What are the levels of knowledge of English. Upper-Intermediate - a level sufficient for living abroad

Many of us started learning a foreign language in the school class or children's club. But, since in youth, instead of studying, other things are more interesting, only a few managed to achieve perfect knowledge of the English language. At the same time, most of those who started training, it’s not that they didn’t learn anything at all. On the contrary, it is enough to encounter some kind of construction or word, and memories begin to emerge in my head. But composing a phrase on your own is already problematic, because there is not enough knowledge of vocabulary and grammar. Therefore, for those who want to return to study again, it will be useful to familiarize themselves with such a concept as levels of study. of English language. In this material, we will learn what they mean and how to compare our knowledge with them.

AT modern society owning at least one foreign language is considered rather not prestigious, but quite a natural factor. Knowledge of English is required by many employers, and foreign trips without possessing at least basic language skills are difficult. This is where the answer to the title question lies: determining the level of English is necessary in order to achieve your goals without wasting precious time. The traveler will be satisfied with the first stage of knowledge, and the worker international company need to achieve the most upper levels. In addition, if you have already started training, then you do not need to stagnate for several months, repeating the material already studied. It will be much more effective to start classes from a stage that requires a lot of effort.

What are the levels of learning English?

In the middle of the last century, when international globalization began to intensify, the European Council was created - a body responsible for cooperation between countries in various fields. This organization is known mainly for the development of a human rights convention, but it has also done many other things. In particular, this body has developed international classification degree of knowledge of foreign languages ​​( CEFR), which is now used all over the world. And it is precisely according to it that we will analyze the stages of learning English today, for each of which their own requirements are put forward for written and oral speech as well as listening comprehension.

Initial stage ( beginner)

During this period, elementary language norms and a minimum vocabulary are mastered. Here and in the following cases, each stage is subdivided into two levels. Consider their differences using the table.

As a rule, people who studied English at school have one of the levels of the initial stage. If, after looking at the table, you still could not determine the quality of your preparation, then we recommend that you resort to the help of specially compiled tests to determine the level.

middle stage ( intermediate)

The most common degree of foreign language proficiency. As a rule, people reach an understanding of most of the constructions and logic of someone else's speech, on which there is an interest in studied language is gradually fading away. Perfectly comprehend the secrets of foreign speech only a few. We will analyze what you need to be able to achieve one of the steps of this level.

If you studied English hard at school and then continued your studies diligently at an institute or university, then the intermediate levels for the resumption of learning English are the best fit.

Highest stage ( Advanced)

A very small percentage of English-speaking foreigners have complete knowledge. At these levels, any fine line of language is captured, all grammar, most idioms and expressions are studied. To achieve such heights in English, it is necessary to take a long special course.

If, after reading the material, you still have doubts about your abilities, then we suggest that you undergo additional testing. It will help you determine what levels you have already mastered in the course of learning English. Good luck improving them!

Today, almost everyone strives or simply dreams of becoming fluent in a foreign language. It is for this reason that there are many courses, lessons on learning. If you still decide to use the help of specialists, then, first of all, you need to determine your level of knowledge. What for?

Know English proficiency levels very important. Based on the existing skills and abilities, you can choose the appropriate group so that the learning process is interesting, brings new knowledge, and you did not spend money on courses in vain. Specially designed tests to check the level of English cover its main aspects. The results are very useful and interesting for you. How? To choose directions, a group, set goals and determine the desired results - this is what each of you needs a knowledge test for.

What is it?

Like any test, You are given a task and several possible answers. It may include:

— determination of the temporary form;
- insert a semantic or grammatical construction;
- complete the sentence
- find a mistake, etc.

By using textbooks and reference books during the test, you are doing yourself a disservice. This result, whatever it is, no one except you will know. Therefore, use only existing knowledge.

Language proficiency levels can be divided into several groups. The first of these is Russified classification, which gives only a general idea of ​​the available knowledge:

1. Initial
2. Medium
3. High.

The second one is more extended. Such a classification involves 4 levels and more fully helps to reveal the existing knowledge. It is often used when filling out various questionnaires, for example, in marriage agency when applying for a visa. But, nevertheless, this method of definition is still not ideal.

