Level four (TORFL-4)

This level is referred to as an advanced stage of proficiency close to the native-speaker level. It provides high-level final qualification in the language. This level is obligatory for receiving a Master of Arts degree and is recognized for academic purposes in the field of the Russian language. Test includes five components (subtests).

Reading Candidates are expected to understand the gist, detailed content, tone and register of various kinds of texts: of abstract, professional or general interest nature as well as fiction. There are four texts in the test, giving a total of about 4000 words. There are 25 items. Task types: multiple choice (3-4 choices), text reconstruction, open cloze.

Writing Candidates are expected to write their own versions of heard and read texts, to show the ability to analyze the information according to its pragmatic means. In addition, candidates must write a composition of a descriptive, narrative or discursive nature (an article, an essay, a letter). They must also write their own texts of a discursive or imperative nature. Candidates must complete three tasks: 1) to compile their own text on the basis of heard or read information; 2, 3 - write a composition without background texts.

Listening Candidates are expected to extract information, interpret speakers' attitudes and recognize the implications of stress and intonation. Texts take the form of radio and TV features, extracts from fiction films, public speeches, etc. There are four parts and 25 items in the test: 1) short dialogue; 2) polylogue; 3) public speech; 4) public interview. Task type: multiple choice.

Speaking Candidates are expected to achieve any aims in both prepared and non-prepared communication, including public speaking, showing skills necessary to build up their communicational strategy and to influence the audience There are three parts of the test: 1) in this task the use a tape recorder is essential. Candidates' guided replies corresponding to the communicative task are recorded; 2) role-play with an Examiner; 3) producing the imperative monologue moving into a dialogue-interview with an Examiner. Candidates are tested by two Examiners ( an Interlocutor and an Assessor).

Structural competence Candidates are expected to be able to demonstrate their knowledge of the linguistic system, to use actively structural, grammatical and lexical units in separate short texts as well as in extracts from larger texts taking into account their stylistic usage and ability to use appropriate lexical and grammatical means of the Russian language. The test contains the following task types: multiple choice (3-4 choices), finding equivalents and text reconstruction, the total number of items being 100.

Weighing of components All components are of equal value - 20% each.

Results There are three pass grades: A, B and C and certificates are awarded to all successful candidates. Candidates who achieve grade D are judged not to have achieved the required standard for TORFL - 4.