The table below illustrates typical general ability at each level
and in the skill areas.
Click on the other ability statements to the left to view other
tables.
LEVELS |
Listening/Speaking |
Reading |
Writing |
C2
Level 5 |
CAN advise on or talk about complex or sensitive issues,
understanding colloquial references and dealing confidently
with hostile questions. |
CAN understand documents, correspondence and reports, including
the finer points of complex texts. |
CAN write letters on any subject and full notes of meetings
or seminars with good expression and accuracy. |
C1
Level 4 |
CAN contribute effectively to meetings and seminars within
own area of work or keep up a casual conversation with a
good degree of fluency, coping with abstract expressions. |
CAN read quickly enough to cope with an academic course,
to read the media for information or to understand non-standard
correspondence. |
CAN prepare/draft professional correspondence, take reasonably
accurate notes in meetings or write an essay which shows
an ability to communicate. |
B2
Level 3 |
CAN follow or give a talk on a familiar topic or keep up
a conversation on a fairly wide range of topics. |
CAN scan texts for relevant information, and understand
detailed instructions or advice. |
CAN make notes while someone is talking or write a letter
including non-standard requests. |
B1
Level 2 |
CAN express opinions on abstract/cultural matters in a
limited way or offer advice within a known area, and understand
instructions or public announcements. |
CAN understand routine information and articles, and the
general meaning of non-routine information within a familiar
area. |
CAN write letters or make notes on familiar or predictable
matters. |
A2
Level 1 |
CAN express simple opinions or requirements in a familiar
context. |
CAN understand straightforward information within a known
area, such as on products and signs and simple textbooks
or reports on familiar matters. |
CAN complete forms and write short simple letters or postcards
related to personal information. |
A1
ALTE breakthrough level |
CAN understand basic instructions or take part in a basic
factual conversation on a predictable topic. |
CAN understand basic notices, instructions or information. |
CAN complete basic forms, and write notes including times,
dates and places. |