1. With dictionary;
2. Conversational level;
3. Intermediate level;
4. Free use.

For this reason, the best classification is international. Let us consider in more detail all levels of knowledge of the English language, which allow us to most fully determine the available skills and abilities.

1. Beginner (A1 or Beginner) the level speaks of understanding the basics of the language, alphabet, sounds, the ability to read the simplest sentences and words. At this stage, it is very difficult to perceive foreign speech by ear.

2. Elementary (A2 or Elementary) .

With this level, an English learner can easily read small texts and understand the main points. The same is true of listening to speech. Oral speech: involves the ability to briefly talk about yourself, about others, talk on everyday topics, while presenting your speech and thoughts logically. It is important to note the phonetic side: not perfect pronunciation, but acceptable to be understood. Writing: the ability to write a request, notice, compose brief description anything in simple sentences.

3. Weak average level (B1 or Lower (Pre) Intermediate).

Understanding the main idea and meaning of the text, reading simple works. Oral speech: clear pronunciation, the ability to easily communicate on personal and non-personal topics, understand the question and answer accordingly, clearly express one's feelings, desires and intentions. Written speech of this level assumes that the student knows how to describe a situation, a person, a place, express his opinion, write a formal letter or request, construct a sentence grammatically correctly.

4. Intermediate level gives a secondary school and assumes the ability to read books, watch films, write, while observing phonetic and grammatical norms language. It is quite easy to perceive foreign speech by ear. The basics of vocabulary help to build communication not only at the level of the question of the answer, but also to express a personal attitude, personal opinion, to distinguish the general meaning of the speech of foreigners, to distinguish official information from unofficial.

5. Above average (B2 or Upper Intermediate) This level assumes the presence of some knowledge, which helps to feel confident when communicating. Knowledge of grammatical rules, norms, the ability to easily perceive information aloud from the first listening, distinguish between accents, talk on the phone, read magazines and books in a foreign language. Oral speech is built on the use of idioms, phrasal verbs, colloquial and official lexical units. Some mistakes are allowed.

6. Advanced (C1 or Advanced 1): excellent command of the language, free communication on any topic, easy speech perception, knowledge of the intricacies of grammar.

7. Perfection (C2 or Advanced 2 (Proficiency)) It is not enough to say - to communicate freely. This stage assumes knowledge of English, almost like a native.

After considering all levels of English, determine yours. But remember that this is only a conditional description. It is still better to test your knowledge in a test that can be taken online.

We continue our acquaintance with the levels of knowledge of English. When you are already in the process of learning a language, you want to have a clear idea at what stage you are, what you already know and what you should strive for in the future. Therefore, we continue to get acquainted with the levels of knowledge of English and offer you the next level of language proficiency (according to the CEFR system). Perhaps this is just your level! So, the hero of the occasion today is the B1 Intermediate level. Let's see what it's made of!

Intermediate level - what does it mean?

Today, this level of English proficiency is considered fairly confident. In fact, this is a kind of golden mean. On the one hand, there is no longer any fear to use the language in speech, as there is an established vocabulary and a good grammar base, and on the other hand, there is no limit to perfection, and, of course, there is something to strive for in the future (Profeciency?). But still, what does it mean English is not lower than Intermediate?

Intermediate level students can take part in everyday conversation on familiar topics and share information. Often, it is from this level that fruitful preparation for the subsequent passing of international exams begins: FCE (a test for English language proficiency at an upper-intermediate level), IELTS ( international system assessment of English language proficiency), TOEFL (test of knowledge of English as a foreign language); if there is such a need.

The Intermediate level program includes the study of the following topics.

What does the course at the Intermediate level include?

