What is better to take with English. Types of international examinations in English: which one to choose? The better the knowledge of the language, the higher the chance of enrolling in prestigious universities
Good afternoon. The son enters the university this year and is required there passing the exam in English language. The school teacher was unable to explain what grade we needed. Although, he says that his son knows English well. Only the level of the English language remains a mystery in order to pass the Unified State Exam in English.
There used to be a clear system of one to five. 4-5 - I passed it successfully, now it is completely incomprehensible how everything works.
What level of English is needed for the exam, that is, what level should English be for a child to pass the exam at 4-5?
Anna,
Not only the system for assessing the knowledge of graduates has changed, but also the system of skills that an applicant must demonstrate when entering a university.
In this connection, I would not draw direct parallels between the old grading system from "one" to "five" points and the new one, in which the maximum score is 100.
Comparative table of USE scores and grades
At the same time, so that you can understand the gradation very approximately, here is a comparative table of points:
Again, repeat that the "five" can now be very different. In some university, the "five" is needed at the level of 84 points, and in some other university only those who have scored more than 90 points on the exam are accepted.
Comparative table of USE scores and levels of the English language
All of the above is, rather, approximate, theoretical information, in practice you need to test the child in the trial format, after which it will be clear how many points he can score at the moment.
Then, you need to find out the requirements of the university for applicants, that is, how many points in general are needed to enter them. Based on this, it will be clear how to prepare the child for admission.
There are more than 20 international exams in the world that test knowledge of the English language. Have you decided to get an objective assessment of your knowledge, but do not know which English exam is better to pass? Among all the variety of exams, we will help you choose the one that suits your goals.
The day has come when you seriously thought about passing the international exam. There are several main reasons why a certificate might be useful to you:
- want to get a new prestigious job;
- dream of moving up the career ladder;
- firmly decided to leave for permanent residence abroad;
- intend to enter a university abroad;
- you need a certificate to get an objective assessment of your knowledge of the English language.
More than 15,000 universities, companies and government agencies around the world recognize international exam certificates. In employment, having an international certificate in English is a significant competitive advantage that will help you get a position in one of the large companies: Hewlett-Packard (HP), IBM, Sony, Bosch, DHL, Credit Suisse, Motorola, Siemens AG, American Express, Procter & Gamble etc.
The tests test the candidates' knowledge of the following skills:
- Reading - Reading.
- Listening - Listening.
- Writing - Writing.
- Speaking - Speaking.
In addition, exams test how well the candidate is proficient in aspects of the language such as grammar (Grammar), vocabulary(Vocabulary) and pronunciation (Pronunciation).
V last years the structure of many exams has changed. Some of them have changed their names, but they are still searched on the Internet under the old names and abbreviations. We decided to collect old and current exam names into a table.
| Old name | Actual name |
|---|---|
| Yle starters | Pre A1 Starters |
| Yle movers | A1 Movers |
| Yle flyers | A2 Flyers |
| KET for Schools | A2 Key for Schools |
| PET for Schools | B1 Preliminary for Schools |
| Cambridge English: First for Schools | B2 First for Schools |
| Cambridge English: First (FCE) | B2 First |
| Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) | C1 Advanced |
| Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) | C2 Proficiency |
| Business English Certificate Preliminary (BEC Preliminary) | B1 Business Preliminary |
| Business English Certificate Vantage (BEC Vantage) | B2 Business Vantage |
| Business English Certificate Higher (BEC Higher) | C1 Business Higher |
All those dreaming of a certificate ask themselves the question: "What exam in English to take?" And here the choice is very large (the sky is the limit)! So that you don't get confused, we have compiled an author's infographic of all international English exams (click on it to enlarge the image).
Choose an exam depending on your goals and help.
Exams for Study Abroad
How many tempting prospects are opening up for us studying abroad! Have you already chosen where to enter the magistracy? The only thing left to do is to pass the exam. European countries and the United Kingdom most often require a certificate from the University of Cambridge in the list of documents for admission. If you are applying to a university in the United States or Canada, then most likely you will have to present an American exam certificate. You can read more about choosing an exam in our article ""
In many ways, these exams are similar. They confirm your current level of knowledge and do not imply any passing scores. The question is, will you be satisfied with a certificate that indicates the Pre-Intermediate level? Most likely not, because universities require Upper-Intermediate and higher. TOEFL and IELTS certificates are valid for two years after passing. And this is logical. First, the level of knowledge of the language changes. Secondly, such a certificate helps to solve the problem here and now: go to university, get a job, etc.
