Rating Speaking

To do extra Practice rating speaking, use the addresses below and refer to the scales in the
handouts or in the CEFR PDF.
Short commentaries (for most of the videos) and a link to a PDF with longer commentaries are
on the following pages.

Videos can be found at the addresses below. For the same list with indication of level, see page
3.
Maria [Link]
Masa [Link]

Tifaine and Clara [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-tifaine-clara-family

Zofia and Camille [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-zofia-camille-organising-holidays

Lucas and Marc [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-lucas-marc-organising-a-party

Audrey and Mathilde [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-audrey-mathilde-organising-a-party

Paul conversation [Link] monologue

[Link]

Amelie and Theo [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-amelie-theo-organising-holidays
Simon and Tiennot [Link]
certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-simon-tiennot-the-ideal-partner

Sylvia and Paul [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-sylvia-paul-organising-holidays

Theo and Blandine [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-theo-blandine-internet

Paul and Charlotte [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-paul-charlotte-the-ideal-partner

Alizee and Marie [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-alizee-marie-fashion

Annabelle and Xavier [Link]

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framework-of-reference-for/english-annabelle-xavier-advertising
Videos with levels indicated:
A1 (Maria) [Link]
A1 (Masa) [Link]
A1 (Tifaine and Clara) [Link]
certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-tifaine-clara-family

A2 (Zofia and Camille) [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-zofia-camille-organising-holidays

A2 (Lucas and Marc) [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-lucas-marc-organising-a-party

B1 (Audrey and Mathilde) [Link]

and-certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-audrey-mathilde-organising-a-party

B1 (Paul) conversation [Link] monologue

[Link]

B1 (Amelie and Theo) [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-amelie-theo-organising-holidays

B1/B2 (Simon and Tiennot) [Link]

and-certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-simon-tiennot-the-ideal-partner

B2 (Sylvia and Paul) [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-sylvia-paul-organising-holidays
B2 (Theo and Blandine) [Link]
certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-theo-blandine-internet

B2/C1 (Paul and Charlotte) [Link]

and-certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-paul-charlotte-the-ideal-partner

C1 (Alizee and Marie) [Link]

certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-
framework-of-reference-for/english-alizee-marie-fashion

C1/C2 (Annabelle and Xavier) [Link]

