BBC Learning English - Course: lower intermediate / Unit 20 / Session 1 / Activity 1 (2024)

FAQs

What is a lower intermediate level of English? ›

Lower Intermediate (B1)

be able to express yourself on familiar topics such as family, hobbies and jobs. have enough vocabulary to communicate in everyday familiar situations. be able to initiate and maintain a simple face-to-face conversation on the topics that interest you, such as hobbies or jobs.

A0/A1 English (Beginner/Elementary)

Level A0/A1 corresponds to basic users of English who can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases.

Studieskolen's English levels are divided into basic level A1-A2, pre-intermediate level B1, intermediate level B1+, upper-intermediate level B2 and B2+, advanced level C1 and proficient level C2.

The time spent in Intermediate school (6th – 8th grade) is a formal, operational stage of development for children.

Level B2 corresponds to independent users of the language, i.e. those who have the necessary fluency to communicate without effort with native speakers.

The word 'intermediate' means 'between'. That stage is 'between' beginner' and 'advanced'. 'Advanced' means moved ahead, presumably, near proficiency. So 'intermediate is a level after mastering beginning concepts but before attempting 'advanced' concepts.

Beginner (EF SET score 21-30)

English level A1 is the first level of English in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), a definition of different language levels written by the Council of Europe.

Proficient English User (C1, C2)

Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes.

C2 Proficiency, formerly known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE), is one of our Cambridge English Qualifications. It is our highest-level qualification – proof that you are a highly competent speaker of English.

Is intermediate English level good? ›

B1 – Intermediate (Independent)

Once you reach B1 level English, your English abilities are at the “intermediate” level. This means that you can speak and understand English for matters related to your daily routine. You can also be much more descriptive about your life and experiences.

We recommend you take the EF SET. It's a free 50-minute English test that will tell you your level of reading and listening comprehension as accurately as the TOEFL or IELTS. You'll get a score on the CEFR scale as well as a certificate of your English level.

The CEFR has six levels, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for users who are proficient in the language. For each level, the CEFR describes what a learner can do when speaking, reading, listening and writing in English.

Fluency is defined as “being able to speak and write quickly or easily in a given language.” In general, when someone is considered fluent in a language, they have the ability to speak the language near perfect but could require more concentration and time to formulate in-depth thoughts and understand slang terms.

Low Intermediate (CEF level: A2)

Able to handle successfully only a limited number of interactive, task-oriented, and social situations. Capable of using simple structures and a general, limited vocabulary. Speaks with general ease in the present tense and can give simple commands.

If a person is at B1, this is intermediate level. He/she can do the following: Understand the main points of clear texts in standard language if they are about topics with which they are familiar, whether in work, study or leisure contexts.

Once you reach B1 level English, your English abilities are at the “intermediate” level. This means that you can speak and understand English for matters related to your daily routine. You can also be much more descriptive about your life and experiences.