There are two types of IELTS exam: General and Academic. For study, you need Academic. It is more difficult than General: the writing and reading sections are based on complex texts with topical vocabulary and advanced grammar. And General will come in handy for any purpose other than education (immigration, work).
Exams for emigration and self-development
Have you been studying English for a long time and would like to prove that you have a decent level of knowledge? Then select the exam among,.
The main advantage is that the certificates of these exams are valid for life. Only not everyone will receive it. Unfortunately, if the examinee fails to achieve a passing grade, then he will be given a certificate at a lower level. It's simple: if you passed the CAE and did not score the required minimum points, you will receive a document with the Upper-Intermediate level. Strictly but fair.
Exams for work
You were offered interesting work in an international company? Great news! One thing: you need a certificate that confirms your high level of proficiency English language... What is the best English exam to take for work? Choose: TOEIC, IELTS (General), B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), C2 Proficiency (CPE).
Business English exams
If you need to confirm your knowledge of business English vocabulary, pay attention to: B1 Business Preliminary (BEC Preliminary) corresponds to the Intermediate level, B2 Business Vantage (BEC Vantage) - Upper-Intermediate, C1 Business Higher (BEC Higher) - Advanced. Looking to impress potential employers when applying for a job? Choose BEC. Are you going to study business disciplines in a foreign language? Also BEC. Are you planning to conduct seminars and trainings on business topics yourself? Again BEC.
Business English exams comprehensively test students' skills. The BEC series is distinguished by its emotional vocabulary, advanced grammar, long texts and audio recordings, graphics and presentations, marketing and management topics.
Exams for English teachers
Recently, English teachers are increasingly thinking about certificates confirming their qualifications - this is a strong competitive advantage in the labor market. TKT, CELTA or DELTA will work for them.
The TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test) certificate confirms that its holder is proficient in the methodology and theory of teaching a foreign language. The exam consists of three theoretical modules, each of which can be taken separately.
CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are needed to show that the teacher knows how to apply their knowledge in practice. The CELTA exam is chosen by novice teachers, while DELTA is chosen by more experienced teachers.
Exams for children
The smallest English lovers need to start somewhere. What is the best English test for my child? The University of Cambridge offers three exams for children 7-12 years old: Pre A1 Starters (YLE Starters), A1 Movers (YLE Movers), A2 Flyers (YLE Flyers). These are the simplest exams, but they are very important for the child.
A great start for a student high school will become the A2 Key for Schools (KET for Schools) exam. Key, like other exams, tests knowledge in four skills - listening, speaking, reading and writing. The exam is quite easy, but your child will be very pleased with himself, because not many peers can boast of such a confident start in English!
Upon successful completion of the B1 Preliminary for Schools (PET for Schools) exam, the child will receive a certificate Intermediate level and B2 First for Schools (FCE for Schools) is Upper-Intermediate.
In conclusion, I would like to say that there is definitely an exam for every taste and color. We hope that after reading our article, you will know exactly which English test is best to take. Whatever you choose, the main thing is to reach the end, receive the coveted international certificate and prove to yourself that you speak English at a decent level.
If you are faced with the need to pass an international test that will determine your level of English proficiency, then in the near future you are planning to move abroad in order to continue your studies or employment. Prestigious universities and employing companies put forward rather high requirements for candidates, among which there are also minimum scores received for a particular language test.
In addition, if you just want to move to live in another country, you will also need to pass one of the international exams that will determine your level of English. It is impossible to fail some tests, in any case you will get at least some point, some have the mark “Fail” in the system of assessing the results of the exam - not passed.
Of course, it is better to type maximum amount points. But you need to remember that your result will depend not only on the level of English, but also on the preparation for the exam format. Each of the language tests has its own characteristics, in addition, a certain amount of time is allocated for the task, which may not be enough for you if you do not calculate in advance how many minutes you will allocate to which task.
There are a lot of tests to determine the level of English proficiency. You just need to choose the one that is right for you.
Types of international examinations in English
All tests for determining the level of English are designed for those who are studying the language as a foreign language and are not native speakers. Typically, the choice of test will depend on the choice of the country in which you want to study or work.
The most popular international exams are:, and Cambridge tests.
TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)
An exam to determine your level of proficiency in Business English. The TOEIC certificate is valid for two years, therefore it is better to take the test on the eve of your official employment or admission to a foreign university.
TOEFL or IELTS: which one to choose?
We have already talked about the exam and about its American colleague. We just want to draw your attention once again to the fact that the choice of exam will depend on the country: in the USA and Canada the TOEFL results are recognized, in the UK and Australia they prefer IELTS or Cambridge exams.
