepared impressions.
into conversation on topics that
are familiar, of personal interest
or pertinent to everyday life (e.g
family, hobbies, work, travel and
current events).

I can connect phrases in a

simple way in order to
describe experiences and
events, my dreams, hopes
& ambitions. I can briefly
give reasons and
explanations for opinions
and plans. I can narrate a
story or relate the plot of a
book or film and describe
my reactions.

I can read very short,

simple texts. I can
find specific,
predictable
information in simple
everyday material
such as
advertisements,
prospectuses, menus
and timetables and I
can understand short
simple personal letters

I can communicate in simple

and routine tasks requiring a
simple and direct exchange of
information on familiar topics
and activities. I can handle
very short social exchanges,
even though I can't usually
understand enough to keep the
conversation going myself.

I can write short,

simple notes and
messages relating to
matters in areas of
immediate need. I
can write a very
simple personal
letter, for example
thanking someone
for something.

I can use a series of

I can write a series of
phrases and sentences to simple phrases and
describe in simple terms sentences linked with
my family and other
simple connectors like
people, living conditions, and", but and
my educational background because.
and my present or most
recent job

I can understand
familiar names, words
and very simple
sentences, for
example on notices
and posters or in
catalogues.

I can interact in a simple way

provided the other person is
prepared to repeat or rephrase
things at a slower rate of
speech and help me formulate
what I'm trying to say. I can
ask and answer simple
questions in areas of
immediate need or on very
familiar topics.

I can write a short,

simple postcard, for
examples sending
holiday greetings. I
can fill in forms with
personal details, for
example entering my
name, nationality and
address on a hotel
registration form.

I can use simple phrases

and sentences to describe
where I live and people I
know.

I can understand extended

speech even when it is not
clearly structured and
when relationships are
only implied and not
signalled explicitly. I can
understand television
programmes and films
without too much effort.

I can understand extended

speech and lectures and
follow even complex lines
of argument provided the
topic is reasonably
familiar. I can understand
most TV news and
current affairs
programmes. I can
understand the majority of
films in standard dialect.
I can understand the main
points of clear standard
speech on familiar matters
regularly encountered in
work, school, leisure, etc. I
can understand the main
point of many radio or TV
programmes on current
affairs or topics of personal
or professional interest
when the delivery is
relatively slow and clear.
I can understand phrases
and the highest frequency
vocabulary related to
areas of most immediate
personal relevance (e.g.
very basic personal and
family information,
shopping, local
geography, employment).
I can catch the main point
in short, clear, simple
messages and
announcements
I can recognise familiar
words and very basic
phrases concerning
myself, my family and
immediate concrete
surroundings when people
speak slowly and clearly.

Written Interaction Spoken Production

Written Production

I can present a clear,

I can write clear,
smoothly-flowing
smoothly flowing text
description or argument in in an appropriate style.
a style appropriate to the I can write complex
context and with an
letters, reports or
effective logical structure articles, which present a
which helps the recipient to case with an effective
notice and remember
logical structure, which
significant points.
helps the recipient to
notice and remember
significant points. I can
write summaries and
reviews of professional
or literary works.
I can understand long
I can present clear,
I can express myself in
and complex factual
detailed descriptions of
clear, well-structured
and literary texts,
complex subjects
text, expressing points
appreciating
integrating sub-themes,
of view at some length.
distinctions of style. I
developing particular
I can write detailed
can understand
points and rounding off
expositions of complex
specialised articles
with an appropriate
subjects in an essay or a
and longer technical
conclusion
report, underlining what
instructions, even
I consider to be the
when they do not
salient issues. I can
relate to my field.
write different kinds of
texts in a style
appropriate to the
reader in mind.
I can read articles and I can interact with a degree of I can write letters
I can present clear, detailed I can write clear, detailed
reports concerned
fluency and spontaneity that
highlighting the
descriptions on a wide
text on a wide range of
with contemporary
makes regular interaction with personal significance range of subjects related to subjects related to my
problems in which the native speakers quite possible. of events and
my field of interest. I can interests. I can write an
writers adopt
I can take an active part in
experiences.
explain a viewpoint on a essay or report, passing
particular stances or
discussion in familiar contexts,
topical issue giving the
on information or giving
viewpoints. I can
accounting for and sustaining
advantages and
reasons in support of or
understand
my views.
disadvantages of various against a particular point
contemporary literary
options.
of view.
prose.

I can write
straightforward
connected text on
topics, which are
familiar, or of personal
interest.

I can write simple

isolated phrases and
sentences.

1.3 Qualitative aspects of spoken language use

RANGE

C2

C1

B2

B1

A2

A1

ACCURACY

FLUENCY

INTERACTION

COHERENCE

Shows great flexibility

reformulating ideas in
differing linguistic forms
to convey finer shades of
meaning precisely, to give
emphasis, to differentiate
and to eliminate ambiguity.
Also has a good command
of idiomatic expressions
and colloquialisms.

Maintains consistent
grammatical control of
complex language, even
while attention is
otherwise engaged (e.g.
in forward planning, in
monitoring others'
reactions).

Can express him/herself

spontaneously at length
with a natural colloquial
flow, avoiding or
backtracking around any
difficulty so smoothly
that the interlocutor is
hardly aware of it.

Can interact with ease and

skill, picking up and using
non-verbal and
intonational cues
apparently effortlessly.
Can interweave his/her
contribution into the joint
discourse with fully natural
turntaking, referencing,
allusion making etc.

Can create coherent

and cohesive discourse
making full and
appropriate use of a
variety of
organisational patterns
and a wide range of
connectors and other
cohesive devices.

Has a good command of a

broad range of language
allowing him/her to select
a formulation to express
him/ herself clearly in an
appropriate style on a wide
range of general,
academic, professional or
leisure topics without
having to restrict what
he/she wants to say.

Consistently maintains a
high degree of
grammatical accuracy;
errors are rare, difficult
to spot and generally
corrected when they do
occur.

Can express him/herself

fluently and
spontaneously, almost
effortlessly. Only a
conceptually difficult
subject can hinder a
natural, smooth flow of
language.

Can select a suitable

phrase from a readily
available range of
discourse functions to
preface his remarks in
order to get or to keep the
floor and to relate his/her
own contributions skilfully
to those of other speakers.

Can produce clear,

smoothly flowing,
well-structured speech,
showing controlled use
of organisational
patterns, connectors
and cohesive devices.

Has a sufficient range of

language to be able to give
clear descriptions, express
viewpoints on most
general topics, without
much conspicuous
searching for words, using
some complex sentence
forms to do so.

Shows a relatively high

degree of grammatical
control. Does not make
errors which cause
misunderstanding, and
can correct most of
his/her mistakes.

Can produce stretches of

language with a fairly
even tempo; although
he/she can be hesitant as
he or she searches for
patterns and expressions,
there are few noticeably
long pauses.

Can initiate discourse, take

his/her turn when
appropriate and end
conversation when he / she
needs to, though he /she
may not always do this
elegantly. Can help the
discussion along on
familiar ground confirming
comprehension, inviting
others in, etc.

Can use a limited

number of cohesive
devices to link his/her
utterances into clear,
coherent discourse,
though there may be
some "jumpiness" in a
long contribution.

Has enough language to

get by, with sufficient
vocabulary to express
him/herself with some
hesitation and circumlocutions on topics such as
family, hobbies and
interests, work, travel, and
current events.

Uses reasonably
accurately a repertoire of
frequently used "routines"
and patterns associated
with more predictable
situations.

Can keep going

comprehensibly, even
though pausing for
grammatical and lexical
planning and repair is
very evident, especially in
longer stretches of free
production.

Can initiate, maintain and

close simple face-to-face
conversation on topics that
are familiar or of personal
interest. Can repeat back
part of what someone has
said to confirm mutual
understanding.

Can link a series of

shorter, discrete simple
elements into a
connected, linear
sequence of points.

Uses basic sentence

patterns with memorised
phrases, groups of a few
words and formulae in
order to communicate
limited information in
simple everyday situations.

Uses some simple

structures correctly, but
still systematically makes
basic mistakes.