The Intermediate English course is based on four elements: listening comprehension, speaking, reading and, finally, writing skills. This approach allows you to learn how to quickly formulate thoughts, improve phonetic skills, and also gain a sense of language. Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to:

• discuss personal and professional plans for the future;
• pass an interview in English for a job in a foreign company;
• talk about your attitude to television and your favorite television series;
• justify your preferences in music;
• talk about healthy way life and healthy habits;
• visit restaurants, order food, take part in conversation at dinner and pay for the order;
• Discuss rules of etiquette and advice on how to respond to inappropriate behavior.

The term of study to reach the Intermediate level

In fact, the duration of training depends entirely on the motivation and interest of the student, as well as the already existing foundation of knowledge. On average, the course takes about six months, based on two full lessons per week with a private English teacher. It should be understood that learning a language is a systematic process, which is based on the knowledge that you have received earlier. For this reason, if the student already has a thorough understanding of the lexico-grammatical aspects of the language, then learning will be much faster. If you realize that there are gaps in some topics, then, firstly, in no case be upset, and, secondly, try to fully master necessary material and then boldly move on to the next level. With the second option, training may take a little longer, but as a result, the student will have a complete picture of the level of the language in all its manifestations.

Your goal as an Intermediate student is to surround yourself with the English language completely and completely. In this case, special attention can be paid to those topics and aspects that are of interest to you or are directly related to professional activity. Below are a few strategies that will improve your English language skills in the future:

• change the language settings of the devices, Email, accounts in in social networks into English. This way you will constantly use English in everyday life;
• read as much as you can in English. For starters, you can give preference to modern magazines or articles from news newspapers. If you are studying or working in the field international relations, business and finance, gradually switch to the English version of the Financial Times or the Wall Street Journal. Remember to take notes and pay attention to word combinations and turns of speech;
• listen to audiobooks and podcasts. Focus on the version of English that you need: British, American or, for example, Australian;
• if you listen to modern music, you can safely go to karaoke with friends or find the lyrics of your favorite English songs and sing them at home. Don't be shy!

Conclusion

Here we have discussed English level B1. Found out what lexical and grammar topics owned by a medium rare student. We also got acquainted with life hacks, learned how to maintain knowledge of the English language, and what should be done next. The Intermediate level is a great option for those who are going to travel frequently and stay up to date with the events of the modern world. Sign up for our English courses via Skype and achieve your goals with pleasure. You can do that!

Big and friendly family EnglishDom

Intermediate defines average depth knowledge. It includes a fairly wide list of skills.

This level is preceded by another, which is called Pre-Intermediate and assumes an average knowledge of the language. They switch to Intermediate when they want to learn how to talk not only on ordinary topics, but also be able to discuss professional situations. The Intermediate level provides an understanding of the normal pace of spoken language by native speakers. The ability to read both fiction and business literature also contributes to this. There are many other skills that characterize the English Intermediate level.

Perhaps the most an important factor is that language proficiency at the Intermediate level is mandatory for admission to language universities. Many employers indicate that they need employees who speak English at the Intermediate level. So mastering this stage is very important.

Language Proficiency Levels

Many English textbooks are signed as for intermediate students. This means that they are designed for mastering the intermediate level of English. Students graduating from non-linguistic universities have this level of language. But where did this name come from?

The Common English Proficiency Scale was created by the ALTE Association. They identified six possible levels of language acquisition:

1. Beginner - initial. This is the level of those who are just starting to learn English. A person at this level learns the alphabet, phonetics, grammar, vocabulary, starting with the simplest sentences and questions.
2. Pre-Intermediate - below average. A person with this level of knowledge already knows how to build sentences, can briefly talk about a common topic.
3. Intermediate - medium. A level that allows you to travel and learn new things. The vocabulary increases significantly, a person can already support a conversation, express his own thoughts, talk with a native speaker, travel freely around the world.
4. Upper-Intermediate - above average. This level is for practical use communication skills. It is most in demand in the fields of education and business. With knowledge of the language at this level, you can even enter a foreign university.
5. Advanced 1 - advanced. It is necessary for specialists. This level is also studied by people who want to speak, read and write fluently in English. With this level you can get prestigious job in another country.
6. Advanced 2 - super-advanced. This is the level of native speakers. It is simply impossible to learn a language better than them.

All exams in Cambridge are tied to this scale. Publishers rely on it when releasing dictionaries for learners of English. Each reference book, exercise book, book for learning a language must indicate the level, the possession of which allows you to use this publication.

Mastery of the Intermediate level allows a person to conduct conversations in everyday topics. He can read and write well in English and is fluent in colloquial speech knows the grammar of the language well.

Knowledge of English at the Intermediate level allows students to enter language universities and even try themselves in Western educational institutions.

Requirements for students who know the Intermediate level

What can a student with an average level of language knowledge? He can take an interest in the opinion of his interlocutor, he can clearly talk about what he feels, express his own ideas. Such students are able to show that they did not understand the interlocutor, they can ask to repeat what was said.

What does the Intermediate level mean? People around, even foreigners, can understand the pronunciation of a person who owns this level. A person is able to use the correct intonation, place stress in words. The vocabulary is quite wide.

The Intermediate level also means that the person understands the tasks of the exercises. He can distinguish by pronunciation whether English is native to his interlocutor.

The Intermediate level is the ability to write letters, both personal and official, correct filling questionnaires and declarations. A person who owns the Intermediate level can express his thoughts grammatically correctly.

How do you know that you have an intermediate level of language proficiency?

Many people study the language, but not everyone knows such a concept as the Intermediate level, what it means and what their own knowledge is. People can evaluate their knowledge by talking to a teacher. But there is also the possibility of self-determination of their level.

Speaking skills

How well do you know English? The Intermediate level, which means "average", makes the following requirements for speaking skills:

• The ability to correctly compose familiar words into sentences, use the right intonation, express emotions and determine the emotions of your interlocutor.
• The ability to express one's thoughts in an accessible and correct way without experiencing problems with pronunciation.
• If at some point in the conversation it turned out to be incomprehensible, a person who owns the Intermediate level can report his problem to the interlocutor and ask him to repeat the last words.
• Easily and quickly select synonyms for words, understand verbal turns, determine their meaning in context.

Reading skills

The Intermediate level allows a person to understand the main essence of the text, even if individual words remain unknown. He can analyze the read text, express his own opinion about what he read. The exception is highly specialized texts, replete with terminology.

A person with an Intermediate level, after reading the text, understands the style of its writing. He can understand the meaning of popular phraseological units, as well as stable turns that are used in the text.

Writing skills

Knowledge of the language at the Intermediate level allows you to write personal and official letters, fill out business papers. A person can write and grammatically correct short stories in the style necessary for narration.

These are the basic skills of a person who has an Intermediate level. What does this mean in general? The ability to grammatically correct, using a large vocabulary, compose texts both in written and in spoken form.

Courses by Intermediate level

Many educational establishments offer to improve the knowledge of the language to the intermediate level. In this case completed courses will be able:

• Freely communicate on everyday topics.
• Correctly formulate your emotions, explain your attitude to the events around.
• Conduct constructive dialogues with the interlocutor, ask for his opinion and even argue in the language.
• Competently put stress and intonation in words, be able to determine in which cases this or that intonation is used. This will allow him to emphasize his emotional state.
• Improve pronunciation.
• Learn to understand speech by ear.
• Understand the interlocutor not only by his words, but also by intonations.
• Identify native speakers and those who simply speak it well.
• Grammatically correct to provide information about yourself, in writing or orally, to maintain an informal conversation.
• The Intermediate level also allows you to invent artistic stories on one's own.

Proficiency in the language at the Intermediate level will allow a person to confidently travel around developed countries without translators and without fear of getting into an awkward situation.

Conclusion

Knowledge of English at the Intermediate level allows a person to feel confident in many situations. He can read books, communicate with native speakers and even write business letters. With this knowledge, you can get a good job. Intermediate - an average level of language proficiency, which is enough to feel confident while traveling in