The IELTS certificate, like the TOEFL certificate, is valid for 2 years from the date of the test results. This is where the University of Cambridge exams differ from IELTS and TOEFL, as they do not have a limited duration.
Without deliberate preparation, it will be difficult to pass the exams. We have compiled a list of schools in Moscow that will help prepare for and.
Looking for courses in another city? The service will help you choose training courses in your city for free.
Cambridge language tests
| Exam title | What level is it for |
|
|
More than 2 million people take the Cambridge language exams every year.
There are also special Cambridge exams for children and adolescents: Cambridge Young Learners Exams. They are designed for of different ages and language levels: Starters, Movers and Flyers. The main purpose of these tests is to prepare young candidates for the future Cambridge adult exams.
Each exam has its own characteristics, and yet there are some common features among all English tests:
- At first, all of these exams are designed for learners of English as a foreign language
- Secondly, test results are recognized by educational institutions English-speaking countries and employing companies
- Thirdly by passing the test, you will receive an international certificate
- Quarters x, you can pass each of these exams only on the basis of an official test center for accepting international tests
- Fifth The exams test all your language skills: reading, writing, speaking, listening
Which exam should you choose?
There is also a classification that helps to simplify the process of choosing the type of international exam. A number of tests test your general English proficiency, some tests measure your level of academic English, and there are exams to test your level of proficiency exclusively in business English.
General English Exams
We include and among exams that test proficiency in general English. The Key English Test tests the development of basic language skills. The exam is graded based on the percentage earned. If you get less than 65%, you will get the mark “Fail” - not passed.
Preliminary English Test is a preparatory exam that is usually taken by those who want to participate in the Work and Travel or Work and Study programs. The test is scored in the same way as KET. Only if you get 65-69% - you get a certificate "passed to level A2".
Professional and Academic English Exams
These exams include a number of Cambridge tests: FCE, CAE, CPE, as well as IELTS and TOEFL. These exams test your proficiency in English at an academic level and you can use their results for admission to higher education institutions.Business English Exams
In addition to the exam, which we have already mentioned, there is another exam for testing proficiency in Business English - BULATS, the name of which stands for Business Language Testing Service. This exam is multilingual, that is, it can assess the level of proficiency not only in English, but also in German, Spanish or French. The minimum level of English proficiency for successful delivery this exam must be at least Intermediate. Business exams also include ILEC and ICFE specialized tests.We wish you success in preparing and passing your international language exams!
Today English is required not only for foreign, but also for Russian universities. Admissions committees establish a clear score on the exam, according to which a high school student passes or does not pass to the university. We decided to figure out what English is needed for examinations, IELTS and TOEFL and what skills are required for successful university studies.
English language entrance exams
As entrance examinations in English, Moscow universities are accepted USE results(the minimum threshold is 22 points out of 100). However, the bar is much higher for leading universities. So, at MGIMO, high school students must score 95-100 points in order to guarantee themselves a place. The Faculty of Economics at the Higher School of Economics (where tuition takes place in two languages) requires 70 points.
Universities in England accept only IELTS as entrance exams, and for admission to the Foundation, a graduate of the school needs to score IELTS 5.5-6.0 (out of a maximum of 9.0). In US universities, along with IELTS, the TOEFL certificate is considered. For preparatory programs, you need TOEFL iBT 60, and for direct admission to the undergraduate program - at least 92 points (out of 120 possible).
What level do the results correspond to on the exam?
For admission to a prestigious university in Russia or abroad, a high school student needs English at an above-intermediate level (B2). In order to qualify for a high score, it is important not only to know the language, but also to understand the exam format and possess academic skills.
Learning skills
Experience shows that admission to good university- this is half the success, and the most difficult thing is in the learning process. Foreign universities require students to have a range of academic skills:
- ability to write essays and term papers
- take notes of lectures in English
- carry out investigations
- make a presentation
- participate in debates
- analyze large amounts of information
All this is necessary in order to become independent student... After all, training in foreign university- this is 30% of classes in the classroom and 70% of independent work.
Preparation
Summer schools in England offer intensive programs for high school students, where they can prepare for the English language exam and at the same time develop academic skills. As a rule, courses are designed for 3 weeks and include three blocks of classes:
- General skills. Oral and written speech, listening, reading and grammar
- Practical skills. Role plays, discussions, debates, presentations, story reading
- Academic skills. IELTS or TOEFL preparation, research, note-taking, note-taking and essay writing
At StudyLab, we select programs for each student individually - we rely on his current language level and on the goals that the child and his parents set for this summer.
What is the level of proficiency in English? Who needs it and why?
What does language proficiency say at one of these levels and who invented them? Where to go to study?
