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Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR)

All courses of the Language Center are assigned levels according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. This framework has been developed by the Language Policy Division of the Council of Europe to provide a basis for the mutual recognition of language qualifications, thus facilitating educational and occupational mobility and the comparison of language certificates.

The CEFR is a document which describes the competences necessary for communication, the related knowledge and skills, and the situations and domains of communication. It is divided into six levels of competence, the so-called 'Can Do' descriptors. These descriptors serve as the classes’ learning goals.

Proficient User

C2

Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. 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 more complex situations.

C1

Independent User

B2

Can understand the main ideas of complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his / her 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. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

B1

Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

Basic User

A2

Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very 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. Can describe in simple terms aspects of his / her background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need.

A1

Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce him / herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he / she lives, people he / she knows and things he / she has. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.

How fast do you get from A to B to C?

Learning a language is a time-consuming process. Attending only one class on a certain level does not automatically lead to the next level in the next semester. Therefore, some of the classes are structured into part 1 and part 2, for example, B1.1 and B1.2. This structure will help you to plan the time you may need to reach a certain level.

Other instruments of self-assessment

If you not an absolute beginner to the language, you may want a self-assessment before you take the assessment test of the Modern Language Center. Specially made for this is the European Language Portfolio or the DIALANG-Test (installed on the computers of the self-study center).

Can I practice individual skills with the classes the Modern Language Center offers?

According to personal learning goals or study requirements some skills can be more important than others. Some subjects require good reading skills while skills in writing are less important. Still others want to revise their grammar skills while others need speaking skills for their studies and later careers. Within the range of classes of our program you find courses specializing in single or combined skills.

How can I certify my language skills?

After you pass the requirements of the class you will receive a language certificate that includes the course contents, a grade and the CEFR-level. For academic exchange-programs and internship-funding you may need a standardized language certificate (e.g. DAAD, ISA or bvmd) based on a 60-minutes language test. For more information and test dates, contact our language coordinators.