Can make him/herself

understood in very short
utterances, even though
pauses, false starts and
reformulation are very
evident.

Has a very basic repertoire

of words and simple
phrases related to personal
details and particular
concrete situations.

Shows only limited

control of a few simple
grammatical structures
and sentence patterns in
a memorised repertoire.

Can answer questions and

respond to simple
statements. Can indicate
when he/she is following
but is rarely able to
understand enough to keep
conversation going of
his/her own accord.
Can manage very short,
Can ask and answer
isolated, mainly prequestions about personal
packaged utterances, with details. Can interact in a
much pausing to search
simple way but
for expressions, to
communication is totally
articulate less familiar
dependent on repetition,
words, and to repair
rephrasing and repair.
communication.

Can link groups of

words with simple
connectors like "and,
"but" and "because".

Can link words or

groups of words with
very basic linear
connectors like "and"
or "then".

2 Illustrative scales
2.1 Communicative Activities:
Reception Spoken
OVERALL LISTENING COMPREHENSION
C2

Has no difficulty in understanding any kind of spoken language, whether live or broadcast, delivered at fast
native speed

C1

Can understand enough to follow extended speech on abstract and complex topics beyond his/her own field,
though he/she may need to confirm occasional details, especially if the accent is unfamiliar.
Can recognise a wide range of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms, appreciating register shifts.
Can follow extended speech even when it is not clearly structured and when relationships are only implied and
not signalled explicitly.

B2

Can understand standard spoken language, live or broadcast, on both familiar and unfamiliar topics normally
encountered in personal, social, academic or vocational life. Only extreme background noise, inadequate
discourse structure and/or idiomatic usage influence the ability to understand.
Can understand the main ideas of propositionally and linguistically complex speech on both concrete and
abstract topics delivered in a standard dialect, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation.
Can follow extended speech and complex lines of argument provided the topic is reasonably familiar, and the
direction of the talk is sign-posted by explicit markers.

B1

Can understand straightforward factual information about common everyday or job related topics, identifying
both general messages and specific details, provided speech is clearly articulated in a generally familiar accent.
Can understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar matters regularly encountered in work,
school, leisure etc., including short narratives.

A2

Can understand enough to be able to meet needs of a concrete type provided speech is clearly and slowly
articulated.
Can understand phrases and expressions related to areas of most immediate priority (e.g. very basic personal
and family information, shopping, local geography, employment) provided speech is clearly and slowly
articulated.

A1

Can follow speech that is very slow and carefully articulated, with long pauses for him/her to assimilate
meaning.

UNDERSTANDING INTERACTION BETWEEN NATIVE SPEAKERS

No descriptor available

C2
C1

Can easily follow complex interactions between third parties in group discussion and debate, even on abstract,
complex unfamiliar topics

B2

Can keep up with an animated conversation between native speakers.

Can with some effort catch much of what is said around him/her, but may find it difficult to participate effectively in
discussion with several native speakers who do not modify their language in any way.

B1

Can generally follow the main points of extended discussion around him/her, provided speech is clearly articulated
in standard dialect.

A2

Can generally identify the topic of discussion around her that is conducted slowly and clearly.
No descriptor available

A1

LISTENING AS A MEMBER OF A LIVE AUDIENCE

C2

Can follow specialised lectures and presentations employing a high degree of colloquialism, regional usage or
unfamiliar terminology.

C1

Can follow most lectures, discussions and debates with relative ease.

B2

Can follow the essentials of lectures, talks and reports and other forms of academic/professional presentation which
are propositionally and linguistically complex.

B1

Can follow a lecture or talk within his/her own field, provided the subject matter is familiar and the presentation
straightforward and clearly structured.
Can follow in outline straightforward short talks on familiar topics provided these are delivered in clearly
articulated standard speech.

A2

No descriptor available

A1

No descriptor available

LISTENING TO ANNOUNCEMENTS & INSTRUCTIONS

No descriptor available
C2
Can extract specific information from poor quality, audibly distorted public announcements e.g. in a station, sports
C1
stadium etc.
Can understand complex technical information, such as operating instructions, specifications for familiar products
and services.
Can understand announcements and messages on concrete and abstract topics spoken in standard dialect at normal
B2
speed.
Can understand simple technical information, such as operating instructions for everyday equipment.
B1
Can follow detailed directions.
Can catch the main point in short, clear, simple messages and announcement.
A2
Can understand simple directions relating to how to get from X to Y, by foot or public transport.
Can understand instructions addressed carefully and slowly to him/her and follow short, simple directions.
A1
LISTENING TO RADIO AUDIO & RECORDINGS
No descriptor available
C2
Can understand a wide range of recorded and broadcast audio material, including some non-standard usage, and
C1
identify finer points of detail including implicit attitudes and relationships between speakers.
Can understand recordings in standard dialect likely to be encountered in social, professional or academic life and
B2
identify speaker viewpoints and attitudes as well as the information content.
Can understand most radio documentaries and most other recorded or broadcast audio material delivered in
standard dialect and can identify the speaker's mood, tone etc.
Can understand the information content of the majority of recorded or broadcast audio material on topics of
B1
personal interest delivered in clear standard speech.
Can understand the main points of radio news bulletins and simpler recorded material about familiar subjects
delivered relatively slowly and clearly.
A2

A1

Can understand and extract the essential information from short recorded passages dealing with predictable
everyday matters that are delivered slowly and clearly.
No descriptor available

Reception Audio/Visual
WATCHING TV AND FILM
No descriptor available
C2
Can follow films employing a considerable degree of slang and idiomatic usage.
C1
Can understand most TV news and current affairs programmes.
B2
Can understand documentaries, live interviews, talk shows, plays and the majority of films in standard dialect.
Can understand a large part of many TV programmes on topics of personal interest such as interviews, short
B1
lectures, and news reports when the delivery is relatively slow and clear.
Can follow many films in which visuals and action carry much of the storyline, and which are delivered clearly in
straightforward language.
Can catch the main points in TV programmes on familiar topics when the delivery is relatively slow and clear.
Can identify the main point of TV news items reporting events, accidents etc. where the visual supports the
A2
commentary.
Can follow changes of topic of factual TV news items, and form an idea of the main content.
No descriptor available
A1

Reception Written
OVERALL READING COMPREHENSION
C2

Can understand and interpret critically virtually all forms of the written language including abstract, structurally
complex, or highly colloquial literary and non-literary writings.
Can understand a wide range of long and complex texts, appreciating subtle distinctions of style and implicit as well
as explicit meaning.

C1

Can understand in detail lengthy, complex texts, whether or not they relate to his/her own area of speciality,
provided he/she can reread difficult sections.

B2

Can read with a large degree of independence, adapting style and speed of reading to different texts and
purposes, and using appropriate reference sources selectively. Has a broad active reading vocabulary, but may
experience some difficulty with low-frequency idioms.

B1

Can read straightforward factual texts on subjects related to his/her field and interest with a satisfactory level of
comprehension.

A2

Can understand short, simple texts on familiar matters of a concrete type which consist of high frequency everyday
or job-related language
Can understand short, simple texts containing the highest frequency vocabulary, including a proportion of shared
international vocabulary items.

A1

Can understand very short, simple texts a single phrase at a time, picking up familiar names, words and basic
phrases and rereading as required.

10

READING CORRESPONDENCE
No descriptor available
C2
Can understand any correspondence given the occasional use of a dictionary.
C1
Can read correspondence relating to his/her field of interest and readily grasp the essential meaning.
B2
Can understand the description of events, feelings and wishes in personal letters well enough to correspond
B1
regularly with a pen friend.
Can understand basic types of standard routine letters and faxes (enquiries, orders, letters of confirmation etc.) on
A2
familiar topics
Can understand short simple personal letters.
Can understand short, simple messages on postcards.
A1
READING FOR ORIENTATION
No descriptor available
C2
No descriptor available
C1
Can scan quickly through long and complex texts, locating relevant details.
B2
Can quickly identify the content and relevance of news items, articles and reports on a wide range of professional
topics, deciding whether closer study is worthwhile.
Can scan longer texts in order to locate desired information, and gather information from different parts of a text,
B1
or from different texts in order to fulfil a specific task.
Can find and understand relevant information in everyday material, such as letters, brochures and short official
documents.
A2

A1

Can find specific, predictable information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, prospectuses, menus,
reference lists and timetables.
Can locate specific information in lists and isolate the information required (e.g. use the "Yellow Pages" to find a
service or tradesman).
Can understand everyday signs and notices: in public places, such as streets, restaurants, railway stations; in
workplaces, such as directions, instructions, hazard warnings.
Can recognise familiar names, words and very basic phrases on simple notices in the most common everyday
situations.

READING FOR INFORMATION & ARGUMENT

No descriptor available
C2
Can understand in detail a wide range of lengthy, complex texts likely to be encountered in social, professional
or academic life, identifying finer points of detail including attitudes and implied as well as stated opinions.
C1
Can obtain information, ideas and opinions from highly specialised sources within his/her field.
B2
Can understand specialised articles outside his/her field, provided he/she can use a dictionary occasionally to
confirm his/her interpretation of terminology.
Can understand articles and reports concerned with contemporary problems in which the writers adopt particular
stances or viewpoints.
Can identify the main conclusions in clearly signalled argumentative texts.
B1
Can recognise the line of argument in the treatment of the issue presented, though not necessarily in detail.
Can recognise significant points in straightforward newspaper articles on familiar subjects.
Can identify specific information in simpler written material he/she encounters such as letters, brochures and short
A2
newspaper articles describing events.
A1

Can get an idea of the content of simpler informational material and short simple descriptions, especially if there is
visual support.

11

READING INSTRUCTIONS
No descriptor available
C2
Can understand in detail lengthy, complex instructions on a new machine or procedure, whether or not the
instructions relate to his/her own area of speciality, provided he/she can reread difficult sections.
C1
B2

Can understand lengthy, complex instructions in his field, including details on conditions and warnings, provided
he/she can reread difficult sections.
Can understand clearly written, straightforward instructions for a piece of equipment

B1
A2

Can understand regulations, for example safety, when expressed in simple language.

A1

Can understand simple instructions on equipment encountered in everyday life - such as a public telephone.
Can follow short, simple written directions (e.g., to go from X to Y)

Interaction Spoken
OVERALL SPOKEN INTERACTION
C2

Has a good command of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms with awareness of connotative levels of meaning.
Can convey finer shades of meaning precisely by using, with reasonable accuracy, a wide range of modification
devices. Can backtrack and restructure around a difficulty so smoothly the interlocutor is hardly aware of it.

C1

Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly. Has a good command of a broad lexical
repertoire allowing gaps to be readily overcome with circumlocutions. There is little obvious searching for
expressions or avoidance strategies; only a conceptually difficult subject can hinder a natural, smooth flow of
language.

B2

Can use the language fluently, accurately and effectively on a wide range of general, academic, vocational or
leisure topics, marking clearly the relationships between ideas. Can communicate spontaneously with good
grammatical control without much sign of having to restrict what he/she wants to say, adopting a level of formality
appropriate to the circumstances.
Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction, and sustained relationships
with native speakers quite possible without imposing strain on either party. Can highlight the personal significance
of events and experiences, account for and sustain views clearly by providing relevant explanations and arguments.

B1

Can communicate with some confidence on familiar routine and non-routine matters related to his/her interests and
professional field. Can exchange, check and confirm information, deal with less routine situations and explain why
something is a problem. Can express thoughts on more abstract, cultural topics such as films, books, music etc.
Can exploit a wide range of simple language to deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling. Can enter
unprepared into conversation of familiar topics, express personal opinions and exchange information on topics that
are familiar, of personal interest or pertinent to everyday life (e.g. family, hobbies, work, travel and current events).

A2

Can interact with reasonable ease in structured situations and short conversations, provided the other person helps
if necessary. Can manage simple, routine exchanges without undue effort; can ask and answer questions and
exchange ideas and information on familiar topics in predictable everyday situations.
Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar
and routine matters to do with work and free time. Can handle very short social exchanges but is rarely able to
understand enough to keep conversation going of his/her own accord.

A1

Can interact in a simple way but communication is totally dependent on repetition at a slower rate of speech,
rephrasing and repair. Can ask and answer simple questions, initiate and respond to simple statements in areas of
immediate need or on very familiar topics.

12

UNDERSTANDING A NATIVE SPEAKER INTERLOCUTOR

Can understand any native speaker interlocutor, even on abstract and complex topics of a specialist nature
C2
beyond his/her own field, given an opportunity to adjust to a non-standard accent or dialect.
Can understand in detail speech on abstract and complex topics of a specialist nature beyond his/her own field,
C1
though he/she may need to confirm occasional details, especially if the accent is unfamiliar.
Can understand in detail what is said to him/her in the standard spoken language even in a noisy environment.
B2
Can follow clearly articulated speech directed at him/her in everyday conversation, though will sometimes have
B1
to ask for repetition of particular words and phrases.
Can understand enough to manage simple, routine exchanges without undue effort.
A2
Can generally understand clear, standard speech on familiar matters directed at him/her, provided he/she can ask
for repetition or reformulation from time to time.
Can understand what is said clearly, slowly and directly to him/her in simple everyday conversation; can be made
to understand, if the speaker can take the trouble.
Can understand everyday expressions aimed at the satisfaction of simple needs of a concrete type, delivered directly
A1
to him/her in clear, slow and repeated speech by a sympathetic speaker.
Can understand questions and instructions addressed carefully and slowly to him/her and follow short, simple
directions.
CONVERSATION
Can converse comfortably and appropriately, unhampered by any linguistic limitations in conducting a full social
C2
and personal life.
Can use language flexibly and effectively for social purposes, including emotional, allusive and joking usage.
C1
Can engage in extended conversation on most general topics in a clearly participatory fashion, even in a noisy
B2
environment.
Can sustain relationships with native speakers without unintentionally amusing or irritating them or requiring them
to behave other than they would with a native speaker.
Can convey degrees of emotion and highlight the personal significance of events and experiences.
Can enter unprepared into conversations on familiar topics.
B1
Can follow clearly articulated speech directed at him/her in everyday conversation, though will sometimes have to
ask for repetition of particular words and phrases.
Can maintain a conversation or discussion but may sometimes be difficult to follow when trying to say exactly what
he/she would like to.
Can express and respond to feelings such as surprise, happiness, sadness, interest and indifference.
Can establish social contact: greetings and farewells; introductions; giving thanks.
A2
Can generally understand clear, standard speech on familiar matters directed at him/her, provided he/she can ask
for repetition or reformulation from time to time.
Can participate in short conversations in routine contexts on topics of interest.
Can express how he/she feels in simple terms, and express thanks.
Can handle very short social exchanges but is rarely able to understand enough to keep conversation going of
his/her own accord, though he/she can be made to understand if the speaker will take the trouble.
Can use simple everyday polite forms of greeting and address
Can make and respond to invitations, invitations and apologies.
Can say what he/she likes and dislikes.
Can make an introduction and use basic greeting and leave-taking expressions.
A1
Can ask how people are and react to news.
Can understand everyday expressions aimed at the satisfaction of simple needs of a concrete type, delivered directly
to him/her in clear, slow and repeated speech by a sympathetic speaker.

13

INFORMAL DISCUSSION (WITH FRIENDS)

No descriptor available
C2
Can easily follow and contribute to complex interactions between third parties in group discussion even on abstract,
C1
complex unfamiliar topics.
Can keep up with an animated discussion between native speakers
B2
Can express his/her ideas and opinions with precision, present and respond to complex lines of argument
convincingly.
Can take an active part in informal discussion in familiar contexts, commenting, putting point of view clearly,
evaluating alternative proposals and making and responding to hypotheses.
Can with some effort catch much of what is said around him/her in discussion, but may find it difficult to
participate effectively in discussion with several native speakers who do not modify their language in any way.
Can account for and sustain his/her opinions in discussion by providing relevant explanations, arguments and
comments.
Can follow much of what is said around him/her on general topics provided interlocutors avoid very idiomatic
B1
usage and articulate clearly.
Can express his/her thoughts about abstract or cultural topics such as music, films. Can explain why something is a
problem.
Can give brief comments on the views of others.
Can compare and contrast alternatives, discussing what to do, where to go, who or which to choose etc.
Can generally follow the main points in an informal discussion with friends provided speech is clearly articulated in
standard dialect.
Can give or seek personal views and opinions in discussing topics of interest.
Can make his/her opinions and reactions understood as regards solutions to problems or practical questions of
where to go, what to do, how to organise an event (e.g. an outing).
Can express belief, opinion, agreement and disagreement politely.
Can generally identify the topic of discussion around her which is conducted slowly and clearly.
A2
Can discuss what to do in the evening, at the weekend.
Can make and respond to suggestions.
Can agree and disagree with others.
Can discuss everyday practical issues in a simple way when addressed clearly, slowly and directly.
Can discuss what to do, where to go and make arrangements to meet.
No descriptors available
A1

14

FORMAL DISCUSSION (MEETINGS)

Can hold his/her own in formal discussion of complex issues, putting an articulate and persuasive argument, at no
C2
disadvantage to native speakers.
Can easily keep up with the debate, even on abstract, complex unfamiliar topics.
C1
Can argue a formal position convincingly, responding to questions and comments and answering complex lines of
counter argument fluently, spontaneously and appropriately.
Can keep up with an animated discussion, identifying accurately arguments supporting and opposing points of view.
B2
Can express his/her ideas and opinions with precision, present and respond to complex lines of argument
convincingly.
Can participate actively in routine and non routine formal discussion.
Can follow the discussion on matters related to his/her field, understand in detail the points given prominence by
the speaker.
Can contribute, account for and sustain his/her opinion, evaluate alternative proposals and make and respond to
hypotheses.
Can follow much of what is said that is related to his/her field, provided interlocutors avoid very idiomatic usage
B1
and articulate clearly.
Can put over a point of view clearly, but has difficulty engaging in debate.
Can take part in routine formal discussion of familiar subjects which is conducted in clearly articulated speech in
the standard dialect and which involves the exchange of factual information, receiving instructions or the discussion
of solutions to practical problems.
Can generally follow changes of topic in formal discussion related to his/her field which is conducted slowly and
A2
clearly.
Can exchange relevant information and give his/her opinion on practical problems when asked directly, provided
he/she receives some help with formulation and can ask for repetition of key points if necessary.
Can say what he/she thinks about things when addressed directly in a formal meeting, provided he/she can ask
for repetition of key points if necessary.
No descriptor available
A1
Note: The descriptors on this sub-scale have not been empirically calibrated with the measurement model.

15

GOAL-ORIENTED CO-OPERATION (e.g. Repairing a car, discussing a document, organising an event)

No descriptor available
C2
No descriptor available
C1
Can understand detailed instructions reliably.
B2
Can help along the progress of the work by inviting others to join in, say what they think etc.
Can outline an issue or a problem clearly, speculating about causes or consequences, and weighing advantages and
disadvantages of different approaches.
Can follow what is said, though he/she may occasionally has to ask for repetition or clarification if the other
B1
people's talk is rapid or extended.
Can explain why something is a problem, discuss what to do next, compare and contrast alternatives.
Can give brief comments on the views of others.
Can generally follow what is said and, when necessary, can repeat back part of what someone has said to confirm
mutual understanding.
Can make his/her opinions and reactions understood as regards possible solutions or the question of what to do
next, giving brief reasons and explanations.
Can invite others to give their views on how to proceed.
Can understand enough to manage simple, routine tasks without undue effort, asking very simply for repetition when
A2
he/she does not understand.
Can discuss what to do next, making and responding to suggestions, asking for and giving directions.
Can indicate when he/she is following and can be made to understand what is necessary, if the speaker takes the
trouble.
Can communicate in simple and routine tasks using simple phrases to ask for and provide things, to get simple
information and to discuss what to do next.
Can understand questions and instructions addressed carefully and slowly to him/her and follow short, simple
A1
directions.
Can ask people for things, and give people things.

16

TRANSACTIONS TO OBTAIN GOODS & SERVICES

No descriptor available
C2
No descriptor available
C1
Can cope linguistically to negotiate a solution to a dispute like an undeserved traffic ticket, financial responsibility
B2
for damage in a flat, for blame regarding an accident.
Can outline a case for compensation, using persuasive language to demand satisfaction and state clearly the limits
to any concession he/she is prepared to make.
Can explain a problem which has arisen and make it clear that the provider of the service/customer must make a
concession.
Can deal with most transactions likely to arise whilst travelling, arranging travel or accommodation, or dealing
B1
with authorities during a foreign visit.
Can cope with less routine situations in shops, post office, bank, e.g. returning an unsatisfactory purchase. Can
make a complaint.
Can deal with most situations likely to arise when making travel arrangements through an agent or when actually
travelling, e.g., asking passenger where to get off for unfamiliar destination.
Can deal with common aspects of everyday living such as travel, lodgings, eating and shopping.
A2
Can get all the information needed from a tourist office, as long as it is of a straightforward, non-specialised nature.
Can ask for and provide everyday goods and services.
Can get simple information about travel, use public transport: buses, trains, and taxis, ask and give directions, and
buy tickets.
Can ask about things and make simple transactions in shops, post offices or banks.
Can give and receive information about quantities, numbers, prices etc.
Can make simple purchases by stating what is wanted and asking the price.
Can order a meal.
Can ask people for things and give people things.
A1
Can handle numbers, quantities, cost and time.

17

INFORMATION EXCHANGE
No descriptor available
C2
No descriptor available
C1
Can understand and exchange complex information and advice on the full range of matters related to his/her
B2
occupational role.
Can pass on detailed information reliably.
Can give a clear, detailed description of how to carry out a procedure.
Can synthesise and report information and arguments from a number of sources.
Can exchange, check and confirm accumulated factual information on familiar routine and non-routine matters
B1
within his field with some confidence.
Can describe how to do something, giving detailed instructions.
Can summarise and give his or her opinion about a short story, article, talk, discussion interview, or documentary
and answer further questions of detail.
Can find out and pass on straightforward factual information.
Can ask for and follow detailed directions
Can obtain more detailed information.
Can understand enough to manage simple, routine exchanges without undue effort.
A2
Can deal with practical everyday demands: finding out and passing on straightforward factual information.
Can ask and answer questions about habits and routines.
Can ask and answer questions about pastimes and past activities.
Can give and follow simple directions and instructions e.g. explain how to get somewhere.
Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information.
Can exchange limited information on familiar and routine operational matters
Can ask and answer questions about what they do at work and in free time
Can ask for and give directions referring to a map or plan.
Can ask for and provide personal information.
Can understand questions and instructions addressed carefully and slowly to him/her and follow short, simple
A1
directions.
Can ask and answer simple questions, initiate and respond to simple statements in areas of immediate need or on
very familiar topics.
Can ask and answer questions about themselves and other people, where they live, people they know, things they
have.
Can indicate time by such phrases as next week, last Friday, in November, three o'clock.

18

INTERVIEWING AND BEING INTERVIEWED

Can keep up his/her side of the dialogue extremely well, structuring the talk and interacting authoritatively with
C2
complete fluency as interviewer or interviewee, at no disadvantage to a native speaker.
Can participate fully in an interview, as either interviewer or interviewee, expanding and developing the point being
C1
discussed fluently without any support, and handling interjections well.
Can carry out an effective, fluent interview, departing spontaneously from prepared questions, following up and
B2
probing interesting replies.
Can take initiatives in an interview, expand and develop ideas with little help or prodding from an interviewer.
Can provide concrete information required in an interview/consultation (e.g. describe symptoms to a doctor) but
B1
does so with limited precision.
Can carry out a prepared interview, checking and confirming information, though he/she may occasionally have to
ask for repetition if the other person's response is rapid or extended.
Can take some initiatives in an interview/consultation (e.g. to bring up a new subject) but is very dependent on
interviewer in the interaction.
Can use a prepared questionnaire to carry out a structured interview, with some spontaneous follow up questions.
Can make him/herself understood in an interview and communicating ideas and information on familiar topics,
A2
provided he/she can ask for clarification occasionally, and is given some help to express what he/she wants to.
Can answer simple questions and respond to simple statements in an interview.
Can reply in an interview to simple direct questions spoken very slowly and clearly in direct non-idiomatic speech
A1
about personal details.
Interaction Written
OVERALL WRITTEN INTERACTION
C2

No descriptor available

C1

Can express him/herself with clarity and precision, relating to the addressee flexibly and effectively.

