I have taught all kinds of students who want to improve their English for all kinds of reasons. Some students have a basic understanding, others are more advanced. One frequently asked question from all students however is: ‘what is my English level’?
The teachers at our English school, we use a selection of techniques to assess how well students understand and express themselves. These are normally based on a combination of knowledge of the native language, years of teaching experience, and application of exam criteria.
Knowledge
As a native speaker you instinctively know when something sounds right, don’t you? If a learner confuses an auxiliary verb or chooses a word out of context s/he could be demonstrating gaps in their knowledge that is specific to a certain level. Cultural knowledge can also open up a whole range of vocabulary that might be impossible for a learner to guess the meaning of.
Experience
Experienced teachers know which linguistic obstacles students encounter at each level. Believe it or not, students who speak lots of different languages can make similar mistakes in English! Experience tells us which problem areas are likely to crop up in conversation. That’s why in our trial classes trial classes we aim to focus our attention on identifying these concerns. This way we can tailor our tutoring to individual students’ needs.
Common European Framework
Have you ever wondered where the letter and number combinations such as B1 and C2 come from? They are categories from the CEF, an abbreviation for the Common European Framework. This is a reference table used by teachers of EFL (English as a Foreign Language) to place students according to their abilities. All examining bodies use this or something very similar so that levels can be assessed and compared fairly.
If you have doubts about your English level or would just like some advice about how to improve, why not ask your teacher for his/her opinion? Contrary to popular belief, not all English teachers are part of the GRAMMAR POLICE! Live-English teachers are here to help you to communicate easily and effectively. Don’t know your ‘get on’ from your ‘get over’? Ask one of us today!
Vocabulary & Expressions
According to – phrase – depending on
Assess – verb – evaluate
Concerns – noun – difficulties, problems
Contrary to popular belief – saying – lots of people believe it but it’s not true
Crop up – phrasal verb – occur
Encounter – verb – find
Fairly – adverb – justly, without prejudice
Gap – noun – space, void, something missing
Likely – adverb – probable
Open up – phrasal verb – present, expose
Tailor – verb – make changes for someone
Wonder – verb – think
Contributor: Teacher Janine
Janine is originally from Yorkshire UK, she is a professionally qualified teacher with over 15 years’ experience, she has taught students of all ages Business English and academic English. Janine likes to help students become more fluent and confident with their language by testing the waters. Being one to “never let the grass grow under her feet” Janine enjoys learning new things, languages, travel, and is very proud of her Yorkshire roots!