assessment-and-certifications/dvd-spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-
common-european-framework-of-reference-for/english-annabelle-xavier-advertising
Commentaries
Longer commentaries for most of the videos can be found at:
[Link]
cecrl/docs/comments_en.pdf
Shorter commentaries
Maria – very weak A1
[Link]
Maria is a good illustration of very weak A1. In the first part she understands most of the
questions and can follow some of the instruction when she is told to put things on the picture.
She produces one or two very short phrases ‘brown, dark brown’, ‘in sitting room’, ’no idea’, but
most of the time she answers with single words: ‘This?’ ‘Fish’, ‘pink’, ‘books’. She can answer
questions about personal details, but is totally dependent on the other person.
Masa – A1 Solid
[Link]
Masa is a good example for solid A1: he has a basic repertoire of words and simple phrases to
talk about very everyday matters: ‘I’m eleven years old’, ‘This is a computer, but this is…’,
‘happy’, ‘sea’, ‘Kai is tall, but Leo is same, my same.’ He can answer questions about personal
details, but need quite a lot help to overcome the pauses,
Tiffany – solid A1
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-tifaine-clara-family
Tiffany is A1: she has enough linguistic resources to deal with the very familiar topic of talking
about her family, but there is a lot of pausing to search for language and the communication
breaks down: eg when Tiffany didn’t have to language to ask about pets. She has a basic
repertoire of words: eg ‘French’, ‘cats’ and limited control of a few simple grammatical
structures: ‘yes, I have got a sister.’
Clara – strong A1
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-tifaine-clara-family
Clara is strong A1: despite her basic control of the language, she talks about her family quite
well. She keeps the interaction going and shows some control of basic grammatical structures
as well as vocabulary and asks questions: ‘How old is she?’, ‘ I have too a sister… she’s very
cute.’, ‘Have you got sister or brother?’
Camille – weak A2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-zofia-camille-organising-holidays
Camille is towards the weaker end of A2. She speaks more than her partner, but often pauses,
breaking down towards the end when searching for the word ‘activities’, which her partner
supplies; she often relies on her partner to move the conversation forward, but can generally
respond to simple statements. She uses some basic structures, but makes mistakes
systematically: ‘I don’t know, but we can organises…’, ‘We can ask to the English friends…’ and
there are more intrusive mistakes too: eg ‘How many times do you want to go?’
Zofia – solid A2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-zofia-camille-organising-holidays
Zofia demonstrates a solid A2 performance: she uses basic sentences and can make herself
understood in very short utterances, despite occasional false starts. She has some control over
basic grammar and vocabulary at A2 level: eg ‘What do you do during summer?’, ‘I want to go
to sea.’, ‘sea-sick’. She also keeps the interaction going quire well: eg ‘Yes, we can… but
where?’
Lucas – solid A2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-lucas-marc-organising-a-party
Lucas speaks at A2 level: he can make himself understood in short sentences and utterances
despite false starts. He can initiate and respond appropriately and he maintains the
conversation: eg ‘and the music’ and he uses basic linking: eg ‘so’, ‘and maybe’. There is some
control of simple structure and a basic range of vocabulary in this context: eg ‘I would like to eat
cakes and candies’, ‘and to drink, what do you want to drink?’
Marc – strong A2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-lucas-marc-organising-a-party
Marc is strong A2: he can make himself understood in short sentences and utterances despite
pausing to plan what he wants to say: for example, before talking about what drinks there will be
at the party. He can respond appropriately and maintain the conversation in this context: eg
‘what do you want to prepare?’ using basic linking: ‘so’, ‘because it my birthday’. There is some
range and accuracy with simple structures: eg ‘I want to listen’, ‘if you want…’.
Mathilde – weak B1
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-audrey-mathilde-organising-a-party
Mathilde is towards the weaker end of B1: she has sufficient language to deal with the task, but
her vocabulary is often quite limited: ‘good, attractive, sing, dance, friendly’. However, she does
show some good accuracy and control with ‘It’s going to be too complicated if we don’t do it’, but
slips with ‘Everyone have to…’ and ‘I don’t tell anyone…’ When it comes to interaction she often
lets her partner lead and she doesn’t develop the conversation effectively.
Audrey – solid B1
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-audrey-mathilde-organising-a-party
Audrey is solid B1: she has sufficient language to deal with the task and express herself,
despite some slips: eg ‘If it’s a costly restaurant, we can choose the menu for everyone.’ She
develops the interaction well and interacts well an initiates and carries the conversation asking
questions to keep the conversation going; ‘What do you think about buying….’
Paul – solid B1
conversation
[Link]
monologue
[Link]
These two clips are part of the same test and show a solid B1 performance. Paul interacts well
and responds to his partners questions. In terms of initiating he is a little weaker, but still is
capable of moving the conversation along: ‘I think the suitcase is a good idea’, ‘Yes, if he likes
playing football, he’ll never forget them.’ In his description of the room he keeps going showing
enough language: ‘She’s reading a book. On the left there’s a picture, but…’
Simon (on the left) – strong B1
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-simon-tiennot-the-ideal-partner
Simon illustrates strong B1 well: he is reasonably fluent, but there is noticeable hesitation while
he is searching for language and resorts to ‘real cool’ at one point as a coping strategy, the
subject is quite demanding and a little above what is normally required of B1. His vocabulary is
generally sufficient: ‘shy’, good looking’, get married’, but there are quite basic mistakes: ‘clothe
herself’ should be ‘dress’. He can initiate, maintain and close: where he says ‘yeah of course,
we’re a little bit young for this.’
Tiennot (on the right) – weak B2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-simon-tiennot-the-ideal-partner
Tiennot is a good illustration of weak B2: some of his language shows good control and range;
‘Get along well’, lucky balance’, ‘I miss being alone’, but there are one or two basic mistakes: eg
‘I doesn’t want’; these errors do not obscure the message of what he is trying to say. However,
he pauses, sometimes a little conspicuously when searching for language and sometimes his
delivery is halting. However, he takes the lead in the interaction and initiates and responds well
for most of the interaction.
Theo – solid B2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-theo-blandine-internet
Theo is in the middle of the B2 range: he talks quite fluently and effectively about the subject of
the internet. He initiates at the beginning of the interaction: ‘Do you ever play or get on…’ and
interacts well, helping his partner with the word ‘virus’. His grammatical control is B2: ‘I currently
have no access to the internet’, ‘can be considered’; his mistakes do not obscure meaning and
sometimes come when attempting quite difficult language ‘unappropriate’. He uses discourse
markers and cohesive devices well too: ‘However’ and ‘That’s true’.
Amelie – no short commentary, refer to the PDF
Blandine – criterial B2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-theo-blandine-internet
Blandine is a perfect example of B2. The discussion is about the quite demanding subject of
internet safety and Blandine talks quite fluently and accurately, having sufficient linguistic range
to deal with the subject well. She pauses while searching for language, but these don’t cause
strain, but her partner has to help her with the word ‘virus’. Her grammatical control and range of
vocabulary is B2: eg ‘it’s useful to do research on countries’; ‘start all over again’, ‘with
moderation’, despite some mistakes: ‘many time’; these, however, do not interfere with what she
wants to say. She organises her discourse well: eg ‘Yeah, sure’ and initiates appropriately:
‘What about you’; here initiation and contribution connected with chatting online is spontaneous
and strong.
Paul - strong B2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-paul-charlotte-the-ideal-partner
Paul talks slowly, but quite fluently, about the abstract subject of ‘the ideal partner’. There is no
strain listening to him and he has a good degree of control of grammar: eg ‘If she was good
looking, it wouldn’t be bad’. He produces stretches of coherent language eg: ‘first of all’ at an
even tempo and interacts well developing the interaction by initiating, following up and turn
taking appropriately in the second half of the discussion.
Sylvia – no short commentary, refer to the PDF
Charlotte – exemplar strong B2
[Link]
spoken-performances-illustrating-the-6-levels-of-the-common-european-framework-of-
reference-for/english-paul-charlotte-the-ideal-partner
Charlotte talks slowly, but quite fluently, about the abstract subject of ‘the ideal partner’. There is
no strain listening to her and she has a good degree of control of grammar and a range or
suitable vocabulary: eg ‘He has to be interested in… things, not only, like, sports and music’. He
produces stretches of coherent language and uses linkers and cohesive devices eg: ‘but
