Language Framework

High-Beginner English

General Descriptors:

Can interact with reasonable ease in structured situations and short conversations, providing the other person helps if necessary.
Can ask and answer questions and exchange ideas and information on familiar topics in predictable everyday situations.

Specific Area Descriptors

Grammar—Can use several simple structures correctly, but still systematically makes basic mistakes such as mixing up tenses and forgetting to mark agreement.
Vocabulary—Has necessary vocabulary to conduct routine everyday transactions involving familiar situations and topics, though he/she will often have to compromise the message and search for words.
Pronunciation—Generally pronunciation is usually clear enough to be understood despite a noticeable foreign accent, but conversation partners will need to ask for repetition relatively frequently. Sentence stress, rhythm, and intonation are much influenced by the native language.
Spoken fluency—Can make him/herself understood in short contributions, even though pauses, false starts and reformulation are very common.
Listening—Can understand well enough the language in familiar topic areas provided the speech is relatively clearly and slowly articulated. With audiocassette material the student can understand and extract the essential information from shorter passages dealing with predictable everyday matters which are delivered in rather clear and standard language.
Reading—Can understand short, simple texts on familiar matters which consist of high-frequency everyday or job-related language.
Writing—Can write fairly short sentences and paragraphs to describe events, past activities and personal experiences.