Levels of English Proficiency

Pre-Beginner

• Often a new arrival with little previous English training 

• Has a very limited vocabulary.

• Has nothing on which to base his ability to function, comprehend, and respond.  

• No knowledge of English beyond answers to simple questions like “What’s your name?” He/she may respond with “yes” or “no,” 

• May not be able to write in Western script. 

• Lacks sufficient vocabulary and oral comprehension to be able to follow directions or do simple classroom assignments. 

• Have no knowledge of the North American classroom and its participatory style. 

• Not able to work at entry elementary grade level

Beginner

• Understands some classroom directions and attempts to do simple assignments but with great hesitancy and misunderstanding. 

• Vocabulary is still greatly limited to commonly used words. 

• Reads and writes with great difficulty, usually below the assigned grade level. 

• May be unable to respond to some activities, which involve independent decision making, due to differences in the North American classroom or teacher style. 

• Responds very positively to extra attention from the instructor or other students.

Intermediate

• Participates in most classroom activities and follows directions adequately, though with frequent misunderstandings.  

• Vocabulary is limited but rapidly improving.  

• May feel comfortable enough in the classroom to respond orally, despite frequent errors and incorrect word selection. 

• May be able to do academic work with frequent writing and vocabulary help

• Exhibit growing confidence in ability to comprehend and respond in English

Advanced

• Able to participate and excel in all classroom and social activities, 

• Requires less frequent teacher intervention with vocabulary and directional assistance. 

• Able to read at with the help of a dictionary

• Writing skills may require more teacher support.