How to link language proficiency levels with the international certification system?
What are language certificates and where can I get them?
This year my colleague decided to enroll in a master's degree in finance. Like all perfectionists, he made life as difficult for himself as possible: a serious university and a course that is taught in English were chosen for admission.
The problem was that the university's website clearly indicated “TOEFL and Professional Interview”, and my colleague was fluent in English, according to my estimates, at the level of “Landon of the Capital City of Great Britain”.
To find out the level, a teacher from a well-promoted language school was invited, which, after two hours of testing and interviews, passed the verdict “confident Intermediate”. At this point, I was very surprised and once again plunged into reflections on how deeply foreign languages penetrate into our lives, and not only now, and not only English. And how important it is to own at least them ... At what level do they need to own? What are these levels and what does the language proficiency mean at each of them? And how to link language proficiency levels with the international certification system?
IN WHAT WILL WE MEASURE?
We measure the immeasurable. How can you assess the degree of language proficiency? By the number of words? Of course, this is an important criterion. But Lev Shcherba and his “gloka kuzdra” almost a century ago proved to the whole world that the main thing in a language is grammar. This is the spine and the backbone of the basics. But to have a conversation, read a book, and watch a movie, the basics are not enough. If you do not know the vocabulary, the meaning of what is happening will still elude you. That is, vocabulary again?
In fact, both are important, as well as knowledge of the history, culture and modern realities of the country whose language you are studying - this is what your competencies are based on.
Each of us has heard something about the levels of language proficiency. For example, in English one of entry levels- Elementary, in Hebrew the levels of study are named after the letters of the Hebrew alphabet (Aleph, Bet, Gimel, etc.), and in Polish they correspond to the common European classification (from A0 to C2).
In addition to the system of divisions into levels for each individual language, there is also a common European classification. It describes not the amount of grammatical knowledge, but what knowledge and skills a person possesses, how well he reads, perceives speech by ear and expresses himself. It is impossible to formulate assessment criteria common to all languages like “knows this from grammar, but knows how to handle vocabulary like this”. Although European languages are close to each other, they have their own characteristics: the presence / absence of genders, cases and articles, the number of times, etc. On the other hand, the existing similarities are enough to nevertheless create a common assessment system for the whole of Europe.
EUROPEAN LANGUAGES: LEVELS OF LEARNING AND SPEAKING
Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment(Common European Framework of Reference, CEFR) is a system of levels of foreign language proficiency used in the European Union. The relevant directive was developed by the Council of Europe as the main part of the Language Learning for European Citizenship project between 1989 and 1996. The main purpose of the CEFR system is to provide an assessment and teaching method applicable to all European languages. In November 2001, a resolution of the Council of the European Union recommended the use of CEFR to establish national systems for assessing language competence.
Today, this classification offers us three levels, each of which has two sublevels:
■ Beginner (A1)
In the classroom. The student understands and uses phrases and expressions necessary to accomplish specific tasks. (Remember, in foreign lessons: “Sit down, open the textbooks?” This is it.) He can introduce himself and introduce another person, tell and answer simple questions about his family, home. Can maintain a simple dialogue - provided that the interlocutor speaks slowly, clearly and repeats three times.
In life. Yes, this is the Where are you from level and London is the capital city of Great Britain. If in a foreign country you can call yourself by name, inform the cafe that you want tea, poke your finger on the menu, ordering "this", and ask a passer-by where the Tower is - this is the level of survival. “Tu tickets to Dublin,” so to speak.
■ Below average (A2)
In the classroom. The student understands individual sentences and frequent expressions related to the main areas of life (information about himself and family members, shopping in a store, general information about work), and can also talk about it and support a conversation on everyday topics.
In life. At this level, you can already answer the standard question of the seller in the store (Do you need a package?), Withdraw money from the ATM if there is no menu in your native language, clearly tell the seller in the market how many kilograms of peaches you need, instead of expressively gesturing , you can navigate the city, rent a bike and much more.
There is still a long way to free dialogue about Nietzsche, but, as you noticed, the key word in defining this level is basic. From now on, your knowledge will be enough to survive in a foreign city.
■ Medium (B1)
In the classroom. The student understands the essence of messages clearly articulated in literary language. Subjects of messages: everything that surrounds a person during work, study, rest, etc. Being in the country of the target language, he is able to communicate in most standard life situations. He can compose a simple message on an unfamiliar topic, describe his impressions, tell about some events and plans for the future, substantiate his opinion on any issue.