B2

Can express news and views effectively in writing, and relate to those of others.

B1

Can convey information and ideas on abstract as well as concrete topics, check information and ask about or
explain problems with reasonable precision.
Can write personal letters and notes asking for or conveying simple information of immediate relevance, getting
across the point he/she feels to be important

A2

Can write short, simple formulaic notes relating to matters in areas of immediate need.

A1

Can ask for or pass on personal details in written form

CORRESPONDENCE
No descriptor available
C2
Can express him/herself with clarity and precision in personal correspondence, using language flexibly and
C1
effectively, including emotional, allusive and joking usage.
Can write letters conveying degrees of emotion and highlighting the personal significance of events and experiences
B2
and commenting on the correspondent's news and views.
Can write personal letters giving news and expressing thoughts about abstract or cultural topics such as music,
B1
films.
Can write personal letters describing experiences, feelings and events in some detail.
Can write very simple personal letters expressing thanks and apology.
A2
Can write a short simple postcard
A1

19

NOTES, MESSAGES & FORMS

No descriptor available
C2
No descriptor available
C1
No descriptor available
B2
Can take messages communicating enquiries, explaining problems.
B1
Can write notes conveying simple information of immediate relevance to friends, service people, teachers and others
who feature in his/her everyday life, getting across comprehensibly the points he/she feels are important.
Can take a short, simple message provided he/she can ask for repetition and reformulation.
A2
Can write short, simple notes and messages relating to matters in areas of immediate need.
Can write numbers and dates, own name, nationality, address, age, date of birth or arrival in the country etc. such
A1
as on a hotel registration form.
Production Spoken
OVERALL SPOKEN PRODUCTION
C2

Can produce clear, smoothly flowing well-structured speech with an effective logical structure which helps the
recipient to notice and remember significant points.

C1

Can give clear, detailed descriptions and presentations on complex subjects, integrating sub themes, developing
particular points and rounding off with an appropriate conclusion.
Can give clear, systematically developed descriptions and presentations, with appropriate highlighting of
significant points, and relevant supporting detail.

B2

Can give clear, detailed descriptions and presentations on a wide range of subjects related to his/her field of
interest, expanding and supporting ideas with subsidiary points and relevant examples.

B1

Can reasonably fluently sustain a straightforward description of one of a variety of subjects within his/her field of
interest, presenting it as a linear sequence of points.

A2

Can give a simple description or presentation of people, living or working conditions, daily routines. likes/dislikes
etc. as a short series of simple phrases and sentences linked into a list.

A1

Can produce simple mainly isolated phrases about people and places.

20

SUSTAINED MONOLOGUE: Describing Experience

Can give clear, smoothly flowing, elaborate and often memorable descriptions.
C2
Can give clear, detailed descriptions of complex subjects.
C1
Can give elaborate descriptions and narratives, integrating sub themes, developing particular points and
rounding off with an appropriate conclusion.
B2

Can give clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of subjects related to his field of interest.

B1

Can give straightforward descriptions on a variety of familiar subjects within his field of interest.
Can reasonably fluently relate a straightforward narrative or description as a linear sequence of points. Can give
detailed accounts of experiences, describing feelings and reactions.
Can relate details of unpredictable occurrences, e.g., an accident.
Can relate the plot of a book or film and describe his/her reactions.
Can describe dreams, hopes and ambitions.
Can describe events, real or imagined.
Can narrate a story.
Can tell a story or describe something in a simple list of points. Can describe everyday aspects of his environment
e.g. people, places, a job or study experience.
Can give short, basic descriptions of events and activities.
Can describe plans and arrangements, habits and routines, past activities and personal experiences.
Can use simple descriptive language to make brief statements about and compare objects and possessions.
Can explain what he/she likes or dislikes about something.
Can describe his/her family, living conditions, educational background, present or most recent job.
Can describe people, places and possessions in simple terms.
Can describe him/herself, what he/she does and where he/she lives.

A2

A1

SUSTAINED MONOLOGUE: Putting a Case (e.g. in a Debate)

No descriptor available
C2
No descriptor available
C1
Can develop an argument systematically with appropriate highlighting of significant points, and relevant
supporting detail.
Can develop a clear argument, expanding and supporting his/her points of view at some length with subsidiary
points and relevant examples.
B2

B1
A2
A1

Can construct a chain of reasoned argument:

Can explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Can develop an argument well enough to be followed without difficulty most of the time.
Can briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions, plans and actions.
No descriptor available
No descriptor available

21

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
No descriptor available
C2
Can deliver announcements fluently, almost effortlessly, using stress and intonation to convey finer shades of
C1
meaning precisely.
Can deliver announcements on most general topics with a degree of clarity, fluency and spontaneity which causes
B2
no strain or inconvenience to the listener.
Can deliver short, rehearsed announcements on a topic pertinent to everyday occurrences in his/her field which,
B1
despite possibly very foreign stress and intonation, are nevertheless clearly intelligible.
Can deliver very short, rehearsed announcements of predictable, learnt content which are intelligible to listeners
A2
who are prepared to concentrate.
No descriptor available
A1
Note: The descriptors on this sub-scale have not been empirically calibrated.
ADDRESSING AUDIENCES
Can present a complex topic confidently and articulately to an audience unfamiliar with it, structuring and adapting
C2
the talk flexibly to meet the audience's needs.
Can handle difficult and even hostile questioning
Can give a clear, well-structured presentation of a complex subject, expanding and supporting points of view at
C1
some length with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples.
Can handle interjections well, responding spontaneously and almost effortlessly.
Can give a clear, systematically developed presentation, with highlighting of significant points, and relevant
B2
supporting detail.
Can depart spontaneously from a prepared text and follow up interesting points raised by members of the audience,
often showing remarkable fluency and ease of expression.
Can give a clear, prepared presentation, giving reasons in support of or against a particular point of view and
giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Can take a series of follow up questions with a degree of fluency and spontaneity which poses no strain for either
him/herself or the audience.
Can give a prepared straightforward presentation on a familiar topic within his/her field which is clear enough to
B1
be followed without difficulty most of the time, and in which the main points are explained with reasonable
precision.
Can take follow up questions, but may have to ask for repetition if the speech was rapid.
Can give a short, rehearsed presentation on a topic pertinent to his everyday life, briefly give reasons and
A2
explanations for opinions, plans and actions.
Can cope with a limited number of straightforward follow up questions.
Can give a short, rehearsed, basic presentation on a familiar subject.
Can answer straightforward follow up questions if he/she can as for repetition and if some help with the formulation
of his reply is possible.
Can read a very short, rehearsed statement - e.g. to introduce a speaker, propose a toast.
A1

22

Production Written
OVERALL WRITTEN PRODUCTION
C2

Can write clear, smoothly flowing, complex texts in an appropriate and effective style and a logical structure
which helps the reader to find significant points.

C1

Can write clear, well-structured texts of complex subjects, underlining the relevant salient issues, expanding and
supporting points of view at some length with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples, and rounding off
with an appropriate conclusion.

B2

Can write clear, detailed texts on a variety of subjects related to his field of interest, synthesising and evaluating
information and arguments from a number of sources.

B1

Can write straightforward connected texts on a range of familiar subjects within his field of interest, by linking a
series of shorter discrete elements into a linear sequence.

A2

Can write a series of simple phrases and sentences linked with simple connectors like and", but and because.

Can write simple isolated phrases and sentences.

