Track Your Speaking Progress with FLOW Speak Using CEFR

What is the CEFR ?

The Common European Framework of Reference or CEFR is a six-level scale (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) used to describe proficiency in a foreign language. CEFR was launched into practice in Europe in 2001. Since then, the CEFR scale has been adopted by non-European nations as well because it can be applied to all languages (The CEFR Levels). 

How does CEFR work?

CEFR provides a globally-applicable scale to determine language proficiency by defining specific competencies to achieve at each level. The subjective terms “beginner,” “intermediate,” and “advanced” are replaced with the descriptors of ability provided by the CEFR. This provides a standard list of competencies and abilities a student must be able to accomplish in order to determine their level. 

CEFR Levels and Descriptions

Basic User ( Beginner )‍
The basic user levels include A1 and A2. Language learners in these levels can understand and use familiar expressions and basic phrases. A1 learners are the most basic users, limited to short and familiar questions and phrases with a helpful, slow-speaking conversation partner. At A2, language users will have a slightly bigger vocabulary and may begin to participate in simple exchanges and tasks on familiar and routine matters (Global Scale).

Independent User ( Intermediate )
‍Language learners with B1 and B2 are considered “independent users.” These learners can understand the main point or gist of most conversations or written texts, and begin to communicate with less support. At B1, a language user is described as being able to handle most situations while traveling in an area where the target language is spoken. At B2, language users are able to interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity, and they can communicate with native speakers without “significant strain for either party” (Global Scale).

Proficient User ( Advanced )‍
Proficient users have levels C1 and C2. These learners are approaching native fluency and can communicate and interact in the target language in more demanding and complex contexts. At C1, a language user can understand complex texts on various topics and understand implicit meaning. At C1, users can employ “language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes.” C2 is the highest level in CEFR. At C2, a language user can express themselves spontaneously, fluently, and precisely, and comprehend written and spoken language with ease (Global Scale).

Why Use CEFR for Language Learning?

CEFR was designed to be generally applicable to all languages. This means it provides a common framework that can be used and understood globally. Developed as a standard for Europe, CEFR has also gained popularity in non-European nations such as Japan, Qatar, the USA, Canada and more. However, the scale received criticism for being too vague in its general application. To provide context for language instructors and assessors, CEFR created language-specific guides, called ‘Reference Level Descriptions.’ 

For English language learners, the globally recognized IELTS exam has been carefully researched to align with the CEFR levels. An IELTS score of 9 is about equal to a CEFR score of C2 (IELTS, 2023). As well, the Cambridge English Qualifications exams use the CEFR scales. See the below chart of CEFR equivalencies to popular English exam scores.

Who accepts CEFR?

CEFR is increasingly accepted globally. Many post-secondary institutions, employers and some countries’ immigration requirements accept CEFR levels as proof of English proficiency. Academic institutions such as the University of Oxford, the University of Toronto, New York University, and the University of Melbourne accept CEFR scores through Cambridge English Qualifications exams and other approved proficiency exams. 

How FLOW Speak Aligns Lessons with CEFR 

FLOW Speak Pathways are designed to guide learners through their English-speaking journey using levels aligned with CEFR. Pathways range from Beginner (guides learners from A2 to B1) up to Advanced (guides learners from B2 to C1). These Pathways provide structured and tailored lessons that bring a learner’s English proficiency to the next level. Learners can select a Pathway based on their current ability and progress from there. Language learners can use Pathways with both Community and Premium memberships. 

FLOW Speak’s alignment with CEFR helps learners to benchmark their language level and progress against a globally recognized scale. Pathways are broken into 3 smaller levels which guide learners through both professional and casual scenarios to build a variety of language skills. This allows learners to achieve a well-rounded speaking ability on a scale they can understand and easily express to others.

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References

Council of Europe. (n.d.). The CEFR Levels - Common European Framework of Reference for
Languages (CEFR). Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
(CEFR). https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages
/level-descriptions 

Council of Europe. (n.d.). Global scale - Table 1 (CEFR 3.3): Common Reference levels.
Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). https://www.coe.int
/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/table-1-cefr-3.3-common-
reference-levels-global-scale 

IELTS. (2023, November 17). Everything you need to know about IELTS and the CEFR.
https://ielts.org/news-and-insights/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ielts-and-the-cefr