actually’ at an even tempo and interacts well developing the interaction by initiating, following up
and turn taking appropriately in the second half of the discussion.
Alizee, Marie, Annabelle and Xavier: no short commentaries, refer to PDF.
Rating writing
Lower Ed
Read the writing scripts from Malaysian students. Decide on the level and check with the
commentary.
Script 1
Jane
Yesterday I bought a black and white colour cloth and a green colour cloth. I bought them for
my tennis lesson next weekend. Each of them cost £25.
Commentary
This is strong A1, there is more than limited control: eg ‘I bought them for my tennis lesson next
weekend’ and the vocab is appropriate despite the sometimes impeding mistakes: eg ‘a green
colour cloth’
Script 2
Dear Jools,
I go to a music club at Elm street, Penang.
I go there at Friday.
I play musical instrument there.
From:
Commentary
This fits well as Solid A1 in that is simply 3 sentences using only the most limited grammar and
a very basic vocabulary. The sentences are connected using ‘there’ as a substitute for the
music club, but they are still quite isolated.
Script 3
I bought the clothes yesterday, the clothes are very beautiful and colourful, I love it. And the cost
is only £3 for each. I also buy one beautiful T-shirt for you.
From
Commentary
This fits into weak B2 well: it meets the descriptor for short and simple, but only just. There is
basic connection ‘and’ and ‘also’. The grammar and vocab are basic, but still do what is required
but no more. There are basic mistakes, but the limited information is still conveyed.
Script 4
Kim:
Hi! How are you? Yesterday I went to shopping. I bought a new shirt and trousers. I bought
them because it is nice and beauty. I bought thoses for just £10.
Love
Commentary
This is solid B2: the information is conveyed clearly and the tone and style is appropriate: eg ‘Hi!
How are you?’ The grammar and vocab are still weak, but there is some control and cohesion:
eg ‘I bought them because…’
Script 5
Dear,
Hi! How are you? I hope you are fine.
Yesterday, I went shopping to Mid Valley. I had bought a dress because I'm going to a party. I
also bought a necklace to suit my dress. They cost about £60.
Write to me soon. Take care.
Lots of Love,
Commentary
This is strong A2 – it is a simple letter, but accurate, with a good register and tone. There is
linking of ideas, eg: ‘because I'm going to a party’, and organisation into paragraphs. The
language is more than sufficient: eg ‘I also bought a necklace to suit my dress.’
Script 6
Hi Jools,
How are you? I am writting about the music club. The music club address - it's 30 Jason
Road, it near my uncle house. The music club start at this Friday, I when to there to
listen some rock music and looking for some bans.
If you have times, please reply me.
Commentary
This is weak A2, the message of the note is quite clear, there is some organisation in
paragraphs, but the sentences aren’t linked. There are mistakes and at times the reader
must work a little to understand: eg ‘I when to there to listen some rock music and
looking for some bans.’, but overall it is still clear.
Script 7
Dear Jools,
The World Grand music club that I just went last Saturday in Hawaii was awesome. The food
and drinks there was perfect. I dance there with some of my friends all night long.
Your best friend,
Commentary
This is solid A2, the message is clear and the tone and register suitable. The organisation is
acceptable in that there is ‘Dear Jools’ and ‘Your best friend.’ What stops it from being strong A2
is the lack of connection between the sentences. The grammar is sufficient: eg ‘The food and
drinks there was perfect.’ Even though there are mistakes, the writer’s intent is still clear. The
vocabulary is controlled in the context: eg ‘awesome’.
Script 8
To: Jools
The music club is held in my school, SMJK Kwang Hua. It is every Saturday, 2.30p.m. to
4.30p.m. I go there to learn different kinds of music instrument such as drums, guitars and
more.
Commentary
This fits into strong A2 for a number of reasons: the organisation is clear and sophisticated for
this level: the sentences are linked using the pronoun ‘it’ and there is also ‘I go there to learn’. In
addition the vocabulary is also more than sufficient: eg ‘different kinds of music instrument such
as drums, guitars.’
Script 9
Hello, yesterday I went shopping to bought some new T-shirts. I bought them because they
were attractive and colourful. The cost of the T-shirts were RM59.00.
Please write to me soon.
Commentary
Although quite short, this fits into B1 weak in that the ideas and sentences are linked: eg ‘I
bought them’ into a sequence as the B1 criteria says. The control of grammar is sufficient
despite mistakes eg: ‘yesterday I went shopping to bought’ and there is good control of
elementary vocabulary: eg ‘attractive and colourful’.
Script 10
Dear ...,
How are you? Hope your family members are in the pink of health. I received your letter
