the CEFR and 4SKILLS
Common European Framework of Reference
Overview to topics on this page
When you perform an English test, you get a score. You'll also get some indication of what that score means, expressed as an English level or label, for example "beginner" or "advanced". There are many different English leveling systems in use around the world, and an even wider variety of English tests, which have implicit or explicit leveling systems built into their scoring system. Some English levelling schemes are built into a particular English test, while others are theoretical frameworks without any associated test.
What is CEFR?
The CEFR, Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, is one of many frameworks that describe your language proficiency. There are several frameworks with similar aims including the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Proficiency Guidelines (ACTFL), the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB), and the Interagency Language Roundtable scale (ILR).
While the CEFR is a European scale and specifically designed to apply to any European language, it is now becoming a worldwide standard framework for language abilities, especially European languages, including English. The CEFR is not tied to any specific language test - and most standardized language tests now provide CEFR level equivalents.
4SKILLS and the CEFR
4SKILLS has been designed to align to full CEFR spectrum from the very beginning. The CEFR sets out six levels of foreign language mastery, and 4SKILLS is aligned as below:
A1
Beginner
C1
Advanced
A2
Elementary
B1
Intermediate
B2
Upper Intermediate
What is the background of CEFR?
The CEFR frame is produced by the Council of Europe in the 1990’s as part of a wider effort to promote collaboration between language professionals across all European countries. The Council of Europe also improved clarity for employers and educational institutions who needed to evaluate candidates’ language proficiency. The framework is intended to be used in both teaching and assessment & measurement.
The CEFR is based on can-do statements that list the functions you will be able to perform using a foreign language at any given level of proficiency.
How to define CEFR level
The best way to find out your CEFR level is to take a well-designed standardized test. In English, 4SKILLS Assessment is the best choice because it is free and the first standardized test to be fully aligned to the CEFR. You will need to set aside 175 minutes to complete the test and find out your CEFR level in 4 skills- Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing..
