Level A1 corresponds to basic users of the language, i.e. those able to communicate in everyday situations with commonly-used expressions and elementary vocabulary. It is important to bear in mind that the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the system that defines and explains the different levels of oral and written expression and comprehension for languages such as English. It consists of 6 levels of reference: three blocks (A or basic user, B or independent user and C or proficient user), which are in turn divided into two sublevels, 1 and 2.
Skills at level A1
One of the questions you might ask yourself when you read this information is, what language competences characterise a person who can prove they have a level A1 in English? The CEFR specifies the following:
- He/she can understand and use very frequently-used everyday expressions as well as simple phrases to meet immediate needs.
- He/she can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, things he/she has and people he/she knows.
- He/she can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to cooperate.