The table below illustrates typical ability in the study context
and 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 understand jokes, colloquial asides and cultural allusions. |
CAN access all sources of information quickly and reliably. |
CAN make accurate and complete notes during the course
of a lecture, seminar or tutorial. |
C1
Level 4 |
CAN follow abstract argumentation, for example the balancing
of alternatives and the drawing a conclusion. |
CAN read quickly enough to cope with the demands of an
academic course. |
CAN write an essay which shows ability to communicate,
giving few difficulties for the reader. |
B2
Level 3 |
CAN give a clear presentation on a familiar topic, and
answer predictable or factual questions. |
CAN scan tests for relevant information and grasp main
point of text. |
CAN make simple notes that will be of reasonable use for
essay or revision purposes. |
B1
Level 2 |
CAN understand instructions on classes and assignments
given by a teacher or lecturer. |
CAN understand basic instructions and messages, for example
computer library catalogues, with some help. |
CAN write down some information at a lecture, if this is
more or less dictated. |
A2
Level 1 |
CAN express simple opinions using expressions such as 'I
don't agree'. |
CAN understand the general meaning of a simplified text
book or article, reading very slowly. |
CAN write a very short simple narrative or description,
such as 'My last holiday'. |
A1
ALTE breakthrough level |
CAN understand basic instructions on class times, dates
and room numbers, and on assignments to be carried out. |
CAN read basic notices and instructions. |
CAN copy times, dates and places from notices on classroom
board or notice board. |
