French
French
Spanish
Beginner level
Reading comprehension
The beginner level is the basic level of second-language reading comprehension for international students, including the understanding of texts of limited scope.
Persons reading at this level can:
- fully understand very simple texts;
- grasp the main theme of texts about familiar topics, and
- read and understand simple points of information such as dates, numbers or names from relatively more complex texts in order to perform the routine tasks of a job.
Written expression / grammar
- Written expression or grammar in the second official language evaluates all the levels of competency necessary for bilingual positions in the Public Service. The definition of each of these levels follows.
- Ability to write points of information of limited scope in the second language; ability to write isolated words, phrases, simple statements or questions on very familiar topics using words of time, place or person.
Oral proficiency
Learners at the beginner level can partially understand speech that deals with concrete and routine topics and is delivered slowly and clearly in standard speech. Can make themselves understood in short contributions, even though pauses and false starts are very evident. Can talk about their routine activities and handle a simple question-and-answer exchange. Have sufficient basic vocabulary and grammatical structures to conduct routine transactions involving familiar situations and topics. Use structures and vocabulary borrowed from another language, which can interfere with the clarity of the message. Have pronunciation that requires close attention from the listener, but there are no long stretches that are unclear.
