language levels and progression

In theory, the student has no knowledge of the target language. There are two types of beginners:

• Absolute beginners, who have had no previous contact at all with the language in question.
• False beginners, who have studied the language in the past or have been exposed to it passively. 

The student can interact in a very simple fashion and produces incomplete sentences, lacking real grammatical content. He/she understands basic instructions and phrases used in specific contexts.

The student is able to exchange simple information by using vocabulary that is normally taught in school. He/she can write basic sentences and understands expressions related to relevant topics.

The student is able to read and write very simple texts and can successfully hold a basic conversation about matters that are of personal interest or familiar. He/she gets the general message of what is being said, but normally has difficulties understanding the nuances of the message.

The student can interact quite spontaneously, but often struggles with vocabulary and grammar. He/she is able to understand the main points of a complex text.

The student is able to interact fluently with native speakers. Despite making some grammar and spelling mistakes, he/she can communicate effectively and understands everyday language. His/her level is high enough to use in professional contexts.

The student can produce an elaborate discourse and successfully communicate in professional, academic and social contexts. He/she understands practically everything, including idioms.

The student masters the language in question perfectly and can understand practically anything. In fact, his/her command of the language and grammar knowledge is often higher than that of a native speaker. To reach this level, the student usually needs to spend an extended period of time abroad.