In life. The name of this level - self-sufficient ownership - suggests that you can be in a foreign country and act independently in most situations. Here we mean not only and not so much shops (this is the previous level), but also going to the bank, to the post office, going to the hospital, communicating with colleagues at work, teachers at school, if your child is studying there. Having attended a performance in a foreign language, you are unlikely to be able to fully appreciate acting skills and the talent of the director, but you can already tell your colleagues exactly where you went, what the play was about and whether you liked it.
■ Above average (B2)
In the classroom. The student understands the general content of complex texts on abstract and concrete topics, including highly specialized texts. He speaks quickly and spontaneously enough to communicate with native speakers effortlessly.
In life. In fact, this is already the level of the language that most people use in Everyday life... We don’t discuss string theory or the architecture of Versailles with our colleagues at lunch. But we often discuss new films or popular books. And the most wonderful thing is that now they will become available to you: there is no need to look for films and publications adapted to your level - with many works, and not only modern ones, you will do a great job yourself. But, of course, there is still a long way to go before reading special literature or fully understanding the terminology of the TV series "House".
■ Advanced (C1)
In the classroom. The student understands voluminous complex texts on various topics, recognizes metaphors, hidden meanings. Can speak spontaneously, at a fast pace, without choosing words. Uses language effectively to communicate in professional activity... Owns all methods of creating texts on complex topics (detailed descriptions, complex grammatical structures, special vocabulary, etc.).
In life. At this level, you can participate in seminars, watch films and read books without restrictions, communicate with native speakers as freely as with your compatriots.
■ Professional (C2)
In the classroom. The student understands and can compose almost any written or oral communication.
In life. You can write a dissertation, give a lecture and participate on an equal basis with native speakers in a discussion on any general or professional topic.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEVELS OF LEARNING AND SKILLS
The classification of levels of English proficiency is somewhat different. It is not always clear what the teachers of English courses mean when they promise you to achieve the Advanced level from scratch in a year, and what the employer wants if they indicate the Upper-Intermediate level in the vacancy announcement. To be clear, let's compare the levels of proficiency in European languages and English (see table).
Beginner
Yes, this level is not indicated in our table. This is the beginning of beginnings. There is no question of any language proficiency at this stage, but this is the foundation on which the house will be built - your language proficiency. And how strong this foundation will be depends on how beautiful, large and reliable this house will be.
■ Knowledge and skills at the Beginner level. At this level, you will start by learning the alphabet, English phonetics, numbers and basic
features of grammar: three simple tenses, direct word order in sentences, absence of cases and genders.
Pay special attention to phonetics, try to understand the difference between intonation in interrogative and declarative sentences.
Practice your pronunciation. When you learn the language well, a terrible accent will not only ruin the experience, but also make communication difficult. Then it will be much more difficult to fix it.
■ Training period. Usually, to acquire such a store of knowledge, it takes about four months of group lessons. Studying with a tutor, this result can be achieved much faster.
■ What is the result. If an Englishman turns to you on the street with a request to help him find the embassy, you will be upset, because you can still figure out the word "embassy", and he will pronounce everything else in such a way that you hardly ever recognize him as an Englishman.
Elementary
This level corresponds to the A1 level in the European classification and is called the survival level. This means that if you get lost in a foreign country, you can ask and then, according to the instructions, find your way (suddenly the phone with the navigator is discharged), you will be able to check into a hotel, buy food not only in the supermarket, but also in the market, where you will have to enter with the seller albeit in a short, but rather lively dialogue. In general, from this moment you will not be lost.
■ Knowledge and skills at the Elementary level. If you have reached this level, you already know a lot more.
■ Our recommendations. Do not try to jump over grammar in pursuit of vocabulary - it only seems simple at first, in fact, with an increase in the level of complexity, many nuances appear. If you do not pay attention to them, it will be difficult later to eradicate errors in speech.
Learn the numbers and methods of their formation to complete automaticity.
Write down the names of those objects that surround you in the dictionary and memorize them. So you can ask the hotel for a pen or a needle and thread, offer a guest a glass of water, buy on the market not "this here", but an avocado.
Training period: 6-9 months depending on the intensity of the activity and your abilities.
What is the result. Now our Englishman has a real chance to get to the embassy.
Pre-Intermediate
This is the “pre-threshold level”. That is, at the very least, you climbed onto the porch. Now you stand in front of the threshold, and your main task is to step over it. This is so in any language, not only in English. At this level, it suddenly becomes really difficult. A lot of new vocabulary appears, and the amount of grammar knowledge that the teacher diligently puts into your head increases dramatically. New information hits you like a wave. But if you emerge now, you are almost guaranteed to learn this language.
