CEFR CEFR - Common European Framework Levels and Descriptors 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: At which CEFR level can a learner understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters?
- A1
- A2
- B1 (Correct answer)
- C1
Correct answer: B1
B1 is defined by understanding main points of clear standard input on familiar topics.
The B1 (Threshold) level descriptor states that learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, and leisure.
Question 2: Which CEFR level is described as "Basic User" range?
- A1 and A2 (Correct answer)
- B1 and B2
- C1 and C2
- B2 and C1
Correct answer: A1 and A2
A1 (Breakthrough) and A2 (Waystage) together form the Basic User range.
The CEFR divides the scale into three broad levels: Basic User (A1-A2), Independent User (B1-B2), and Proficient User (C1-C2). A1 is Breakthrough and A2 is Waystage within the Basic User band.
Question 3: What label is given to the C2 level in the CEFR?
- Vantage
- Mastery (Correct answer)
- Proficiency
- Effectiveness
Correct answer: Mastery
C2 is labelled "Mastery" in the CEFR.
The CEFR assigns labels to each level: A1=Breakthrough, A2=Waystage, B1=Threshold, B2=Vantage, C1=Effective Operational Proficiency, C2=Mastery. C2 represents near-native control of the language.
Question 4: A learner at A1 can do which of the following?
- Write formal reports
- Interact in a simple way with slow, clear speech (Correct answer)
- Discuss abstract topics fluently
- Understand complex lectures
Correct answer: Interact in a simple way with slow, clear speech
A1 learners can interact simply provided speech is very slow and clear.
A1 (Breakthrough) descriptors include: can understand and use very basic expressions, can introduce themselves and others, and can interact simply when speech is slow, clear, and helpful.
Question 5: Which descriptor best characterizes the B2 level?
- Can understand isolated phrases and simple vocabulary
- Can interact with native speakers spontaneously and fluently (Correct answer)
- Can understand every word in any context
- Needs everything repeated and simplified
Correct answer: Can interact with native speakers spontaneously and fluently
B2 (Vantage) allows spontaneous, fluent interaction with native speakers without strain.
B2 is described as the level at which learners can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.
Question 6: The "plus" levels (A2+, B1+, B2+) in the CEFR represent what?
- Separate official levels
- Intermediate achievement within a main level band (Correct answer)
- Levels above C2
- Levels used only in the UK
Correct answer: Intermediate achievement within a main level band
Plus levels indicate stronger performance within a level band but below the next full level.
The CEFR acknowledges "plus" levels (e.g., B2+) to describe learners who have exceeded one level but not yet reached the full descriptor of the next. They are used in some assessment systems to provide more granular reporting.
CEFR CEFR - Common European Framework Levels and Descriptors 2
At which CEFR level can a learner understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters?