LISTENING

I can understand the main ideas of complex speech on concrete and abstract topics delivered in a standard dialect, including technical discussions in my field of specialization.

I can understand in detail what is said to me in standard spoken language.

I can with some efforts catch much of what is said around me, but may find it difficult to understand a discussion between several speakers who do not modify their language in any way.

I can follow the essentials of lectures, talks and reports and other forms of complex academic or professional presentation in my field.

I can follow TV drama and the majority of films in standard dialect.

I can understand TV news, current affairs, documentaries, interviews, talk shows, etc.

I can understand announcements and messages spoken in standard dialect at normal speed.

 

READING

I can read with a large degree of independence, using dictionaries and other reference sources selectively when necessary.

I can rapidly grasp the content and the significance of news, articles and reports on topics connected with my interests or my job, and decide if a closer reading is worthwhile.

I can understand articles, reports and reviews in which the writers express specific points of view (e.g., political commentary, critiques of exhibitions, plays, films, etc).

I can understand lengthy instructions, for example in a user manual for a TV or digital camera, for installing software, as long as I can reread difficult sections.

I can read short stories and novels written in a straightforward language and style, making use of a dictionary, if I am familiar with the story and/or the writer.

I can understand the main points in formal and informal letters relating to my personal and professional interests, with occasional use of a dictionary.

 

SPOKEN INTERACTION

I can take an active part in conversation, expressing clearly my points of view, ideas or feelings naturally with effective turn-taking.

I can evaluate advantages & disadvantages, and participate in reaching a decision in formal or informal discussion.

I can sustain my opinions in discussion by providing relevant explanations, arguments and comments.

I can find out and pass on detailed information reliably, face-to-face and on the phone, asking follow-up questions and getting clarification or elaboration when necessary.

I can make a complaint effectively, explaining the problem and demanding appropriate action.

I can use the telephone to find out detailed information, provided the other person speaks clearly, and ask follow-up questions to check that I have understood a point fully.

 

SPOKEN PRODUCTION

I can give clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of subjects related to my fields of interest.

I can develop a clear argument, linking my ideas logically and expanding and supporting my points with appropriate examples.

I can present a topical issue in a critical manner and weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

I can summarize information and arguments from a number of sources, such as articles or reports, discussions, interviews, presentations, etc.

I can summarize orally the plot and sequence of events in a film or play.

 

WRITTEN PRODUCTION

I can write at length about topical issues, even though complex concepts may be oversimplified, and can correct many of my mistakes in the process.

I can write clear, detailed descriptions on a variety of subjects related to my field of interest.

I can write a paper giving reasons in support of or against a particular point of view and explaining the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

I can express news, views and feelings in correspondence, and respond to those of the other person.

I can write standard formal letters requesting or communicating relevant information, following a template.

 

STRATEGIES

I can use standard phrases like "That’s a difficult question to answer” to gain time and keep the turn while formulating what to say.

I can help a discussion along on familiar ground confirming comprehension, inviting others in, etc.

I can generally cover gaps in vocabulary and structure with paraphrases.

I can generally correct slips and errors if I become aware of them or if they have led to misunderstandings.

I can make a note of "favorite mistakes” and consciously monitor speech for them.

 

QUALITY OF LANGUAGE

I have a sufficient range of vocabulary to vary formulation and avoid repetition when expressing myself on matters connected to my field and on most general topics.

I can explain the details of an event, idea or problem reliably.

I can link what I say or write into clear, well-organized text, though I may not always do this smoothly so there may be some “jumps.”

I can communicate with reasonable accuracy and can correct mistakes if they have led to misunderstandings.

I can produce stretches of language with a fairly even tempo; although I can be hesitant as I search for expressions, there are few noticeably long pauses.

I can sustain relationships with native speakers without unintentionally amusing or irritating them or requiring them to behave other than they would with a native speaker.