B 2: I can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers
quite possible. I can take an active part in discussion in familiar contexts, accounting for and sustaining my
views.
C 1: I can express myself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. I can use
language flexibly and effectively for social and professional purposes. I can formulate ideas and opinions with
precision and relate my contribution skilfully to those of other speakers.
C 2: I can take part effortlessly in any conversation or discussion and have a good familiarity with idiomatic
expressions and colloquialisms. I can express myself fluently and convey finer shades of meaning precisely. If
I do have a problem I can backtrack and restructure around the difficulty so smoothly that other people are
hardly aware of it.
Spoken production
A 1: I can use simple phrases and sentences to describe where I live and people I know.
A 2: I can use a series of phrases and sentences to describe, in simple terms, my family and other people, living
conditions, my educational background and my present or most recent job.
B 1: I can connect phrases in a simple way in order to describe experiences and events, my dreams, hopes and
ambitions. I can briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. I can narrate a story or relate the
plot of a book or film and describe my reactions.
B 2: I can present clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of subjects related to my field of interest. I can
explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
C 1: I can present clear, detailed descriptions of complex subjects integrating sub-themes, developing particular
points and rounding off with an appropriate conclusion.
C 2: I can present a clear, smoothly-flowing description or argument in a style appropriate to the context and with
an effective logical structure which helps the recipient to notice and remember significant points.
Writing
A 1: I can write a short, simple postcard, for example sending holiday greetings. I can fill in forms with personal
details, for example entering my name, nationality and address on a hotel registration form.
A 2: I can write short, simple notes and messages. I can write a very simple personal letter, for example thanking
someone for something.
B 1: I can write simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. I can write personal
letters describing experiences and impressions.
B 2: I can write clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects related to my interests. I can write an essay or
report, passing on information or giving reasons in support of or against a particular point of view. I can write
letters highlighting the personal significance of events and experiences.
C 1: I can express myself in clear, well-structured text, expressing points of view at some length. I can write about
complex subjects in a letter, an essay or a report, underlining what I consider to be the salient issues. I can
select a style appropriate to the reader in mind.
C 2: I can write clear, smoothly-flowing text in an appropriate style. I can write complex letters, reports or articles
which present a case with an effective logical structure which helps the recipient to notice and remember
significant points. I can write summaries and reviews of professional or literary works.
The complete self-assessment grid can be accessed from the website of the Council of Europe under
1/main_pages/levels.html
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