■ Knowledge and skills on Pre-Intermediate level. At this level, the list of your knowledge and skills is significantly expanded.
In fact, we can say that language proficiency begins from this level. You will not only survive in an unfamiliar city and be able to make acquaintances, but you will also begin to independently increase your level of knowledge of the language. An understanding of what vocabulary is missing in the first place will begin to come to you, you will clearly see your weak points and you will already know what needs to be done to improve them.
In addition, here we can already talk about the use of language in work. The secretary, who speaks English at the Pre-Intermediate level, may not be able to call the hotel to clarify the details of the reservation, but he will definitely be able to write a letter there. He will also be able to compose a message about a meeting, receive guests and have a small talk with them so popular in the English environment.
■ Our recommendations. Never give up! You can handle it. If you understand that some topic is not given to you, do not be lazy to deal with it - by contacting the teacher, either on your own, or with the help of numerous Internet resources. Without any tests, you suddenly discover how much you already know and how much is already obtained. At this moment, you can safely walk through the threshold - go to the next level.
■ Training period: six to nine months. And here it is better not to rush.
■ What is the result. Our Englishman is guaranteed to get to the embassy thanks to your recommendations. You, too, will be extremely pleased with yourself.
Intermediate
This is the first self-sufficient level. Congratulations if you speak the language at that level. This means that you have entered a new world, where many amazing discoveries await you. Now borders are convention for you. You can make acquaintances in all corners of the globe, read news on the Internet, understand jokes in English, comment on photos of your friends from the United States on Facebook, chat with friends from China and Peru while watching the World Cup. You have found a voice.
■ Knowledge and skills at the Intermediate level. In addition to what was listed at the previous levels, you know and are able to:
The Intermediate level is not in vain that many employers demand. In fact, this is the level of free communication in the office (unless, of course, you are in the habit of discussing the principle of operation of the power steering over coffee). This is the level of working with documents and maintaining a free conversation on general and general professional topics.
Yes, as long as it's not free ownership. You are still choosing words in your mind, using a dictionary while reading books - in a word, until you can "think in language." And no, it won't get any easier for you. But you get really interested. You will not be able to stop.
■ Our recommendations. At this level, you can increase the stock of professional vocabulary. A solid vocabulary on the topic of discussion automatically and very noticeably increases your level of language proficiency in the eyes of the interlocutor. If you have where to apply knowledge (work, study, hobby), do not neglect this opportunity. Remember also that language is alive, it is constantly evolving.
Read not only adapted classics, but also books by modern authors in English, watch videos on topics of interest to you, listen to songs.
■ Training period: 6-9 months.
■ What is the result. Perhaps you have half an hour - why not accompany this sweet English gentleman to the embassy.
Upper-Intermediate
This is the first level of language proficiency, sufficient for a trouble-free living in another country. You can chat with your neighbors, go to a party, and even go to the theater. Not to mention work. Most specialists who receive job offers in another country speak the language at least at this level.
■ Knowledge and skills at the Upper-Intermediate level. So, what new do you know and can do:
In fact, B2 is already free ownership. No, of course, there are still limitations. It is unlikely that you will be able to do "House" or "The Big Bang Theory" - they have a lot of special vocabulary, and even play on words. But after watching a classic performance, you will not only understand what it is about, but you will also be able to enjoy the acting.
You will stop listening to half of your favorite songs because you realize what nonsense there is in the lyrics. Your world will become much larger, not to mention the fact that with such a level there is a chance to go to work abroad and enter a foreign university.
Read as many fictional texts as possible to make your speech rich and imaginative. It will also help you to make fewer mistakes in writing - constantly meeting a word in the text, we remember how it is spelled.
Take a vacation in the country of the target language and speak as much as possible there. It is best to take an intensive language course, for example in Malta. But this is a very costly event. On the other hand, it is in such places that you can make useful business contacts. So consider spending on such a trip as an investment in a happy future.
■ Training period depends on so many factors: your efforts and abilities, as well as how intensively you study and how good your teacher is. You can meet a year.
■ What is the result. While walking with the Englishman to the embassy, they chatted at ease and even giggled a couple of times.
Advanced
This is the level of fluency in English. Above it is only the level of the carrier. That is, around you, when you master the language at this level, there will be almost no one who knows the language better. Indeed, it is true that 80% of your communication in English falls on communication not with native speakers, but with those who, like you, have learned it. As a rule, graduates of the philological faculty in the specialty "English" speak the language at this level. What does free ownership mean? The fact that you can talk on any topic, even if you hardly understand the subject. Yes, like in Russian. Having reached this level, you can get one of the certificates: CAE (Certificate in Advanced English), IELTS - for 7-7.5 points, TOEFL - for 96-109 points.
