NativeUK Online English Lessons
Online English Speaking Club Hosted by NativeUK.com

What the f*@k does B1 mean?

OK, calm down — you've seen all those crazy numbers and letters on the schedule for the online English speaking club you want to join, but you're not sure what they mean. Let me explain...

CEFR English level chart

A FREE online English speaking club with a British native speaker. CEFR

There is a thing called CEFR and it stands for the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It's basically a set of "can" and "can't" dos for someone who is learning or speaks a language. It's a way of assessing someone's language skills, and it's used by language schools, universities, and employers around the world to gauge the language skills of their students and employees.

There are six main levels ranging from A1 (beginner) all the way to C2 (proficient) and they look like this:

A1 – Beginner

At this level, you can understand and use simple expressions and phrases related to familiar topics such as personal information, shopping, or food. You can also introduce yourself and ask and answer simple questions about yourself.

A2 – Elementary

At this level, you can understand and use simple sentences related to everyday situations such as shopping, traveling, or describing your hobbies. You can also communicate in basic social situations, such as asking for directions or ordering food.

A2+ – Pre-intermediate

This isn't an official level in the CEFR, but as you can guess, it is in the middle of A2 and B1. You can already say more, but you're not quite at full B1 yet.

B1 – Intermediate

At this level, you can understand and use more complex language structures related to a wide range of topics such as work, travel, or current events. You can express your opinions and ideas, and participate in discussions on familiar topics. Many of our free online English speaking clubs are ideal for B1 learners.

B2 – Upper-Intermediate

At this level, you can understand and use complex language structures related to a variety of topics such as literature, politics, or science. You can communicate fluently and spontaneously, and express your opinions clearly and in detail. Our English speaking courses are perfect if you're here and want to push towards C1.

C1 – Advanced

At this level, you can understand and use complex language structures related to abstract and complex topics such as philosophy, politics, or academic subjects. You can communicate effectively and accurately, and express yourself with ease in a variety of situations.

C2 – Proficient

At this level, you have a near-native or native level of proficiency in the language. You can understand and use the language with ease and accuracy, and express yourself with nuance and subtlety.

If you're not sure which level you are, joining a FREE online speaking club is a great way to "test" your level in a natural, friendly way.