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Minimum level required

CREA-Langues is changing its way of working in 2022. The school will offer immersion courses for advanced levels only, in June and September. Our lessons are aimed at those who, according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL),meet the French level B2 to C2 (higher intermediate to advanced level).

If you are not entirely sure of your level, you can download the Council of Europe’s self-assessment grid.
You can also contact our school here in France to arrange an interview by telephone or via Zoom.

If you haven’t yet reached level B2 but would like to prepare for it, or if you’re not available for the CREA-Langues dates, you can contact Catherine, who’s been working with CREA-Langues for twenty years as a teacher and head of didactics. Catherine offers online and on-site courses in Provence, in the Luberon region, through her own company.

The following is a guide indicating the number of learning hours required to attain each CEFR level. Please remember that every learner progresses at a different rate depending on several factors such as level of motivation, time dedicated to personal study and pre-existing knowledge of other languages, amongst others.

Lessons according to level

Following a test and interview carried out on the first morning of the course.

Level “SAPHIR”

B1+/B2 level according to C.E.F.R. *

Aim: I can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain from either party. I can express and defend my opinions by giving relevant explanations and arguments. I can actively sustain a discussion within a familiar context, accounting for and justifying my views. I am able to use correct stress and intonation as well as ensure that my pronunciation seldom inhibits others’ understanding.

Level “VERT”

B2+/C1 level according to C.E.F.R. *

Aim: I can express myself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for words or expressions. I can present clear, detailed descriptions of complex subjects. I am able to understand extended speech even when it is not clearly structured and when relationships are only implied and not signalled explicitly. I can recognise a range of idiomatic expressions, common colloquialisms and changes of register. I am capable of perfecting my pronunciation of certain sounds and my melody of speech, where necessary.

Level “VERT+”

C1/C2 level according to C.E.F.R. *

We cannot always guarantee provision of the C1/C2 level class during your stay. Prior to enrolment, a Skype interview will be given to learners who consider their French to be of this standard. It may be possible to run a C1/C2 group if we have TFL or interpreters who sign up to the course.

Aim: I can produce clear, fluent, logically structured, effective speech which helps the recipient notice and remember the significant points. I am able to convey the finer shades of meaning related to complex subjects. I have a good familiarity with idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms. I can understand with ease virtually all forms of spoken language, whether live or recorded, even when delivered at fast native speed.

Note for all levels

Although groups are limited to 6 people, please bear in mind that each learner will demonstrate a varying level of aptitude in any given domain. For example, one learner may find it easier to take part in conversation, whilst another may feel more at ease with trying to understand a radio or television programme or grammar point. Although our main focus is on studying in small groups, we do also have a small number of places available for private lessons.

Learners’ progress is monitored on a daily basis throughout the week. Please be aware that groups may be restructured in accordance with these observations to ensure that we provide the best learning experience for each individual.

(*) Source: www.coe.int (CEFR, Common Reference Levels Global Scale & Companion volume with new descriptors)