Why Your English Level is WRONG (A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2)

Summary

This video challenges common misconceptions about the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), explaining that it was created by the Council of Europe, not the EU, and is often misused as a rigid standard for language learning. The speaker highlights that the CEFR is not meant to assign fixed levels but to encourage individualized learning based on personal needs and interactions. The true purpose is to promote human rights and intercultural communication, urging learners to focus on proficiency over arbitrary levels and tests.

Takeaways

• 😀 The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is widely known and used, but many misunderstand its purpose and origin.
• 🤔 The CEFR was created by the Council of Europe, a human rights organization, not the European Union.
• 💡 The CEFR's original goal was to foster democratic citizens and intercultural dialogue, not just to create a technical language standard.
• 📚 The CEFR's six levels (A1-C2) are not meant to be a rigid standard for exams, but have become misused by institutions like TOEFL and IELTS.
• 🤑 The misuse of the CEFR levels for exams and certifications has led to a profitable industry, frustrating its creators.
• 🎯 The true purpose of the CEFR is to guide learners in developing language skills they need for real-life communication, not to fit into a predefined standard.
• 🌍 Language learning is more about proficiency in specific areas (e.g., informal discussions or technical presentations) than achieving a uniform skill level across all areas.
• 👨‍🎓 Good language learning is tailored to individual needs and focused on what a learner can do, rather than emphasizing deficiencies.
• 🛑 Rigid curricula and graded tests often contradict the core human-rights-based philosophy of the CEFR, which emphasizes personal growth and freedom in learning.
• 🏞️ The CEFR encourages learners to become independent and use language to engage with different cultures, promoting openness and personal freedom.

Q & A

What is the CEFR, and how is it typically perceived?

The CEFR, or Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, is a widely recognized framework for teaching, learning, and assessing languages. It is most well-known for its six levels, from A1 to C2, which are commonly associated with language proficiency. However, many misunderstand the CEFR, viewing it primarily through exam results, vocabulary lists, and other technical aspects.

Who created the CEFR, and why is this important?

The CEFR was created by the Council of Europe, a human rights organization, not the European Union, as many believe. This distinction is important because it reflects the CEFR's foundational goal of fostering democratic citizenship and intercultural dialogue, rather than serving as a purely technical or political tool.

Why is it surprising that CEFR levels are not a 'standard'?

Although millions of people use the CEFR levels to assess language ability, the levels were deliberately designed not to be a fixed standard. This is surprising given how they are commonly used in exams and certifications for university and job applications, which is a misuse of the CEFR.

What is the Council of Europe's criticism of language exams like TOEFL and IELTS?

The Council of Europe criticizes exams like TOEFL and IELTS for misusing the CEFR by treating its levels as a rigid standard for certification. This commercialization distorts the CEFR’s intended purpose, frustrating the organization.

What is the original purpose of the CEFR, according to the script?

The original purpose of the CEFR was to promote democratic citizenship and intercultural dialogue through language learning. It was designed to help people become independent learners and effective communicators, rather than serving as a tool for standardized testing and certification.

How does the CEFR differ from traditional language learning approaches?

Traditional language learning focuses on a fixed curriculum, often punishing students for what they cannot do. The CEFR promotes a more personalized approach, emphasizing proficiency and real-world language skills that align with a learner’s needs and goals, rather than a rigid standard.

What is the problem with viewing language proficiency as equal across all skills?

Viewing language proficiency as equal across all skills is unrealistic. According to the CEFR, learners often have varying abilities in different language areas. For example, someone might be advanced in explaining technical data but only intermediate in informal conversations with friends.

How does the CEFR view language learning in terms of human rights?

The CEFR, developed by a human rights organization, views language learning as a means of fostering communication, understanding, and freedom. It opposes the idea of external authorities dictating what learners should study and how they should be judged, instead promoting learner autonomy and intercultural engagement.

Why is the CEFR's flexible perspective on language learning important for learners?

The CEFR's flexible perspective is important because it allows learners to focus on what they need to achieve their personal goals, rather than following a rigid curriculum. It encourages a positive, proficiency-based approach that highlights what learners can do, rather than punishing them for their deficiencies.

What is the main message for language learners at the end of the script?

The main message is that language learning should be about becoming an independent learner and using language to connect with others from different cultures. Learners should focus on developing their skills in a way that fits their unique needs and contexts, rather than chasing arbitrary levels or certificates.