Many language schools use A1 to C2 level descriptors to name their courses, but would you like to gain a deeper understanding of the CEFR and the meaning behind these labels? The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, often referred to as CEFR or CEFRL, is a widely used international standard to describe a student’s language skills. As a language teacher, it is essential to know and understand this framework, since it provides a universal, standardized benchmark for language proficiency. Moreover, the CEFR shifts the focus of determining language proficiency from isolated grammar to practical, “Can-Do” communicative skills, which allows teachers to set clear learning objectives, track student progress consistently, and select appropriate teaching materials.

The goal of this 2,5 hour workshop is to give teachers a general understanding of a complex document, focusing on the can-do approach and its direct influence on language lessons and curricula. Moreover, this workshop will help you with practical tasks such as:
– Assessing students’ written or oral productions
– Defining students’s level to find the right course for them
– Understanding how CEFR levels impact our syllabus
– Giving teachers clear guidelines to choose textbooks.

The workshop will be in English and you will work with English productions of ESL students as examples to assess and use as references, but teachers of all languages are welcome. After learning the main principles at the foundation of the CEFR, you will explore how to apply them in your language lessons. You will also discuss examples of level descriptors and see if you can retrace them in textbooks.

Preparation

Required preparation before the workshop:
– Listen to the interview of Dr Nick Saville talking about the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) and why it’s important: https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/english-research-group/interviews/ .
– Read the global assessment grid and try to assess your level in any foreign or second language you can speak: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uthEdS2B-bUw_pKd55lj4Yxq5dg5W3Ku/view?usp=drive_link .

The trainer

Francesca Branca is an experienced Italian language teacher and teacher trainer based in Amsterdam. She coordinates the Italian department at Taalhuis Amsterdam, where she has worked since 2018. With a background in languages and linguistics and a specialisation in teaching Italian as a foreign language, she combines a passion for grammar with an interactive, communicative approach. Francesca also leads training workshops for foreign language teachers, collaborating with organisations such as Levende Talen, Talenland and Alma, and promoting creative, learner-centred teaching.