CEFR Language Proficiency Self Assessment
The Global Seal of Biliteracy has developed a free adaptive language proficiency self assessment based on CEFR can-do statements. These can-do statements are reflective of an individual’s language ability based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) Levels.
The result of over twenty years of research, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR) was launched in 2001. It was designed to provide a transparent, coherent and comprehensive basis for the elaboration of language syllabuses and curriculum guidelines, the design of teaching and learning materials, and the assessment of foreign language proficiency. The CEFR organizes language proficiency in six levels, A1 to C2, which can be regrouped into three broad levels: Basic User, Independent User and Proficient User, and that can be further subdivided according to the needs of the local context. The levels are defined through ‘can-do’ descriptors.
Interpretive Language Assessments
The Interpretive Mode of Communication describes the act of understanding or interpreting language that is heard, read or viewed. In this mode, language skill is measured by how well the language of an author, speaker, presenter or producer is understood. At higher levels, this understanding includes the ability to infer meaning or “read between the lines” based on cultural norms or perspectives. The Interpretive Mode includes a variety of language skills such as reading (books, articles, websites, brochures), listening (speeches, podcasts, songs) and viewing (movies, videos, theater plays). To summarize, the Interpretive Mode is one-way receptive communication.
Interpersonal Language Assessments
The Interpersonal Mode of Communication describes back and forth communication between individuals. Interpersonal communication could take place in either a written or spoken form, and implies that an “active negotiation of meaning” is taking place. Each participant actively observes and monitors the other’s communication and responds appropriately. Questions are followed by answers and/or clarifying statements. Listening comprehension is evidenced by a corresponding logical response. Written examples include letters, emails, texts, or written notes or messages that require reading and writing skills. Spoken examples may include face-to-face, telephone/video conversations or interviews. To summarize, the Interpersonal Mode is two-way active communication.
Presentational Language Assessments
The Presentational Mode of Communication describes the ability to create and produce written or spoken language for others in the form of messages designed to inform, persuade, explain or narrate. In this mode, language skill is measured by how much and how well the user can communicate in order to be understood. At higher levels, the Presentational Mode includes the ability to adapt to the formality of the situation and to use appropriate cultural and colloquial phrases. The Presentational mode includes writing (books, articles, reports), speaking (speeches, telling a story, giving a report) or a multi-mode presentation (theater/movie acting, a PowerPoint presentation, video voiceover). To summarize, the Presentational Mode is one-way productive communication.
*These language proficiency self assessments are to give you a rough estimate of where you might fall on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) Levels. Your results are an approximation based solely on your answers and are not to be used in place of a proficiency test.