B1 English Level (Intermediate)
Though learning a language may appear effortless for some, it takes time and effort to become proficient in any language. The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages is used extensively to specify the different levels of English skills while listening, speaking, reading and writing English. Individuals who can communicate in English independently without any assistance from other people in English are considered to have level B1 English language skills. However, in some cases, individuals may have B1-level speaking and listening skills, yet have lower-level reading and writing skills.
B1 English Level Skills
A B1 English–level student has adequate reading skills to understand written text on topics with which he or she is familiar in standard English. Such students’ English listening and comprehension skills are sufficient for communication with others while traveling or on a holiday in a country or place where English is widely used. The student with B1-level writing skills in English can also produce simple, well-organized written text on topics he or she is interested in or familiar with. These students’ English vocabulary and speaking skills are good enough for expressing opinions on various topics, making plans with others, and describing aspirations, events and experiences to others
The B1-level tests are different for each of the four main English skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking.
Tests for Intermediate-level B1-level listeners include listening and understanding more complex lectures, conversations or speeches, especially on topics which which the student is not familiar. Some of the sample tests include listening to recordings of teachers, guides or other experts on unfamiliar topics. In other cases, the student listens to conversations, discussion or radio recordings. After listening to the recording, to test the listening skills, the student has to answer multiple choice questions.
For B1-level Reading tests, students have to read text material which they will normally handle regularly, while studying, at the workplace, doing leisure activities and while on a holiday, travelling. Some of the typical reading texts provided as part of the test are reading a travel guide, a program for a conference, a request for help on email, an entry in an encyclopedia, or the schedule or program for a conference. To check the reading English comprehension skills, the student will have to answer relevant questions based on the text.
B1-level exercises involve being able to write simple sentences on topics you are familiar with, or may be personally interested in. Some of the exercises for practicing English at this level include updating your professional profile, preparing a report for a meeting, writing a review, giving advice to others, describing a job interview or posting on a class forum.
