Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
​The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR) is an international standard used to describe the linguistic skills of foreign language learners. It was developed by the Council of Europe and first published in 2001. The main objective of the CEFR is to provide a common basis for the development of language programmes, exams, manuals and other educational resources throughout Europe.
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Purposes of the CEFR
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Unification of Criteria: Establish common criteria for the evaluation of linguistic competence, allowing a precise and fair comparison between different educational systems and countries.
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Transparency: Provide a clear and detailed description of the language skills needed at each level of proficiency.
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Mobility: Facilitate academic and professional mobility through mutual recognition of language qualifications.
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Structure of the CEFR
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The CEFR describes language competence in six levels ranging from basic user to proficient user. These levels are:
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A1 (Beginner)
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A2 (Basic)
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B1 (Intermediate)
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B2 (Upper Intermediate)
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C1 (Advanced)
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C2 (Master)
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Each level is defined by skills in listening comprehension, reading comprehension, oral expression and written expression.
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Level Descriptors
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The CEFR provides specific descriptors for each level and skill, detailing what learners can do in the language in different contexts. These descriptors allow educators and examiners to objectively assess and classify language competencies.
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CEFR Applications
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Education: Guides the development of curricula, teaching materials and study programs, ensuring that learning goals are clear and achievable.
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Assessment: Assists in the design of language proficiency exams and tests, providing a basis for certification and international recognition.
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Professional Development: Facilitates the development of training and certification plans for foreign language teachers, promoting high standards in language teaching.
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Academic and Professional Mobility: Supports the validation and recognition of linguistic competencies in academic and work contexts, facilitating mobility and international opportunities.
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Methodological Principles
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The CEFR is based on several key methodological principles:
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Communicative Approach: The emphasis is on the ability to communicate effectively in real situations.
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Task Orientation: Learning and assessment focus on the performance of specific tasks that require the use of the language.
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Scalability: The CEFR descriptors are applicable to a wide variety of contexts and audiences, from primary education to vocational training.
CEFR Specification – Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
A1
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Beginner
Can understand and use everyday expressions of very frequent use, as well as simple phrases aimed at meeting immediate needs. Can introduce themselves and others, and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know, and things they have, as long as the other person speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to cooperate.
A2
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Basic
Is able to understand frequently used phrases and expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (basic information about themselves and their family, shopping, places of interest, occupations, etc.). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a straightforward and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of their past and their environment, as well as matters related to their immediate needs.
B1
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Intermediate
Can understand the main points of clear texts in standard language if they deal with familiar topics, whether in work, study, or leisure situations. Can handle most situations that may arise during a trip to areas where the language is spoken. Can produce simple and coherent texts on topics that are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences, events, desires, and aspirations, as well as briefly justify their opinions or explain their plans.
B2
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Upper Intermediate
Capable of understanding the main ideas of complex texts dealing with both concrete and abstract topics, even if they are technical in nature as long as they are within their field of specialization. Able to interact with native speakers with a sufficient degree of fluency and naturalness, so that communication takes place effortlessly for both interlocutors. Can produce clear and detailed texts on a wide range of topics and explain a point of view on a current issue by indicating the pros and cons of different options.
C1
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Advanced
Capable of understanding a wide variety of long and demanding texts, as well as recognizing implicit meanings within them. Expresses fluently and spontaneously without showing an obvious effort to find the right expression. Can use the language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. Able to produce clear, well-structured, and detailed texts on complex subjects, demonstrating correct use of organization, articulation, and text cohesion mechanisms.
C2
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Mastery
Understands almost everything heard or read with ease. Can reconstruct information and arguments from various sources, whether spoken or written, and present them coherently and concisely. Expresses spontaneously, with great fluency and with a degree of precision that allows differentiating subtle nuances of meaning even in more complex situations.