CEFR CEFR - Common European Framework Linguistic Range and Control 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In the CEFR, "linguistic range" at B2 refers to what ability?
- Using only basic vocabulary
- Having a broad range of language to express ideas clearly on a wide range of topics (Correct answer)
- Knowing more than 10,000 words
- Avoiding complex grammar
Correct answer: Having a broad range of language to express ideas clearly on a wide range of topics
B2 linguistic range means having enough language to express oneself clearly on a wide range of topics.
The CEFR defines linguistic range at B2 as having a sufficient range of language to be able to give clear descriptions, express viewpoints, and develop arguments without having to restrict what you want to say.
Question 2: Which CEFR scale specifically rates a learner's grammatical correctness?
- Fluency scale
- Grammatical accuracy scale (Correct answer)
- Pragmatic competence scale
- Interaction scale
Correct answer: Grammatical accuracy scale
The grammatical accuracy scale in the CEFR rates how correctly a learner uses grammar.
The CEFR includes a specific grammatical accuracy scale that describes, at each level, the degree to which a learner produces grammatically correct utterances. Higher levels show systematic and consistent accuracy even in complex structures.
Question 3: At C2, what characterizes a learner's linguistic control?
- Frequent errors in basic structures
- Consistent precision and naturalness of expression (Correct answer)
- Limited to formal registers only
- Relies heavily on memorized phrases
Correct answer: Consistent precision and naturalness of expression
C2 is marked by consistent precision, flexibility, and naturalness across all registers.
At C2 (Mastery), the CEFR describes linguistic control as consistent and precise. Learners reformulate ideas in different linguistic forms, maintain consistent grammatical control, and rarely make errors. Their language use is natural and flexible.
Question 4: What does "lexical range" mean in CEFR descriptors?
- The number of grammar rules known
- The breadth of vocabulary available to express meaning (Correct answer)
- The ability to spell correctly
- The speed of reading
Correct answer: The breadth of vocabulary available to express meaning
Lexical range refers to the breadth and variety of vocabulary a learner commands.
Lexical range in CEFR describes the variety and breadth of vocabulary a learner has available. Higher proficiency levels have larger, more varied lexical repertoires, including collocations, idioms, and domain-specific vocabulary.
Question 5: A B1 learner's linguistic range is best described as:
- Sufficient to express opinions on abstract topics
- Adequate for familiar topics but limited on complex subjects (Correct answer)
- Native-like precision on all topics
- Only covering basic greetings
Correct answer: Adequate for familiar topics but limited on complex subjects
B1 range covers familiar topics but may show limitations on complex or abstract subjects.
At B1, the CEFR describes linguistic range as sufficient to sustain communication and express main points, but with limitations on unfamiliar topics and complex language. Learners may paraphrase or simplify when they lack specific vocabulary.
Question 6: What is "phonological control" in CEFR terminology?
- The ability to write phonetic transcriptions
- The degree to which a learner's pronunciation is clear and intelligible (Correct answer)
- Knowledge of phonetic symbols
- Speed of reading aloud
Correct answer: The degree to which a learner's pronunciation is clear and intelligible
Phonological control refers to how clearly and intelligibly a learner pronounces the language.
The CEFR phonological control scale describes how clearly and intelligibly a learner can pronounce sounds, words, and sentences. At higher levels, pronunciation is accurate, natural, and does not impede communication.
In the CEFR, "linguistic range" at B2 refers to what ability?