Levels of language proficiency
During language learning, the vocabulary size required to achieve basic, intermediate and advanced proficiency can vary considerably depending on the target language and the language learning objectives. In general, however, the following guidelines can be applied.
Basic (A1-A2)
Vocabulary size: approximately 500-1000 words.
Characteristics:
- Knowledge of everyday expressions and basic vocabulary.
- Understanding and using simple sentences to meet everyday needs (e.g. personal and family information, shopping, work).
- Be able to communicate in simple terms when the interlocutor speaks slowly and clearly.
Vocabulary: learn and use the most common vocabulary such as nouns, verbs (present tense), adjectives, adverbs, simple prepositions. Basic conjugation and tenses (present tense, simple past).
Sentence structures: simple declarative and negative sentences, questions. Comprehension and use of basic compound sentences (e.g. sentences linked by the conjunction 'and').
Intermediate (B1-B2)
Vocabulary size: approximately 2000-4000 words.
Characteristics:
- Ability to understand most of what you hear or read in everyday life.
- Ability to make connections and form opinions.
- Ability to write at intermediate level and to respond appropriately in most communicative situations.
- Ability to communicate in most situations and to communicate in most situations
Vocabulary: expanding vocabulary, including more complex verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and prepositions. Use of different tenses and tenses (e.g. future tense, conditional tense, perfect tenses).
Sentence structures: forming complex sentences, including expressing chronological and causal relationships. Ability to use complex and compound sentences, using more varied structures and conjunctions (e.g. 'but', 'because').
Advanced (C1-C2)
Vocabulary size: approximately 4000-8000 words or more.
Characteristics:
- High level of language comprehension and expression.
- Ability to understand and produce complex and detailed texts, including professional and academic topics.
- Ability to communicate spontaneously and express subtle nuances in language.
Vocabulary: a wide and deep vocabulary, able to use subtle linguistic nuances and specific vocabulary of specialised fields. Advanced grammatical structures, including passive structures, conditional tenses and modified tenses.
Sentence structures: Ability to use complex and long sentences effectively, including subordinate compound sentences, subordinate clauses and multiple compound structures. High level of coherence and cohesion and understanding and application of the logical structure of the text.
These figures are indicative and the actual need will depend very much on the learner's individual goals, the language environment and the extent to which they intend to use the language both orally and in writing. In addition to expanding vocabulary, grammatical structures, pronunciation and communication skills are important in language learning.
