The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
Used Across All CHAPTR Language Tutoring Programs
At CHAPTR House of Education, we use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) as the foundation for all our language tutoring programs. The CEFR is an internationally recognized system that describes how language ability grows from beginner to advanced proficiency. It allows our tutors to evaluate each student’s starting point, set clear learning goals, and track progress using a transparent and globally respected standard.
The CEFR helps us bridge students’ classroom experiences with individualized learning. It ensures that families understand exactly where their child stands, how their skills are developing, and what is required to move confidently toward higher levels—whether that means school-based language classes, bilingual education, or the IB Diploma Programme.
The CEFR is divided into three stages—Basic, Independent, and Proficient—each with two levels. Below, the levels are listed from A1 (beginner) to C2 (near-native mastery) with CHAPTR-specific descriptions.
Basic User
A1 – Beginner
Official descriptor
Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases. Can introduce themselves and others and ask/answer simple questions about personal details.
What this looks like at CHAPTR
Students learn essential phrases, foundational vocabulary, and beginner grammar through guided practice. Tutors help them develop confidence by using the language in short, supported exchanges and by practicing real-life “survival language” in a low-pressure environment.
A2 – Elementary
Official descriptor
Can understand sentences and expressions related to areas of immediate relevance. Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring direct information exchange.
What this looks like at CHAPTR
Tutors help students expand vocabulary, build longer sentences, and practice real-life communication—ordering food, describing routines, talking about interests. Students begin reading short texts with the tutor’s support.
Independent User
B1 – Intermediate
Official descriptor
Can understand the main points of familiar topics and handle most travel situations. Can write connected text and describe experiences, events, opinions, and plans.
What this looks like at CHAPTR
Students learn to communicate more confidently and independently. Tutors guide them through structured paragraph writing, conversational practice, and comprehension strategies. They begin expressing personal viewpoints with support.
B2 – Upper Intermediate
Official descriptor
Can understand complex texts and interact with fluency. Can produce clear, detailed writing and explain viewpoints with advantages and disadvantages.
What this looks like at CHAPTR
Learners develop flexible, academic communication skills. Tutors support them with advanced vocabulary, structured argumentation, and preparation for high-level coursework. This is also where students often begin preparing for IB Language B.
Proficient User
C1 – Advanced
Official descriptor
Can understand demanding texts, recognize implicit meaning, and express themselves fluently and flexibly in academic and professional contexts.
What this looks like at CHAPTR
Tutors help students refine tone, nuance, and style, as well as develop advanced academic and literary writing skills. This level aligns closely with IB Language A: Language & Literature and IB Language A: Literature expectations.
C2 – Mastery
Official descriptor
Can understand virtually everything heard or read and express ideas with precision, subtlety, and sophistication.
What this looks like at CHAPTR
Students communicate with the fluency of an educated native speaker. Tutors guide them in high-level academic discourse, cultural analysis, and advanced writing or literature study.
How CHAPTR Uses the CEFR in Tutoring
At CHAPTR, the CEFR helps us:
- Identify each student’s level before tutoring begins
- Create personalized learning plans
- Communicate progress clearly to families
- Set internationally recognized goals
- Prepare students for school-based language tracks, bilingual education, and IB pathways
- Support advanced students with MYP and IB Language A/B coursework
- Ensure consistency across all languages we tutor
All CHAPTR tutors are certified, native-speaking instructors who use CEFR-aligned strategies to provide rigorous, culturally rich, and developmentally appropriate tutoring at every level.