A1
Note: The descriptors on this scale and on the two sub-scales which follow (Creative Writing; Reports &
Essays) sub-scale have not been empirically calibrated with the measurement model. The descriptors for these
three scales have therefore been created by recombining elements of descriptors from other scales
CREATIVE WRITING
Can write clear, smoothly flowing, and fully engrossing stories and descriptions of experience in a style appropriate
C2
to the genre adopted.
Can write clear, detailed, well-structured and developed descriptions and imaginative texts in an assured, personal,
C1
natural style appropriate to the reader in mind.
Can write clear, detailed descriptions of real or imaginary events and experiences marking the relationship between
B2
ideas in clear connected text, and following established conventions of the genre concerned.
Can write clear, detailed descriptions on a variety of subjects related to his/her field of interest.
Can write a review of a film, book or play.
B1

A2

A1

Can write straightforward, detailed descriptions on a range of familiar subjects within his field of interest.
Can write accounts of experiences, describing feelings and reactions in simple connected text.
Can write a description of an event, a recent trip - real or imagined.
Can narrate a story.
Can write about everyday aspects of his environment e.g. people, places, a job or study experience in linked
sentences.
Can write very short, basic descriptions of events, past activities and personal experiences.
Can write a series of simple phrases and sentences about their family, living conditions, educational background,
present or most recent job.
Can write short, simple imaginary biographies and simple poems about people.
Can write simple phrases and sentences about themselves and imaginary people, where they live and what they do.

23

REPORTS & ESSAYS

Can produce clear, smoothly flowing, complex reports, articles or essays which present a case, or give critical
appreciation of proposals or literary works.
C2
Can provide an appropriate and effective logical structure which helps the reader to find significant points.
Can write clear, well-structured expositions of complex subjects, underlining the relevant salient issues.
Can expand and support points of view at some length with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples.
C1
Can write an essay or report that develops an argument systematically with appropriate highlighting of
B2
significant points and relevant supporting detail.
Can evaluate different ideas or solutions to a problem.
Can write an essay or report which develops an argument, giving reasons in support of or against a particular
point of view and explaining the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Can synthesise information and arguments from a number of sources.
Can write short, simple essays on topics of interest.
B1
Can summarise, report and give his/her opinion about accumulated factual information on familiar routine and
non-routine matters within his field with some confidence.
Can write very brief, reports to a standard conventionalised format, which pass on routine factual information and
state reasons for actions.
No descriptor available
A2
No descriptor available
A1

2.2 Communication Strategies

Reception
IDENTIFYING CUES & INFERRING (Spoken & Written)
No descriptor available
C2
Is skilled at using contextual, grammatical and lexical cues to infer attitude, mood and intentions and anticipate
C1
what will come next.
Can use a variety of strategies to achieve comprehension, including listening for main points; checking
B2
comprehension by using contextual clues.
Can identify unfamiliar words from the context on topics related to his/her field and interests.
B1
Can extrapolate the meaning of occasional unknown words from the context and deduce sentence meaning
provided the topic discussed is familiar.
Can use an idea of the overall meaning of short texts and utterances on everyday topics of a concrete type to derive
A2
the probable meaning of unknown words from the context.
No descriptor available
A1

24

Interaction
TAKING THE FLOOR (TURNTAKING)
No descriptor available
C2
Can select a suitable phrase from a readily available range of discourse functions to preface his remarks
C1
appropriately in order to get the floor, or to gain time and keep the floor whilst thinking.
Can intervene appropriately in discussion, exploiting appropriate language to do so.
B2
Can initiate, maintain and end discourse appropriately with effective turntaking.
Can initiate discourse, take his turn when appropriate and end conversation when he/she needs to, though he/she
may not always do this elegantly.
Can use stock phrases (e.g. "That's a difficult question to answer") to gain time and keep the turn whilst formulating
what to say.
Can intervene in a discussion on a familiar topic, using a suitable phrase to get the floor.
B1
Can initiate, maintain and close simple face-to-face conversation on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
Can use simple techniques to start, maintain, or end a short conversation.
A2
Can initiate, maintain and close simple, face-to-face conversation.
Can ask for attention.
No descriptor available
A1
COOPERATING
No descriptor available
C2
Can relate own contribution skillfully to those of other speakers.
C1
B2
B1

A2
A1

Can give feedback on and follow up statements and inferences and so help the development of the discussion.
Can help the discussion along on familiar ground, confirming comprehension, inviting others in, etc.
Can exploit a basic repertoire of language and strategies to help keep a conversation or discussion going.
Can summarise the point reached in a discussion and so help focus the talk.
Can repeat back part of what someone has said to confirm mutual understanding and help keep the development of
ideas on course. Can invite others into the discussion.
Can indicate when he/she is following.
No descriptor available

ASKING FOR CLARIFICATION

No descriptor available
C2
No descriptor available
C1
Can ask follow up questions to check that he/she has understood what a speaker intended to say, and get
B2
clarification of ambiguous points.
Can ask someone to clarify or elaborate what he or she has just said.
B1
Can ask very simply for repetition when he/she does not understand.
A2
A1

Can ask for clarification about key words or phrases not understood using stock phrases.
Can say he/she didn't follow.
No descriptor available

PLANNING
No descriptor available
C2
No descriptor available
C1
Can plan what is to be said and the means to say it, considering the effect on the recipient/s.
B2
Can rehearse and try out new combinations and expressions, inviting feedback.
Can work out how to communicate the main point(s) he/she wants to get across, exploiting any resources available and limiting
B1
the message to what he/she can recall or find the means to express.
Can recall and rehearse an appropriate set of phrases from his repertoire.
A2
No descriptor available
A1

25

COMPENSATING
Can substitute an equivalent term for a word he/she can't recall so smoothly that it is scarcely noticeable.
C2
No descriptor available
C1
Can use circumlocution and paraphrase to cover gaps in vocabulary and structure.
B2
Can define the features of something concrete for which he/she can't remember the word.
B1
Can convey meaning by qualifying a word meaning something similar (e.g. a truck for people = bus).
Can use a simple word meaning something similar to the concept he/she wants to convey and invites "correction".
Can foreignise a mother tongue word and ask for confirmation.
Can use an inadequate word from his repertoire and use gesture to clarify what he/she wants to say.
A2
Can identify what he/she means by pointing to it (e.g. "I'd like this, please).
No descriptor available
A1
MONITORING & REPAIR
Can backtrack and restructure around a difficulty so smoothly the interlocutor is hardly aware of it.
C2
Can backtrack when he/she encounters a difficulty and reformulate what he/she wants to say without fully interrupting the flow of
C1
speech.
Can correct slips and errors if he/she becomes conscious of them or if they have led to misunderstandings.
B2
Can make a note of "favourite mistakes" and consciously monitor speech for it/them.
Can correct mix-ups with tenses or expressions which lead to misunderstandings provided the interlocutor indicates there is a
B1
problem.
Can ask for confirmation that a form used is correct.
Can start again using a different tactic when communication breaks down.
No descriptor available
A2
No descriptor available
A1

2.3 Working with Text

NOTE-TAKING (LECTURES, SEMINARS, ETC.)
Is aware of the implications and allusions of what is said and can make notes on them as well as on the actual words
C2
used by the speaker.
Can take detailed notes during a lecture on topics in his/her field of interest, recording the information so
C1
accurately and so close to the original that the notes could also be useful to other people.
Can understand a clearly structured lecture on a familiar subject, and can take notes on points which strike
B2
him/her as important, even though he/she tends to concentrate on the words themselves and therefore to miss
some information.
Can take notes during a lecture, which are precise enough for his/her own use at a later date, provided the topic
B1
is within his/her field of interest and the talk is clear and well structured.
Can take notes as a list of key points during a straightforward lecture, provided the topic is familiar, and the talk is
both formulated in simple language and delivered in clearly articulated standard speech.
A2
A1

No descriptor available
No descriptor available

PROCESSING TEXT
Can summarise information from different sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent
C2
presentation of the overall result.
Can summarise long, demanding texts.
C1
Can summarise a wide range of factual and imaginative texts, commenting on and discussing contrasting points
B2
of view and the main themes.
Can summarise extracts from news items, interviews or documentaries containing opinions, argument and
discussion.
Can summarise the plot and sequence of events in a film or play.
Can collate short pieces of information from several sources and summarise them for somebody else.
B1
Can paraphrase short written passages in a simple fashion, using the original text wording and ordering.
Can pick out and reproduce key words and phrases or short sentences from a short text within the learners
A2
limited competence and experience
A1

Can copy out short texts in printed or clearly hand-written format.

