How are Language Skills Measured?

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The level of proficiency is, at first glance, very subjective. However, a standard was created to meause language proficiency in all levels, as well as most language. This standard is called the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a widely recognized framework used to describe language proficiency levels in a standardized manner across Europe and beyond. It was developed by the Council of Europe to provide a common basis for the teaching, learning, and assessment of languages.

The CEFR divides language proficiency into six levels, ranging from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient/native-like). Here's a brief overview of each level:

1. A1 - Beginner:

   - Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type.

   - 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.

2. A2 - Elementary:

   - Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment).

   - Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.

3. B1 - Intermediate:

   - Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.

   - Can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.

4. B2 - Upper Intermediate:

   - Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization.

   - Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.

5. C1 - Advanced:

   - Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning.

   - Can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.

6. C2 - Proficiency:

   - Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read.

   - Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments, and accounts in a coherent presentation.

The CEFR provides a standardized way to assess language proficiency, aiding learners, educators, and employers in understanding and comparing language skills across different contexts and languages. It's widely used in language education, curriculum development, and language testing throughout Europe and is increasingly recognized internationally as a reference point for language proficiency.

References:

European Centre for Modern Languages. (n.d.). Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Retrieved from Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR) - Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) (coe.int) 

European Commission. (n.d.). European Language Levels - Self Assessment Grid. Retrieved from CEFR self-assessment grid EN.pdf (europa.eu)