■ Knowledge and skills at the Advanced level
Congratulations on your freedom! This level is quite enough for everyday life and office work. You will clearly explain to your boss why you need a salary increase, and to your English husband why it seems to you that he does not love you.
■ Our recommendations. Having reached this level, you not only speak the language, you know how to think in it. Even if for some reason you will not use it for a long time, then in a short time you will completely restore all knowledge on your own.
■ What is the result. You had a pleasant time walking the Englishman to the embassy and chatting with him on the way. And they didn't even notice that he was lisping.
Proficiency
This is the level of an educated native speaker. Educated is the key word. That is, this is a person who graduated from the university and has a bachelor's degree. The Proficiency level is close to the native speaker's level of proficiency. As a rule, only people who graduated from the university in the country of the target language know him this way (and even then not always).
■ Knowledge and skills at the Proficiency level. If you know the language so well, it means that you can take part in scientific conferences, write scientific work, you can get an academic degree in the country of the target language.
Yes, this is exactly the level of "House Doctor" and "The Big Bang Theory". This is the level at which you will not have any difficulties in communication: you will equally well understand a grandmother from Brooklyn, a professor from the University of Massachusetts, and an Englishman who, on the way to the embassy, will tell you why he considers untenable
the big bang theory. Having a command of the language at this level, you can get a CPE certificate, IELTS (8-9 points), TOEFL (110-120 points).
■ Work prospects. As you can see, if you write "fluency" on your resume, the employer will decide that you have at least an Upper-Intermediate level. The funny thing is that your level may be lower, but he will not notice it, because most often the employer needs an employee with English at the level “Good afternoon. Do you want tea or coffee? ", But at the same time in the requirements for the applicant, he writes" fluency ".
Fluency in the language is required when working as an expat or in a foreign company. Or if you are entrusted with the duties of not only a personal assistant, but also an interpreter. In all other cases
for the high-quality performance of their duties and a comfortable stay in the office, the Intermediate level is quite enough.
It is also very important to remember that even if you know English at the Upper-Intermediate (B2) level and higher, then in preparation for negotiations, a speech, a conversation on a specialized topic, it is necessary to compile a glossary.
Perhaps you have ever noticed that some translators during negotiations do not translate some of the phrases. Most often these are irresponsible translators who were too lazy to prepare and learn new vocabulary. They just don't understand what this is about.
But some mining engineer in the same negotiations, who is familiar only with Present Simple, can be much more useful than a professional translator. Because he works with technology, knows all the words, draws a diagram on a piece of paper with a pencil - and now everyone has already understood each other. And if they have AutoCAD, they don't need a translator, or even Present Simple: they will understand each other perfectly.
LANGUAGE CERTIFICATES
What certificates are we talking about here all the time? This refers to official documents confirming your knowledge of the English language.
■ CAE(Certificate in advanced English) is an English language exam developed and administered by the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) division of the University of Cambridge.
Designed and first introduced in 1991. The certificate corresponds to level C1 of the common European language classification. The validity period of the certificate is not limited. Needed for admission to universities, where training in progress in English, and job placement.
Where to get a certificate: in Moscow, the CAE exam is accepted by Education First Moscow, Language Link, BKC-IH, Center for Language Studies. Other educational organizations are also accepted, but they only work with their own students. A complete list of centers where you can take the exam is available at www.cambridgeenglish.org/find-a-centre/find-an-exam-centre.
■ CPE(Certificate of Proficiency in English) is an English language exam developed and administered by the University of Cambridge ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). The certificate corresponds to the C2 level of the common European language classification and confirms the highest level of proficiency in English. The validity period of the certificate is not limited.
Where to get a certificate: take courses and take an exam is offered by the Moscow Institute of Foreign Languages: www.mosinyaz.com.
Testing and exam preparation centers in other cities of Russia and the world can be found at the link: www.cambridgeenglish.org/find-a-centre/find-an-exam-centre.
■ IELTS(International English Language Testing System) is an international testing system for determining the level of knowledge in the field of the English language. The system is good in that it tests knowledge in four aspects: reading, writing, listening, speaking. Needed for admission to universities in Great Britain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland. And also for those who plan to leave for one of these countries for permanent residence.
Where to get certified, see www.ielts.org/book-a-test/find-atest-location.
