CEF Intermediate

Level B1

I can understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar, everyday subjects, provided there is an opportunity to get repetition or clarification sometimes.
I can understand what is said to me in everyday conversations, but I sometimes need help in clarifying particular details.
I can understand the main points of discussion on familiar topics in everyday situations when people speak clearly, but I sometimes need help in understanding details.
I can follow clearly spoken, straightforward short talks on familiar topics.
I can understand the main points in TV programmes on familiar topics when the delivery is relatively slow and clear.
I can understand simple technical information, such as operating instructions for familiar types of equipment.

I can understand the main points in straightforward factual texts on subjects of personal or professional interest well enough to talk about them afterwards.
I can find and understand the information I need in brochures, leaflets and other short texts relating to my interests.
I can understand the main points in short newspaper and magazine articles about current and familiar topics.
I can follow simple instructions, for example for a game, using familiar types of equipment or cooking a meal.
I can understand simplified versions of novels, and follow the story line in short stories with a clear structure, with some effort and regular use of a dictionary.
I can understand private letters about events, feelings and wishes well enough to write back.

I can start, maintain and close simple face-to-face conversation on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
I can express and respond to feelings and attitudes like surprise, happiness, sadness, interest and disinterest.
I can give or seek personal opinions in an informal discussion with friends, agreeing and disagreeing politely.
I can help to solve practical problems, saying what I think and asking others what they think.
I can find out and pass on uncomplicated factual information.
I can ask for and follow detailed directions.
I can manage unexpected things that could happen on holiday, e.g. needing a dentist or getting a bike repaired.
I can make arrangements on the telephone or in person, e.g. booking flights, hotels, rental cars, restaurants, cinemas, etc.
I can have simple telephone conversations with people I know.

I can give descriptions on a variety of familiar subjects related to my interests.
I can talk in detail about my experiences, feelings and reactions.
I can briefly explain and justify my opinions.
I can give a short prepared presentation on a very familiar area (e.g. “My country”) and answer clear questions.
I can relate the main content of short texts I have read.

I can write short, comprehensible connected texts on familiar subjects.
I can write simple texts about experiences or events, for example about a trip, describing my feelings and reactions.
Working to a standard format, I can write very brief reports which pass on routine factual information on matters relating to my field.
I can write emails, faxes or text messages to friends or colleagues, relating news and giving or asking for simple information.
I can write a short formal letter asking for or giving simple information.

I can ask someone to clarify or elaborate what they have just said.
I can repeat back part of what someone has said to confirm that we understand each other.
When I can’t think of a word, I can use a word meaning something similar and invite “correction” from the person I am talking to.
I can ask for confirmation that a form is correct and correct some basic mistakes if I have time to do so.

I know enough vocabulary to talk about my family, hobbies and interests, work, travel, news and current events.
When I explain something, I can make the other person understand the points that are most important to me.
I can link a series of short phrases into a connected, sequence of points.
I can express myself reasonably accurately in familiar, predictable situations.
I can keep a conversation going, but sometimes have to pause to plan and correct what I am saying.
I can use simple expressions politely in a neutral way in everyday situations.