Everything you wanted to know about levels A1, A2 in English. European Framework of Reference for Languages

Friends, if you want to know more about levels A1 and A2 in studying English language, then we invite you to read this material carefully; Perhaps you will learn a lot of interesting and useful things for yourself.

As you already know, learning English is divided into stages or levels, each level has a certain degree of difficulty, specific tasks and exercises, reading, grammar, etc. Today we are taking a closer look at the initial or survival levels, that is, Beginner and Elementary , as well as the Pre-Intermediate threshold level.

Category A1 - what is it?

It would seem that the Beginner and Elementary stages of English proficiency are in many ways similar. However, significant differences can be observed here. You can't start Elementary level without preliminary preparation Beginner.

Everything starts with the basics, and learning a language even more so. The Beginner level is perfect for those who have never studied English before and don’t have the slightest idea about it. This stage of English language proficiency allows you to build several simple sentences, master the basics of grammar and reading rules, acquire a small vocabulary. It also gives you the opportunity to move on to the next level - Elementary.

The knowledge that the initial level provides is very extensive for this stage of learning English: mastering three simple tenses of verbs (present, past, future), the concept of articles, the ability to compose several simple sentences, the ability to characterize an object in simple words; vocabulary ranges from 500 to 700 words, ability to get to know, respond to simple questions, write a short text of simple sentences.

The Elementary level is a more serious level of knowledge and proficiency in English. And the range of opportunities and skills it provides is much wider. When approaching this level, a person learning English must have basic knowledge initial stage Beginner.

The knowledge acquired at this stage is sufficient to communicate in English at an everyday level. For example, while abroad, you can ask for directions, rent a hotel room, do some shopping, etc.

Your knowledge of grammar, speaking, reading, your vocabulary at this level is much wider and deeper. Of course, such proficiency in English cannot be called professional, but you are no longer a beginner in mastering the language.


What skills does this stage of training provide? Here they are: a clear understanding of the verb to be, mastering verb tenses, including continuous and perfect ones; use of articles and modal verbs, pronouns and possessive case; extension vocabulary from 1000 to 1500, ability to communicate on simple everyday topics, ability to write short story about yourself, about family, about hobbies, about work, etc.

As we have already said, these levels belong to the category of Survival Levels or survival levels. This means that these levels of knowledge of the English language will help you navigate various everyday situations where English is needed.

We believe that in modern life it is not only useful, but also very important to speak English at least at these two levels, because such proficiency in English is also required modern technologies, and the Internet, and trips, etc.

Category A2 or pre-threshold level

Pre-threshold or intermediate level (Pre-Intermediate) is like a bridge between the basic stages and more advanced levels of English language proficiency. Why is this so? The fact is that this English language course begins with simple constructions learned during the training at the two previous levels. The Pre-Intermediate stage is an excellent opportunity to repeat, consolidate and systematize previous levels and acquired skills, as well as move on to a more complex stage of learning English Language.

By studying English at the Pre-Intermediate level, you gain even greater skills in the language: a clear understanding of verb tenses and the ability to distinguish them, understanding the conditional mood, replenishing your vocabulary with modal verbs that were not previously known; understanding of the passive verb, the ability to transform direct speech into indirect speech, understanding of pronouns and degrees of comparison of adjectives; vocabulary ranges from 1500 to 2000 words; ability to speak English various topics and tell about yourself; understanding the main idea of ​​the text; ability to write essays, essays, letters.

All this suggests that at this level you are ready to perceive and master a more complex English language than at the previous two.

This stage of training allows you to work on the gaps and weak points in your English, improve it, and move on to a more complex level.

Friends, we want to wish you good luck in learning English Language. Don't give up, boldly move forward, and, step by step, level by level, you will not notice how English will become your second native language! See you again!

English level A2 is the second level of language proficiency in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), a system for determining different language levels compiled by the Council of Europe. In everyday speech, this level can be called basic (for example, “I speak basic English”). The term elementary is official description level in the CEFR is the core level. A student who has mastered a basic level of English can meet his or her basic communication needs.

