REFERENCE LEVELS
The reference levels are scales in which the successive degrees of mastery that can be achieved in the learning of a second language are described.
Traditionally it has been spoken of four levels: beginner, intermediate, advanced and superior. Launched in 2001, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) proposes a new scale of six levels, divided into three large groups: basic user, independent user and proficient user.
All my classess follow the division and guidelines of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and the Curriculum of the Instituto Cervantes.
The following division of levels corresponds to the division of the CEFR.
DESCRIPTION OF EACH LEVEL
LEVEL A1: Breakthrough
The classes at this level (A1) are designed for students who do not possess any knowledge of the Spanish language. After students have completed the lessons of this level, they will have a basic understanding of fundamental structures and begin to express themselves in writing and oral Spanish. They will have the ability to understand short messages, when articulated clearly and slowly. They will be able to discuss daily situations at a basic level.
LEVEL A2: Waystage
The classes at this elementary or lower intermediate level (A2) are suitable for students with some previous knowledge of the Spanish. These lessons begin with the revision of fundamental structures and basic vocabulary with new structures introduced progressively. At the end of the classes students will be able to describe and express in simple terms the different aspects of daily situations in their own experiences.
LEVEL B1: Threshold
The classes at this intermediate level (B1) are focused toward the students who strive to broaden their understanding of the Spanish language and are able to understand texts in a standard language form, dealing with subjects the student is knowledgeable about. At the end of these lessons, students will be able to produce simple but coherent texts about subjects of personal interest. Students will be able to describe experiences, events, wishes and aspirations as well as justify briefly their own opinions and explain their future plans.
LEVEL B2: Vantage
At this upper intermediate level (B2), students will become independent speakers of Spanish and will be able to express themselves with clarity. The objective of this level is to enhance the students’ ability to justify their opinion and create coherent speeches both when expressing themselves orally and in writing. General, academic, professional, cultural and leisure time subjects will be used for the application of structures, both formal and informal, according to each situation.
LEVEL C1: Effective Operational Proficiency
At this level students can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning. They can express themself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.
LEVEL C2: Mastery
Students at this level can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarise information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations.