Independent user (B1 to B2+)

Self-assessment checklists

• Self-assessment checklist: level B1:
• Self-assessment checklist for the refresher courses in French, Italian and Spanish
• Self-assessment checklist: level: B1+
• Self-assessment checklist: level B2
• Self-assessment checklist: level B2+

Description of the levels

Independent user

B1

Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.

Independent user

B1+

Can provide concrete information required in an interview/ consultation, summarise a short story, article, talk, or documentary and can give detailed instructions. Can exchange accumulated factual information on familiar routine and non-routine matters within his/her field with some confidence.

Independent user

B2

Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

Independent user

B2+

Can give feedback on and follow up statements and inferences by other speakers and so help the development of the discussion; relate own contribution skilfully to those of other speakers. Can use a limited number of cohesive devices to link sentences together smoothly into clear, connected discourse; use a variety of linking words efficiently to mark clearly the relationships between ideas; develop an argument systematically with appropriate highlighting of significant points, and relevant supporting detail. Can, for example, outline a case for compensation, using persuasive language and simple arguments to demand satisfaction; state clearly the limits to a concession.

^{Photographs: ©️ Simon Haigermoser}