How to determine that you know English at A2 level

The best way Determine whether your knowledge of English corresponds to level A2 - take a high-quality standardized test. Below is a list of the main internationally recognized tests and their corresponding A2 scores:

What can you do with an A2 level of English?

Level of English A2 is sufficient for tourist travel in an English-speaking country and communication with native English speakers. However, level A2 is considered insufficient to establish deeper friendships. The A2 level of English also allows you to collaborate with English-speaking colleagues, but work communication in English is limited to well-known topics at the A2 level. A2 level of English is not enough to conduct scientific research or to understand English-language media (television, cinema, radio, magazines, etc.).

According to official instructions CEFR, student proficient in English at level A2:

  1. Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to major areas of life to which it is directly related (e.g., basic information about family, shopping, geography, employment).
  2. Can communicate within simple and everyday tasks that require a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar or everyday topics.
  3. Can describe in simple terms individual aspects of his past, present, as well as issues related to areas with which he, she, and she directly interact.

Read more about knowledge of English at Level A2

Formal assessments of a student's knowledge are broken down into smaller sub-items for teaching purposes. Such a detailed classification will help you assess your own level of English or help your teacher assess the level of your students. For example, a student with an A2 level of English can:

  • evaluate the work of a colleague at work.
  • talk about the events of your life.
  • describe your past by giving detailed information about the most important milestones.
  • entertain guests at home or visit a friend or colleague at his/her home.
  • discuss your holiday plans and tell friends and colleagues about your holiday afterwards.
  • talk about nature and travel.
  • talk about your favorite movies and choose a movie to watch with friends.
  • discuss clothes and what kind of clothes he/she would like to wear.
  • participate in key discussions at work, including speaking in meetings about familiar topics.
  • describe an accident or injury, receive medical care from the doctor and fill out a prescription for medications.
  • participate in simple business negotiations, greeting guests and attending general events.
  • Understand and communicate basic business propositions in your area of ​​expertise.
  • discuss and explain the rules of the games.

Of course, progress will depend on the type of course and the individual student, but it can be predicted that a student will achieve an A2 level of English proficiency in 200 hours of study (total).

To more accurately track progress in learning foreign languages, a certain system has been invented. This article will talk about what level B2 is (level of English - above average).

English language levels

There is a pan-European scale that assesses the level of proficiency in any foreign language. English name- Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This is a certain system of standards that allows you to determine Conventionally, knowledge of the language is divided into 6 levels: from A1 to C2. Each of these levels also corresponds to certain indicators of other assessment systems. This table shows the relationship between levels of language proficiency in various assessment systems.

CEFRIH LevelIELTSTOEFLCambridge
Examination
A1Beginner
A2Elementary

B1
Pre-Intermediate3.5 - 4.0 32 - 42 KET
Intermediate4.5 - 5.0 42 - 62 PET
B2Upper-Intermediate5.5 - 6.0 63 - 92 FCE
C1Advanced6.5 - 7.0 93 - 112 CAE
C2Proficiency7.5 - 9.0 113 + CPE

When can I start learning English at the Upper-Intermediate level?

The division between levels of knowledge of any foreign language is very arbitrary, but there are certain indicators by which current progress can be determined.

Levels of English knowledge B2 - C1 correspond practically free ownership written and oral speech. A higher level requires an understanding of terminology in various highly specialized areas, the ability to speak on serious topics, conduct business negotiations and read classic literature in the original. It is difficult to establish clear distinctions between the stages of knowledge. But, before deciding to overcome the B2 level of English, you need to make sure that you are fluent in reading level B1 literature, and also fluent in the basic rules of grammar, can express yourself more or less fluently in the language you are studying, read the press and modern entertainment literature. And although there are still unfamiliar words, this does not affect the overall understanding of the text; you grasp the meaning and understand what is being said.

This system evaluates the linguistic skills of a student studying any foreign language, including English. Level B2, which means “advanced level,” is above average, but at this stage there may still be some shortcomings that require further elaboration.

Knowledge of grammar rules

Of course, grammar is important the most important place when learning any foreign language. Below are the main key topics, knowledge of which is required at the Upper-Intermediate level.