■ TOEFL(Test of English as a Foreign Language, Test of knowledge of English as a foreign language) is a standardized test of knowledge of English (in its North American version), the passing of which is mandatory for non-English-speaking foreigners when entering universities in the USA and Canada, as well as Europe and Asia ... The test results are also accepted in a number of other English-speaking and non-English-speaking countries for admission to universities with English as the language of instruction. In addition, the test results may be in demand when recruiting to foreign companies. The test results are stored in the company's database for 2 years, after which they are deleted.
The certificate also assesses language proficiency in four aspects.
Where to get the certificate: www.ets.org/bin/getprogram.cgi?test=TOEFL.
WHERE TO GO TO STUDY?
This is the most important question. Of course, if you graduated from the English department of philology, he is not in front of you. In all other cases, you will have to make this difficult choice.
■ Tutor. Courses or Tutor? I'm for a tutor. Moreover, for classes in a group of two. Three is a lot, but one is expensive and not as effective.
Why one-to-one training? Because in this case, the teacher sees all your strengths and weak sides, he has no task to bring the course to an "acceptable" level for the exam and forget about the group, he has the task of really teaching you the language, because then thanks to word of mouth he will have more students and, consequently, earnings.
In addition, the specificity of the profession of a tutor is that every minute of his working time is paid. And when a person works in such conditions, he cannot afford to cheat.
Working in pairs is better because it is disciplined. You can cancel the class because of bad weather or a fit of laziness - you pay the tutor where he goes. But conscience will not allow to disrupt the lesson, which is planned for two.
Where to find and how to choose a tutor? First of all, on the recommendation of friends, whose successes inspire you.
If there are no such acquaintances, you need to find courses with a solid educational institution: university, institute, consulate. They try to hire good teachers there - they keep the brand. And teachers go there because they see such courses as a free advertising space for recruiting individual students. You can go there to the level you need, and there you will already agree with the teacher. By the way, now language schools often present teaching staff on their websites, and you can search the Internet for reviews of specialists.
■Language schools. If you decide to take courses in language school, choose accredited centers where you can take an exam for one of the certificates. As a rule, such schools have a good level of teaching, there are various exchange programs, study abroad, the teachers in them are native speakers.
■ Skype. Another option is to learn English via Skype. Why not?
This can be done both at work, if conditions permit, and at home. From international well-established schools, we advise you to pay attention to Glasha: www.glasha.biz.
■ Study courses abroad.
If you have the opportunity (financial) and knowledge of the language is not lower than the Intermediate level, then you can choose language courses abroad. For example, here: www.staracademy.ru. Yes, there is training in Australia. And then there are summer camps for adults. In Malta. And in Ireland. And many other places. It is expensive but very effective.
TIPS AND USEFULNESS IN LEARNING A LANGUAGE
■ Learn grammar. Reading adapted literature is boring. Helpful but intolerable. Learning grammar is a nightmare. But grammar in language is like a formula in mathematics. Learned them - you can move on and take new heights. No - it will only get worse, and with each step there is less and less chance of reaching the top.
■ Use all available resources. In the pursuit of knowledge, all means are good: interactive Internet resources, comics, video games, tabloid literature, beauty blogs - whatever.
The more interesting the topic is for you, the easier it will be for you to learn. And also try to find or organize a conversation club (you can even create a group in WhatsApp) and discuss topics of your concern there. No, not what books did you like from those you read this year, but what qualities infuriate you in your partner, for which you are still offended by your mother, and when the stadium on Krestovsky Island is finally completed. When a person is interested in a subject, he will find a way to say about it.
■ Read books. Starting from the Intermediate level, you can safely read:
Sophie Kinsella's books;
Her works under the name Madeleine Wickham;
The episode about Bridget Jones;
Jane Austen;
Somerset Maugham.
Choose books by modern authors, where there is no twisted detective plot, complex allegoricality, excessive philosophizing, and a large amount of special vocabulary. You need a simple narrative text: she wanted to marry him, and he wanted to be an astronaut. And so three hundred pages. You will get used to modern British / American / other English, learn new words willy-nilly and at the same time will not get confused in the twists and turns of the plot and high feelings of the main character.
■ Watch movies and TV shows:
Any action films, especially with subtitles - there are few dialogues, the video sequence is beautiful;
Comedies in the spirit of "Home Alone", "We are the Millers", "Beethoven" - no reasoning about the philosophy of Nietzsche, a simple and understandable plot, a lot of everyday vocabulary;
Melodrama format "Eat, Pray, Love";
TV series "Sex in big city"," Friends "," The Simpsons ", etc.
Learning a language is a long and hard way... It's also very interesting. In addition to knowing the language, you will receive a pleasant bonus - you will begin to understand how native speakers think. And it will open up another world for you. And if you lack motivation, just remember that you have no choice. Modern man must know English. And the point.
