The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an international standard for describing language ability. It defines language competence on a six-point scale, from A1 for beginners, up to C2 for those who have mastered a language. The goal of any language speaker is to reach level C2 in terms of proficiency. The ratings are as follows: A1 to A2: Basic B1 to B2: Independent C1 to C2: Proficient As previously mentioned, to be considered proficient in a language, there are four foundational skills that need to be learned and developed: writing, reading, speaking and listening. BOHE is cognizant of these as well as the progressive nature of teaching and learning a language.It is for this reason that our learning programme is progressive, in that it begins with basic language principles, for example, correct sentence construction and punctuation and extends to more advanced concepts, for example, the impact of figurative expression in a variety of texts. The CEFR framework allocates certain competencies to specific ratings, for example, during early learning (up to level B1), a relatively neutral register is appropriate, unless there are compelling reasons otherwise. It is this register that native speakers are likely to use towards and expect from foreigners and strangers generally. Acquaintance with more formal or more familiar registers is likely to come over a period of time, perhaps through the reading of different text-types, particularly novels, at first as a receptive competence. (CEFR: Difference in register 5.2.2.4 p. 120). BOHE has ensured that developmental learning from A1 to C2 is possible through a wide language of genres and formats, including literature excerpts, business vocabulary and effective language usage. Referring to the example on the use of register, the impact of informal and formal register is demonstrated and assessed in various contexts, first receptively and then in terms of output. BOHE Language has been designed to accommodate any English speaker, from a beginner at Level A1 to a fluent and proficient speaker at Level C2.
created with