  • Time. B2 - level of English at which you are already fluent in all aspects and clearly understand in which case it is necessary to use Simple, Continuous, Perfect or Perfect Continuous. Besides, you know the table irregular verbs and put it into practice.
  • Understand the usage (Active voice).
  • Know how to convert direct speech into indirect speech.
  • You know modal verbs and know how to use them, understanding the subtle differences between words such as may, might, can, ought,
  • You speak impersonal forms of the verb: participle, infinitive and gerund.

Vocabulary

Considering that good knowledge grammar rules is achieved already at level B1, level of English B2 involves the development of other skills: fluency, listening, reading literature and, of course, increasing vocabulary. At this level, attention should be paid not only to individual words, but also to phraseological units, phrasal verbs and more complex constructions.

One of the most common mistakes when studying any foreign language - the desire to memorize separate lists of words without subsequently using them in your written and spoken speech.

Any new words and phrases should be included in your speech. Those lexical units that are not used will soon be simply forgotten. When reading, write down unfamiliar words and try to make sentences, dialogues, stories or articles with them.

First of all, you should learn those foreign words, the equivalents of which you use in everyday life, talking about yourself, your interests, hobbies, work, goals, loved ones and friends. Another common mistake is trying to memorize lists of words, most of which you may not use often.

One of the best ways is to keep a diary. From the point of view of vocabulary replenishment, this method is useful because you learn to use vocabulary that is directly related to your life. By writing down your own observations, events, goals and dreams every day, you use exactly the same words that you use in your native speech.

Idioms and phraseological units

B2 - level of English, which assumes that you know not only simple words and constructions, but also understand and know how to use a number of idioms. These are figures of speech that are unique to a given language and do not have a literal translation. The meaning of these phraseological units is conveyed by equivalent phrases acceptable for the target language.

Knowing these set expressions will help make your speech more figurative and colorful. The table shows only a small part of all possible phraseological units. You can make your own list of phrases that you will subsequently include in your speech.

Phrasal verbs

In English there is such a thing as phrasal verbs. Most often, this is a combination of a verb with a preposition or adverb, due to which the meaning of the original word changes. These are unique stable phrases that do not obey any rules, exist only as indivisible semantic units and carry a semantic load only in this form.

  • be about - to be nearby;
  • be after - to achieve something;
  • be back - return;
  • break out - unexpectedly begin, break out;
  • bring up - to bring up;
  • call for - to call for someone;
  • clear up - put in order;
  • come about - happen;
  • come across - to meet unexpectedly;
  • look for - search.

Phrasal verbs are quite common in English. However, they are used mainly in everyday speech.

Expanding your vocabulary with synonyms

Try to replace frequently used words with synonyms. This will help make speech more refined, beautiful and refined.

WordSynonyms
beautiful (beautiful, wonderful)
  • aesthetic (aesthetic, artistic);
  • attractive (attractive, tempting);
  • blooming (blooming);
  • comely (comely, pretty);
  • dazzling (dazzling);
  • delicate (refined, refined);
  • elegant (elegant, graceful);
  • exquisite (exquisite, delightful);
  • glorious (magnificent, wonderful);
  • gorgeous (amazing, excellent);
  • handsome (handsome - about a man);
  • lovely (lovely, charming);
  • magnificent (majestic, magnificent);
  • pretty (cute, cute);
  • radiant (radiant, shining);
  • resplendent (brilliant);
  • splendid (luxurious, lush);
  • stunning (amazing, stunning, stunning).
ugly (ugly, ugly)
  • frightening, frightful (terrible, terrible, frightening);
  • ghastly (creepy, disgusting);
  • grisly (unpleasant, terrifying);
  • gruesome (terrible);
  • hideous (repulsive);
  • homely (unsightly);
  • horrible (creepy);
  • horrid (creepy, disgusting);
  • monstrous (ugly, ugly);
  • plain (uncomplicated, unpretentious);
  • repugnant (repulsive, disgusting);
  • repulsive (disgusting);
  • terrifying (frightening);
  • unpleasant (unpleasant);
  • unsightly (ugly, ugly).
happy (happy)
  • blissful (blessed, heavenly);
  • cheerful (cheerful, joyful);
  • contented (happy);
  • delighted (admired, enchanted);
  • ecstatic (frenzied, enthusiastic, ecstatic);
  • elated (jubilant, in high spirits, delighted);
  • glad (satisfied, joyful);
  • joyful (experiencing joy);
  • jubilant (jubilant, triumphant);
  • overjoyed (overjoyed);
  • pleased (pleased).
unhappy (unhappy)
  • dejected (depressed, dejected, depressed);
  • depressed (dull, gloomy);
  • discouraged (disappointed);
  • dismal (gloomy, sad, gloomy);
  • downhearted (despondent, despondent);
  • gloomy (gloomy, sad);
  • glum (gloomy);
  • heart-broken (heartbroken, broken-hearted);
  • melancholy (depressed, sad);
  • miserable (unhappy);
  • poor (poor);
  • sad (sad);
  • sorrowful (sorrowful);
  • unfortunate (unhappy, unsuccessful);
  • wretched (despairing, destitute).

