CEFR - Common European Framework Pragmatic Competence Analysis Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: According to the CEFR, which of the following is a core component of Pragmatic Competence, concerned with the functional use of linguistic resources like performing speech acts?
- Sociolinguistic Competence
- Linguistic Competence
- Functional Competence (Correct answer)
- Strategic Competence
Correct answer: Functional Competence
The CEFR divides Pragmatic Competence into several sub-competences. Functional Competence specifically relates to the use of language to achieve communicative goals, such as making requests, giving advice, or apologizing, which are known as speech acts.
Question 2: A learner at a B2 level is able to develop an argument systematically, highlighting significant points and supporting details. This demonstrates proficiency primarily in which aspect of Pragmatic Competence?
- Flexibility
- Thematic Development & Coherence (Correct answer)
- Sociolinguistic Appropriateness
- Propositional Precision
Correct answer: Thematic Development & Coherence
The ability to structure arguments, connect ideas logically, and expand on main points falls under the pragmatic sub-competences of Thematic Development and Coherence/Cohesion. These skills are crucial for creating well-organized and understandable discourse, a key descriptor at the B2 level.
Question 3: In a professional setting, a non-native speaker uses overly informal language when addressing a senior manager, causing a slight misunderstanding. An analysis of this interaction would most likely identify a gap in which area of competence?
- Grammatical Accuracy
- Sociolinguistic Competence (Correct answer)
- Spoken Fluency
- Discourse Management
Correct answer: Sociolinguistic Competence
Sociolinguistic Competence is concerned with the appropriateness of language use in different social contexts. This includes understanding and applying correct levels of formality, politeness conventions, and register. The error described is not about grammar or fluency, but about the social suitability of the language used.
Question 4: Which of the following CEFR descriptors best illustrates a high level of 'Flexibility' within Pragmatic Competence?
- Can produce clear, smooth-flowing, well-structured speech.
- Can use a limited number of cohesive devices to link utterances into connected discourse.
- Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously, reformulating ideas in different ways to suit the context and purpose. (Correct answer)
- Can sustain relationships with native speakers without unintentionally amusing or irritating them.
Correct answer: Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously, reformulating ideas in different ways to suit the context and purpose.
Flexibility in the CEFR's pragmatic competence refers to the ability to adapt one's language to different situations, interlocutors, and communicative goals. This includes reformulating, changing style, and emphasizing different points to achieve a desired effect on the audience.
Question 5: A CEFR-based assessment of a learner's ability to take turns appropriately, initiate topics, and close a conversation would fall under the analysis of:
- Linguistic Range
- Propositional Precision
- Phonological Control
- Discourse Competence (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Discourse Competence
Discourse Competence, a key part of Pragmatic Competence in the CEFR model, involves managing interaction. This includes skills like turntaking, initiating and closing conversations, and maintaining coherence in an interactive exchange.
Question 6: In the CEFR's model of communicative language competences, Pragmatic Competence is primarily concerned with:
- The user's knowledge of vocabulary and grammar.
- The mastery of pronunciation and intonation.
- The relationship between language signs and the socio-cultural context.
- The functional use of language and the structuring of discourse in context. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The functional use of language and the structuring of discourse in context.
The CEFR positions Pragmatic Competence alongside Linguistic and Sociolinguistic Competences. Its specific focus is on how language is used in action to achieve communicative goals (functional competence) and how messages are organized and structured to be coherent and effective (discourse competence).
CEFR - Common European Framework Pragmatic Competence Analysis Questions and Answers
According to the CEFR, which of the following is a core component of Pragmatic Competence, concerned with the functional use of linguistic resources like performing speech acts?