Can copy out single words and short texts presented in standard printed format

26

2.4 Communicative Language Competence

Linguistic
Range
GENERAL LINGUISTIC RANGE
Can exploit a comprehensive and reliable mastery of a very wide range of language to formulate thoughts precisely,
give emphasis, differentiate and eliminate ambiguity. No signs of having to restrict what he/she wants to say.
C2
Can select an appropriate formulation from a broad range of language to express him/herself clearly, without
C1
having to restrict what he/she wants to say.
Can express him/herself clearly and without much sign of having to restrict what he/she wants to say.
B2
Has a sufficient range of language to be able to give clear descriptions, express viewpoints and develop
arguments without much conspicuous searching for words, using some complex sentence forms to do so.
Has a sufficient range of language to describe unpredictable situations, explain the main points in an idea or
problem with reasonable precision and express thoughts on abstract or cultural topics such as music and films.
Has enough language to get by, with sufficient vocabulary to express him/herself with some hesitation and
B1
circumlocutions on topics such as family, hobbies and interests, work, travel, and current events, but lexical
limitations cause repetition and even difficulty with formulation at times.
Has a repertoire of basic language, which enables him/her to deal with everyday situations with predictable content,
A2
though he/she will generally have to compromise the message and search for words.
Can produce brief everyday expressions in order to satisfy simple needs of a concrete type: personal details, daily
routines, wants and needs, requests for information.
Can use basic sentence patterns and communicate with memorised phrases, groups of a few words and formulae
about themselves and other people, what they do, places, possessions etc..
Has a limited repertoire of short memorised phrases covering predictable survival situations; frequent breakdowns
and misunderstandings occur in non-routine situations.
Has a very basic range of simple expressions about personal details and needs of a concrete type.
A1
VOCABULARY RANGE
Has a good command of a very broad lexical repertoire including idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms; shows
C2
awareness of connotative levels of meaning.
Has a good command of a broad lexical repertoire allowing gaps to be readily overcome with circumlocutions;
C1
little obvious searching for expressions or avoidance strategies. Good command of idiomatic expressions and
colloquialisms.
Has a good range of vocabulary for matters connected to his field and most general topics? Can vary formulation
B2
to avoid frequent repetition, but lexical gaps can still cause hesitation and circumlocution.
Has a sufficient vocabulary to express him/herself with some circumlocutions on most topics pertinent to his
B1
everyday life such as family, hobbies and interests, work, travel, and current events.
Has sufficient vocabulary to conduct routine, everyday transactions involving familiar situations and topics.
A2
Has a sufficient vocabulary for the expression of basic communicative needs.
Has a sufficient vocabulary for coping with simple survival needs.
Has a basic vocabulary repertoire of isolated words and phrases related to particular concrete situations.
A1

27

Control
GRAMMATICAL ACCURACY
Maintains consistent grammatical control of complex language, even while attention is otherwise engaged (e.g. in
C2
forward planning, in monitoring others reactions).
Consistently maintains a high degree of grammatical accuracy; errors are rare and difficult to spot.
C1
Good grammatical control. Occasional "slips" or non-systematic errors and minor flaws in sentence structure may
B2
still occur, but they are rare and can often be corrected in retrospect.
Shows a relatively high degree of grammatical control. Does not make mistakes which lead to misunderstanding.
Communicates with reasonable accuracy in familiar contexts; generally good control though with noticeable
B1
mother tongue influence. Errors occur, but it is clear what he/she is trying to express.
Uses reasonably accurately a repertoire of frequently used "routines" and patterns associated with more
predictable situations.
Uses some simple structures correctly, but still systematically makes basic mistakes - for example tends to mix up
A2
tenses and forget to mark agreement; nevertheless, it is usually clear what he/she is trying to say.
Shows only limited control of a few simple grammatical structures and sentence patterns in a learnt repertoire.
A1

VOCABULARY CONTROL
Consistently correct and appropriate use of vocabulary.
C2
C1
B2
B1
A2
A1

Occasional minor slips, but no significant vocabulary errors.

Lexical accuracy is generally high, though some confusion and incorrect word choice does occur without hindering
communication.
Shows good control of elementary vocabulary but major errors still occur when expressing more complex thoughts
or handling unfamiliar topics and situations.
Can control a narrow repertoire dealing with concrete everyday needs.
No descriptor available

PHONOLOGICAL CONTROL
No descriptor available
C2
Can vary intonation and place sentence stress correctly in order to express finer shades of meaning.
C1
Has a clear, natural, pronunciation and intonation.
B2
B1

A2
A1

Pronunciation is clearly intelligible even if a foreign accent is sometimes evident and occasional mispronunciations
occur.
Pronunciation is generally clear enough to be understood despite a noticeable foreign accent, but conversational
partners will need to ask for repetition from time to time.
Pronunciation of a very limited repertoire of learnt words and phrases can be understood with some effort by native
speakers used to dealing with speakers of his/her language group.

28

ORTHOGRAPHIC CONTROL
Writing is orthographically free of error.
C2
Layout, paragraphing and punctuation are consistent and helpful.
C1
Spelling is accurate, apart from occasional slips of the pen.
Can produce clearly intelligible continuous writing, which follows standard layout and paragraphing conventions.
B2
Spelling and punctuation are reasonably accurate but may show signs of mother tongue influence.
Can produce continuous writing, which is generally intelligible throughout.
B1
Spelling, punctuation and layout are accurate enough to be followed most of the time.
Can copy short sentences on everyday subjects - e.g. directions how to get somewhere
A2

A1

Can write with reasonable phonetic accuracy (but not necessarily fully standard spelling) short words that are in
his/her oral vocabulary.
Can copy familiar words and short phrases e.g. simple signs or instructions, names of everyday objects, names of
shops and set phrases used regularly.

Can spell his/her address, nationality and other personal details.

Note: Scaling of descriptors is the intention of the authors of the scales on which these descriptors are based.

Sociolinguistic
SOCIOLINGUISTIC APPROPRIATENESS
Has a good command of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms with awareness of connotative levels of meaning
C2
Appreciates fully the sociolinguistic and sociocultural implications of language used by native speakers and can
react accordingly
Can mediate effectively between speakers of the target language and that of his/her community of origin taking
account of sociocultural and sociolinguistic differences.
Can recognise a wide range of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms, appreciating register shifts; may,
C1
however, need to confirm occasional details, especially if the accent is unfamiliar.
Can follow films employing a considerable degree of slang and idiomatic usage.
Can use language flexibly and effectively for social purposes, including emotional, allusive and joking usage.
B2

Can express him- or herself confidently, clearly and politely in a formal or informal register, appropriate to the
situation and person(s) concerned.
Can with some effort keep up with and contribute to group discussions even when speech is fast and colloquial.
Can sustain relationships with native speakers without unintentionally amusing or irritating them or requiring them
to behave other than they would with a native speaker.
Can express him or herself appropriately in situations and avoid crass errors of formulation.

B1

A2

Can perform and respond to a wide range of language functions, using their most common exponents in a neutral
register
Is aware of the salient politeness conventions and acts appropriately
Is aware of, and looks out for signs of, the most significant differences between the customs, usages, attitudes,
values and beliefs prevalent in the community concerned and those of his or her own.
Can perform and respond to basic language functions, such as information exchange and requests and express
opinions and attitudes in a simple way.
Can socialise simply but effectively using the simplest common expressions and following basic routines
Can handle very short social exchanges, using everyday polite forms of greeting and address. Can make and
respond to invitations, invitations, apologies etc.

A1

Can establish basic social contact by using the simplest everyday polite forms of: greetings and farewells;
introductions; saying please, thank you, sorry etc

29

Pragmatic
FLEXIBILITY
Shows great flexibility reformulating ideas in differing linguistic forms to give emphasis, to differentiate according
C2
to the situation, interlocutor etc. and to eliminate ambiguity.
No descriptor available
C1
Can adjust what he/she says and the means of expressing it to the situation and the recipient and adopt a level of
B2
formality appropriate to the circumstances.
Can adjust to the changes of direction, style and emphasis normally found in conversation.
B1
A2
A1

Can vary formulation of what he/she wants to say.

Can adapt his expression to deal with less routine, even difficult, situations.
Can exploit a wide range of simple language flexibly to express much of what he/she wants.
Can adapt well-rehearsed memorised simple phrases to particular circumstances through limited lexical
substitution.
Can expand learned phrases through simple recombinations of their elements.
No descriptor available

TAKING THE FLOOR (TURNTAKING)

No descriptor available
C2
Can select a suitable phrase from a readily available range of discourse functions to preface his remarks
C1
appropriately in order to get the floor, or to gain time and keep the floor whilst thinking.
Can intervene appropriately in discussion, exploiting appropriate language to do so.
B2
Can initiate, maintain and end discourse appropriately with effective turntaking.
Can initiate discourse, take his turn when appropriate and end conversation when he/she needs to, though he/she
may not always do this elegantly.

B1
A2

A1

Can use stock phrases (e.g. "That's a difficult question to answer") to gain time and keep the turn whilst formulating
what to say.
Can intervene in a discussion on a familiar topic, using a suitable phrase to get the floor.
Can initiate, maintain and close simple face-to-face conversation on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
Can use simple techniques to start, maintain, or end a short conversation.
Can initiate, maintain and close simple, face-to-face conversation.
Can ask for attention.
No descriptor available

THEMATIC DEVELOPMENT
C2

No descriptor available

C1

Can give elaborate descriptions and narratives, integrating sub themes, developing particular points and
rounding off with an appropriate conclusion.

B2

Can develop a clear description or narrative, expanding and supporting his/her main points with relevant
supporting detail and examples.
Can reasonably fluently relate a straightforward narrative or description as a linear sequence of points.
Can tell a story or describe something in a simple list of points.

B1
A2
A1

No descriptor available

30

COHERENCE
Can create coherent and cohesive text making full and appropriate use of a variety of organisational patterns and a
C2
wide range of cohesive devices.
Can produce clear, smoothly flowing, well-structured speech, showing controlled use of organisational patterns,
C1
connectors and cohesive devices.
Can use a variety of linking words efficiently to mark clearly the relationships between ideas.
B2
Can use a limited number of cohesive devices to link his/her utterances into clear, coherent discourse, though
there may be some "jumpiness" in a long contribution.
Can link a series of shorter, discrete simple elements into a connected, linear sequence of points.
B1
A2
Can use the most frequently occurring connectors to link simple sentences in order to tell a story or describe
something as a simple list of points.
Can link groups of words with simple connectors like "and, "but" and "because".
Can
link words or groups of words with very basic linear connectors like 'and' or 'then'.
A1

PROPOSITIONAL PRECISION
Can convey finer shades of meaning precisely by using, with reasonable accuracy, a wide range of qualifying
C2
devices (e.g. adverbs expressing degree, clauses expressing limitations).
Can give emphasis, differentiate and eliminate ambiguity.
Can qualify opinions and statements precisely in relation to degrees of, for example, certainty/ uncertainty,
C1
belief/doubt, likelihood etc.
Can pass on detailed information reliably
B2
B1

A2
A1

Can explain the main points in an idea or problem with reasonable precision.
Can convey simple, straightforward information of immediate relevance, getting across which point he/she feels is
most important.
Can express the main point he/she wants to make comprehensibly.
Can communicate what he/she wants to say in a simple and direct exchange of limited information on familiar and
routine matters, but in other situations he/she generally has to compromise the message.
No descriptor available

SPOKEN FLUENCY
Can express him/herself at length with a natural, effortless, unhesitating flow. Pauses only to reflect on precisely
C2
the right words to express his/her thoughts or to find an appropriate example or explanation.
Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly. Only a conceptually difficult subject can
C1
hinder a natural, smooth flow of language.
Can communicate spontaneously, often showing remarkable fluency and ease of expression in even longer
B2
complex stretches of speech.
Can produce stretches of language with a fairly even tempo; although he/she can be hesitant as he/she searches
for patterns and expressions, there are few noticeably long pauses.

B1

A2

A1

Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite
possible without imposing strain on either party.
Can express him/herself with relative ease. Despite some problems with formulation resulting in pauses and "culde-sacs", he/she is able to keep going effectively without help.
Can keep going comprehensibly, even though pausing for grammatical and lexical planning and repair is very
evident, especially in longer stretches of free production.
Can make him/herself understood in short contributions, even though pauses, false starts and reformulation are
very evident.
Can construct phrases on familiar topics with sufficient ease to handle short exchanges, despite very noticeable
hesitation and false starts.
Can manage very short, isolated, mainly pre-packaged utterances, with much pausing to search for expressions, to
articulate less familiar words, and to repair communication.

31

Appendix: The hierarchy of scales

The scales in the CEFR are interconnected in an underlying hierarchy. When using the scales it is
important to keep in mind that the CEFR is based on an action-oriented approach as explained in the
first paragraph of Chapter 2. The CEFR views users and learners of a language as members of society
who may wish to accomplish tasks in a given set of circumstances, in a specific environment and
within a particular field of action. These tasks are of course not exclusively language-related. While
acts of speech occur within language activities, these activities form part of a wider social context,
which alone is able to give them their full meaning.
Language use, embracing language learning, comprises the actions performed by persons who as
individuals and as social agents develop a range of competences, both general and in particular
communicative language competences. They draw on the competences at their disposal in various
contexts under various conditions and under various constraints to engage in language activities
involving language processes to produce and/or receive texts in relation to themes in specific domains,
activating those strategies which seem most appropriate for carrying out the tasks to be accomplished.
The monitoring of these actions by the participants leads to the reinforcement or modification of their
competences.

The scales of the CEFR refer to this theoretical model, but each separate scale refers to particular
aspects, elements, contexts, processes, etc. distinguished within the model. Developing competence is
described in the scales mainly along two broad dimensions: the quantity dimension (the number of
tasks persons can perform successfully by language use, in what number of contexts, in relation to
what number of themes, domains etc.) and a quality dimension (how effectively and efficiently the
persons can achieve their goals through language use. To illustrate the interrelationships between the
CEFR scales two branches of the hierarchy are presented below, the first referring to the quantity
dimension and the second to the quality dimension.
The quantity dimension branches out from overall language proficiency into Communicative
Activities. Four main types of activities are distinguished: Reception, Production, Interaction, and
Mediation. In Diagram 1 the Interaction branch is worked out in more detail. Similar branching can be
derived from the CEFR for the other three types of activities. Within Interaction a spoken and a
written branch are distinguished. Finally within the spoken branch several contexts of language use are
presented. For each of the boxes in the diagram descriptive scales are available in the CEFR,

Overall Language Proficiency

Communicative
Strategies

Reception

Communicative
Language Competencies

Production

Communicative
Activities

Interaction
Spoken

Mediation
Written

Understanding
a native speaker

Conversation

Informal
Discussion

Formal
Discussion

Obtaining Goods
and Services

Interviewing &
being interviewed

Diagram 1: The quantity dimension

32

The quality dimension also branches out from overall language proficiency (Diagram 2), but into
Communicative language competences. Three main constituents of Communicative language
competences are distinguished: linguistic, Sociolinguistic and Pragmatic. The linguistic competences
are important in achieving efficiency and effectiveness in language use. For linguistic competence two
factors are distinguished: range and control and within each of these two factors several aspects are
distinguished. For each box in the diagram descriptive scales are offered in the CEFR.

Overall language Proficiency

Communicative
Strategies
Linguistic

Communicative
Language Competencies

Pragmatic

Sociolinguistic
Control

Range
Vocabulary
Range

Communicative
Activities

General
Linguistic

Grammatical
Accuracy

Phonological
Control

Vocabulary
Control

Orthographic
Control

Diagram 2: The quality dimension

33