Level 5
Language Competence Levels Guide
Level 5Native Speaker - Very confident and competent
communicator in native language.
Level 4.5Often mistaken for a native speaker.
Level 4Management Level - Fully effective manager at native
speaker level. Occasional small lapses, especially with idioms but
almost completely bilingual.
Level 3.5Rarely has problems except with complex topics and
sensitive situations under pressure. Understands some nuances and
idioms. Probably used to working with consumers and colleagues in
the target language. Should check with native speakers when
handling documents or presentations on less familiar subjects.
Level 3Operational Level - Can join in detailed discussions and
work with colleagues, contacts and consumers who are native
speakers. Some inaccuracies and gaps in vocabulary may limit
effectiveness on complex matters. May have a few problems
expressing views in meetings and written reports with appropriate
strength and sensitivity. Key target level for detailed
international work e.g. in English for UK secondments or for BAT
international management development courses.Level 2.5Can often
converse confidently but frustrated by lack of vocabulary. Is
probably uncertain of ways to interrupt firmly and politely in
meetings. Can make simple presentations but will lack the
flexibility and sophistication to be clear and convincing with
colleagues. Some errors will limit effectiveness and cause problems
when writing letters, memos and reports concisely and accurately
with appropriate style and tone. Few language graduates sustain
this level without further training including language for
business. Level 2Basic Efficiency - Can cope in everyday
conversation and on some routine business topics with a sympathetic
native speaker. Has a good understanding of main structures and
essential vocabulary. Has difficulty in keeping up with details in
meetings but may be able to give explanations and suggest
alternatives if given time. Limited by lack of fluency and by
weakness in reading/listening comprehension. Initial level for
international work, particularly if still based locally. Inadequate
level in English for secondment to UK.Level 1.5Can communicate on
some familiar subjects in one-to-one conversation with a
sympathetic colleague but would soon become lost in detailed
discussions. Can exchange routine information but not really able
to work extensively in the language. Typical starting level for
those without much practice or training since a long course at
school.
Level 1Simple Conversation - Can ask/answer fairly simple
questions and exchange basic instructions. Some accuracy and
confidence but a narrow range of vocabulary. Beginning to use past
and future tenses and simple modals e.g.. "must / mustn't / don't
have to / may / can / cannot." For international liaison or
assignments to countries where it is not necessary to work in the
local language.Level 0.5Understands some basic grammar and
"survival vocabulary" but cannot engage in conversation. May have a
basis through a specific course or some patchy passive knowledge
from a short course at school.
Level 0Complete Beginner - no previous study EMBED
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