CEFR Language Production (Writing/Speaking) Descriptors

Can, when preparing a more formal text, consciously adopt the conventions linked to the particular type of text concerned (e.g. structure, level of formality).

Can, when preparing a more formal text, consciously adopt the conventions linked to the particular type of text concerned (e.g. structure, level of formality).

Can, in preparing for a potentially complicated or awkward situation, plan what to say in the event of different reactions, reflecting on what expression would be appropriate.

plan what is to be said and the means to say it, considering the effect on the recipient(s).

rehearse and try out new combinations and expressions, inviting feedback.

work out how to communicate the main point(s) they want to get across, exploiting any resources available and limiting the message to what they can recall or find the means to express.

recall and rehearse an appropriate set of phrases from their repertoire.

No descriptors available

substitute an equivalent term for a word/phrase they can't recall, so smoothly that it is scarcely noticeable.

exploit their range of vocabulary options creatively so as to readily and effectively use circumlocution in almost all situations.

use circumlocution and paraphrase to cover gaps in vocabulary and structure.

address most communication problems by using circumlocution, or by avoiding difficult expressions.

define the features of something concrete for which they can't remember the word/sign.

convey meaning by qualifying a word/sign meaning something similar (e.g. a truck for people = bus).

use a simple word/sign meaning something similar to the concept they want to convey and invite "correction".

"foreignise" word in their first language and ask for confirmation.

use an inadequate word/sign from their repertoire and use gestures to clarify what they mean.

identify what they mean by pointing to it (e.g. "I'd like this, please").

use gestures to support simple words in expressing a need.

Pre-A1 point to something and ask what it is.

backtrack and restructure around a difficulty so smoothly that the interlocutor is hardly aware of it.

backtrack when they encounter a difficulty and reformulate what they want to say without fully interrupting the flow of language.

self-correct with a high degree of effectiveness.

often retrospectively self-correct their occasional “slips” or non-systematic errors and minor flaws in sentence structure.

correct slips and errors that they become conscious of, or that have led to misunderstandings.

make a note of their recurring mistakes and consciously monitor for them.

correct mix-ups with the marking of time or expressions that lead to misunderstandings, provided the interlocutor indicates there is a problem.

ask for confirmation that a form used is correct.

start again using a different tactic when communication breaks down.

No descriptors available

No descriptors available