THE CAN-DO STATEMENTS

The ALTE exams are placed at one of 6 levels (Breakthrough, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). The levels are described by a series of Can-do statements, which:

• define levels of ability in terms of what language users can typically do at each level of the ALTE Framework

• make it easier for users to understand what each level means in relation to what language users actually do.

The Can-do system comprises approximately 400 statements, sub-divided into 40 categories, which describe what typical language users can do:

• in a particular language

• at a particular level

• in one of the skill areas (Listening/Speaking, Writing, Reading).

The Can-do statements exist in 13 languages:

Developing the ALTE level and Can-do system

The statements were developed through a rigorous process involving leading experts on language assessment and applied linguistics.

Data was collected from 10,000 language learners throughout Europe.

Research has taken place showing the relationship of the ALTE levels to the Common European Framework.

The four Can-do statement tables in this section illustrate:

1. Typical general ability at each level and in the skill areas (Overall general ability)

2. Typical ability in the Social & Tourist context at each level and in the skill areas (ALTE Social & Tourist typical abilities)

3. Typical ability in the Work context at each level and in the skill areas (ALTE Work typical abilities)

4. Typical ability in the Study context at each level and in the skill areas (ALTE Study typical abilities).