PAI Level Descriptor

Our courses range from classes for Basic users to Proficient users for a gradual improvement in the acquisition of the Italian language. Our programs follow the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR). In our school we divide the levels (A1, A2. B1. B2, C1) into sub levels/blocks of 12 weeks each. For instance, to achieve the A1 level, you would need to attend 2 group courses of 12 weeks each (one class per week): A1.1 and A1.2 levels. Then, in order to achieve the A2 level, you would need to attend 3 group courses of 12 weeks each (A2.1, A2.2. A2.3) and so on. We offer 3 terms of 12 week courses every year.

The CEFR aims to achieve a greater degree of uniformity and transparency in the study of foreign languages, among member nations of the European Union. This serves to increase mobility within member nations, facilitate mutual recognition of language certificates, and promote cooperation among educational institutions from different countries. The Framework defines the levels that determine linguistic capability in areas such as communicative proficiency, active and receptive skills, and linguistic proficiency with specific ends.

A1 Breakthrough
Students in this level can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows and things he/she has. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help. The classes at beginners’ level are taught in Italian with very little active use of English. It comprises 2 blocks: A1.1 and A1.2.

A2 Waystage
Students in this level can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of his/her background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need. 

It comprises 3 blocks: A2.1, A2.2, A2.3. An A2 Conversation and Revision course is also provided for students who wish to consolidate their skills before entering the B1 level. 

B1 Threshold
Students in this level can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. 

It comprises 3 blocks: B1.1, B1.2, B1.3. A  B1 Conversation and Revision course is also provided for students who wish to consolidate their skills before entering the B2 level.

B2 Vantage
Students in this level can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options. 

It comprises 3 blocks: B2.1, B2.2, B2.3. Further B2 Conversation and Revision courses are also provided for students who wish to consolidate their skills and deepen their knowledge of Italian culture before entering the C1 level.

C1 Proficiency
Students in this level can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.

It comprises 4 blocks: C1.1, C1.2, C1.3, C1.4. Further C1 Conversation and Revision courses are also provided for students who wish to consolidate their skills and deepen their knowledge of Italian culture before entering the C2 level.

C2 Mastery
A C2 student can easily understand practically everything read. The learner can reproduce information from different sources, both written and verbal, and present them in a brief and coherent manner. The student can express ideas fluently with a degree of precision, identify language nuances and interact in more complex situations.

It comprises 4 blocks: C2.1, C2.2, C2.3, C2.4. Further C2 Conversation and Revision courses are also provided for students who wish to consolidate their skills and deepen their knowledge of Italian culture.