Reading

There is special adapted literature designed for gradual advancement from entry level(A1) to high (C2).

This is predominantly works of art famous authors. The books are adapted in such a way that a specific set of grammatical structures and vocabulary corresponds to a specific level of foreign language proficiency. The best way to figure out what level you are currently at is to read two or three pages and count the number of words you don't know. If you have come across no more than 20-25 new lexical units, then you can start reading this book. To extract maximum benefit from the reading process, it is advisable to write down all unfamiliar words and phrases, and then work on them additionally. That is, include them in your vocabulary when composing stories, dialogues, keeping a diary and writing essays. Otherwise, vocabulary is quickly forgotten. You can move to the next level when you feel that work at this level is becoming boring, and there are practically no new lexical units encountered.

However, level B2 is a level of English that allows you to read not only light books, but also entertaining literature by modern authors, newspapers, and magazines.

Listening comprehension

Like reading literature, there are many adapted audiobooks. If you are still experiencing some difficulties in listening, you can first take aids that correspond more low level. For example, if your grammar and vocabulary are approximately at the B1 level, but you find it difficult to understand English by ear, take A2 level books in audio format. Over time, you will get used to foreign speech.

Some tips:

  • Listen to a chapter of a book without first reading the text. Take a deep dive and determine what you have been able to understand, how acceptable this rate of speech is for you, and whether there are many unfamiliar words.
  • Write down from memory what you learned.
  • Listen again.
  • Read the text, write down unfamiliar words and determine their meaning in a dictionary.
  • Play recording again.

This kind of work will help you as soon as possible get used to speaking English and improve your knowledge.

Levels of English knowledge B2 - C1 allow you to expand your opportunities. For variety, you can include films and TV series in your training. It is advisable to find films with subtitles. However, throughout long period time, it is not advisable to use the method of learning a language by watching films with subtitles. Otherwise, you will get used to reading the text rather than listening to the speech of the actors.

This is one of best methods which will help you master the English language. Level B2 is quite sufficient for watching entertainment shows and series.

Development of writing

In order to learn to write fluently in the language you are learning, you need to devote time to this activity every day. Only regular work will help you begin to speak English more fluently. Choose the most for yourself suitable way. This could be writing stories, essays, keeping a diary or blog, communicating in social networks. Try to enrich your vocabulary daily, including new expressions and constructions. B2 is a level of English that corresponds to an upper-intermediate level, which means you must have the following skills:

  • know how to construct not only simple, but also complex and compound sentences;
  • use different designs;
  • apply set expressions, idioms, phrasal verbs;
  • you can write an essay, story or article on a topic familiar to you;
  • You correspond quite freely with native English speakers, discussing everyday issues.

Oral speech

Upper-Intermediate or B2 - the level of English corresponds to almost fluency in oral communication, provided that you discuss simple everyday topics.

