A Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEF) has been produced by the Council of Europe and is in keeping with its goals of enhancing international communication, promoting mobility and increasing tolerance and respect for cultural diversity. It aims to provide a “comprehensive, transparent and coherent framework for language teaching".

A scale of Common Reference levels describes learner performance in six levels (from a ‘basic’ to a ‘proficient’ user) and five kinds of skill. The descriptors encourage self-assessment and have been integral to the development of the European Language Portfolio. CILT’s version of the European Language Portfolio for Adult and Vocational Purposes, see www.cilt.org.uk/qualifications/elp/adultelp.htm, includes a chart, which maps the six levels of the CEF to the UK qualifications frameworks and the National Language Standards.

The Framework will also be significant in the context of the languages ladder of the English National Languages Strategy which is indexed to it. See www.dfes.gov.uk/languages/languagesladder.cfm for a table giving approximate equivalences.

Further details of A Common European Framework of Reference for Languages can be accessed at www.coe.int/t/dg4/linguistic/CADRE_EN.asp.