1 Specification of language syllabuses and levels
- The Common European Framework of Reference uses six levels (A1 to C2) to describe language ability.
- Earlier Council of Europe specifications such as Waystage 1990 (at pre-intermediate level) and Threshold 1990 (at Intermediate level) attempted to link the Notional/Functional approach to structural syllabus design. They were shorter, more manageable documents. They also gave greater practical help to teachers and learners by providing detailed lists of microfunctions, grammatical forms, and vocabulary.
2 Examination Boards & Bodies for Learners of English
Cambridge English Exams are accepted by 20,000 universities, employers and governments around the world. They are regarded as a leading examination board for English language learning and teaching in the UK offering KET, PET, FCE, CPE, etc for learners and CELTA and DELTA as exam qualifications for teachers of English.
Using the levels (A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) from 'basic' to 'proficient' of the Common European Framework of Reference,
- KET - Key - is A2 (BASIC)
- PET - Preliminary - is B1 (INDEPENDENT)
- FCE - First - is B2 (INDEPENDENT)
- CAE - Advanced - is C1 (PROFICIENT), and
- CPE - Proficiency - is C2 (PROFICIENT).
Sample Learners' exams for KET / PET / FCE / CAE / CPE / SKILLS FOR LIFE and the examination handbooks can be downloaded from here.
3 Examination Boards & Bodies for Teachers of English
Teacher Training Exams offered by Cambridge English:
- CELTA Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- DELTA Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Train The Trainer
Teacher Training Exams offered by Trinity College:
International bodies involved in ELT: The British Council | IATEFL