The best way to improve your speaking skills is to communicate with a native English speaker. Levels of knowledge of English B2 - C1 already allow you to communicate quite freely on everyday topics with English speakers. The easiest way is to find friends on social networks or language exchange sites. However, if this is not possible, you can use alternative methods:

  • briefly retell books you’ve read, TV shows or movies you’ve watched;
  • try to describe everything you see: the landscape outside the window, a painting, various objects;
  • Make a list of questions, then try to give a detailed answer to each of them.

It is very difficult to establish clear distinctions between levels of foreign language proficiency. However, this situation will allow us to form general idea and give approximate answers to questions about what English B2 is, what level it is and what knowledge you need to have at this stage of learning.

English level A1 is the first level of language proficiency in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), a system for determining different language levels compiled by the Council of Europe. In everyday speech, this level can be called initial. This term is the official level description in the CEFR and is also used in the EF SET system. In practice, it can correspond to level A1 of English. A student who is just starting to learn English, or does not yet have knowledge of the English language, is at a level below A1.

How to find out that you know English at A1 level

The best way to determine whether you know English at level A1 is to take a high-quality standardized test. Below is a list of the main internationally recognized tests and their corresponding A1 indicators:

What can you do with an A1 level of English?

An A1 level of English will be sufficient for very simple interactions, for example as a tourist in a country where English is spoken. Level A1 will not be sufficient for academic or professional purposes. According to official CEFR guidelines, a person who speaks English at level A1:

  1. Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very simple phrases.
  2. Can introduce himself and others, ask and answer questions about personal information: where he lives, people he knows, and things he has.
  3. Can interact with others in simple conversation if the other person speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to cooperate.

Read more about knowledge of English at Level A1

Formal statements of student knowledge are broken down into smaller sub-items for teaching purposes. Such a detailed classification will help you assess your own level of English or help your teacher assess the level of your students. For example, a student with an A1 level of English can:

  • It's easy to introduce yourself and use basic greetings.
  • say where he and other people are from and give general description of your city.
  • It’s easy to talk about your family and colleagues, describing their appearance and character.
  • discuss clothes on basic level and ask the seller simple questions about it.
  • talk about your favorite foods and make easy take-out orders.
  • talk about your daily activities and organize meetings with friends and colleagues.
  • describe current weather conditions and suggest activities according to the weather forecast.
  • talk in general terms about your health and describe general medical symptoms doctor.
  • describe the location of your house and indicate the direction.
  • talk about your hobbies and interests and make plans for fun activities with friends or colleagues.
  • discuss common products, make basic purchases and return faulty items.

Of course, progress will depend on the type of course and the individual student, but it can be predicted that the student will reach the A1 level of English in 60-80 hours of study.

Do you want to take an English level test right now and find out your level of language proficiency? What are your strengths, and what else remains to be learned? We invite you to take a free test online (no registration or email required), consisting of 60 questions. You will receive the result immediately as soon as you answer the last question.

English level test - instructions

The test determines the level of knowledge of the English language and divides students into 5 groups - from initial (elementary) level to advanced.

The test tests knowledge of language structures (36 questions) and vocabulary (24 questions). In total, you need to answer 60 questions, each of which is given a choice of one of four answers. If you do not know the correct answer to a question and do not mark anything, then the answer to it will be considered incorrect.

There is no time limit for taking the test, but try to keep it within 40-45 minutes - this is the time for which this test is designed. For a more accurate assessment of knowledge, it is better not to use dictionaries and textbooks.

Determining your English level

You can determine the result yourself in accordance with the table below, depending on the number of points you score. Read also our articles on how to prepare and pass international tests: and.

% LevelLevel according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR)
0 – 20 Beginner, ElementaryA1+ to A2
21 – 40 Pre-intermediateA2 + to B1
41 – 60 IntermediateB1
61 – 80 Upper-intermediateB2
81 – 100 AdvancedC1

Please note that the English level test provides only approximate scores and cannot be used for admission to educational institutions. In addition, this test does not assess your writing, reading or speaking skills.

CEFR level ( Common European Framework of Reference - Level on the Common European Scale of Language Competence) is a unified system for assessing language knowledge, using which you can compare even knowledge different languages For example, your English is at level B1, and Chinese is at level A2.

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