yesterday. I think you should go on holiday with your parents. It is because they are usually very
busy working every day and this is the only chance they can relax themselves. They must be
very hopefully to accompany their children to enjoy the holidays. If you go on holiday with them.
You will make them happier and there are lots of activities for family. Well, if you really want to
go out with your friends, you must arrange your time wisely. I think you can go shopping or go
for a picnic with your best friends. I have to stop here now because it is very late now. Hope to
hear from you soon.
Bye!
Yours sincerely,
Commentary
This fits well into the middle of B1: it is a straightforward text on a concrete topic and the
candidate gets her point across – this is the most important aspect. There are problems: eg the
lack of paragraphing stops it scoring higher, the sentences aren’t connected particularly well
and the tone is slightly uneven: eg ‘Bye!’ followed by ‘Yours sincerely’. There is some control of
vocab; eg ‘lots of activities for family’. The grammar is actually very good.
Script 11
Dear ...,
How are you recently? I hope you and your family are in the pink. I had received your letter two
days ago. So, I will give some opinions for you in this letter.
I think you should go on your summer holiday with your lovely parents. It is an opportunity for
you to accompany with your parents. As we know, your parents are businessman so they will
not have a lot of time to go on holiday with them. That is why you should go with them. Besides
that, if you go on holiday with your parents, your relationship with them will be getting more
closer. Is this true? In addition, if you go on holiday with your parents, they will take good care of
you. So, you will be more safety and you can do a lot of activities with your parents. They will
make sure you would not be dangerous when doing some activities. Moreover, if you go on
holiday with your parents, it will be a memory for all of you. You can take a photograph with your
parents during your holiday trip. Is it a good idea for you?
I hope you will have a happy holiday.
From
Commentary
This is a strong B1 answer: all the information and ideas are conveyed clearly. The paragraph
organisation is clear and within paragraphs the cohesion is very much in line with the B1 CEFR
criteria: ‘a connected series of linear points’ is achieved naturally using some range of devices:
eg ‘That is why’, ‘Besides that’. The; register and tone are very effective and grammar and
vocabulary are good: eg ‘if you go on holiday with your parents, your relationship with them will
be getting more closer’; the mistakes in no way impede the meaning: eg ‘you will be more
safety.’
Script 12
Dear Alice,
Hi. How are you? I am going to tell you something unexpected. A TV company came to my
school yesterday to make a film. All students in the school are very surprised and excited about
it.
I think that the TV company chose my school is because there are beautiful scenery . The TV
company filmed our principal and ask him some question about my school. The TV company
told us that the programme will be shown on television next month. I am look forward to enjoy it.
Take Care.
Commentary
This is a good example of solid B1 – the task of the letter is simple and the writer achieves her
aim. There is organisation into paragraphs. Within the paragraphs the cohesion is less effective
– in the first paragraph the final two sentences could be linked. However, the grammar is
accurate; eg ‘The TV company told us that the programme will be shown on television next
month’; there are slips, but the message is still clear. The vocabulary is sufficient: eg ‘surprised
and excited’
Script 13
To Alice
How are you recently? I hope you are in the pink. A TV company came to my school yesterday
to make a film with the title of 'My School'. All students in my school were very excited and
happy. The TV company chose my school to make a film because my school is large and it has
fifty classrooms there. Besides that, my school has a very beautiful garden with a variety of
flowers. My school also has many facilities such as library, canteen, laboratory, computer rooms
and others. The TV company filmed a main character, Jusline Tan who was studied in my
school and she was sitting for an examination at that time. It is an interesting film and the
programme will be shown on television on next month. I think you will like to watch the film too.
Bye.
From
Commentary
This is a stronger B1, but still in the band: there is organisation: ‘Besides that’, but the text could
be split into paragraphs and the candidate uses ‘TV company too much’. The text is strong in
terms of the tone as well as the grammar: eg ‘she was sitting for an examination at that time’
and vocabulary: eg : facilities such as library, canteen, laboratory, computer rooms. There are
slips, but these don’t obscure the meaning.
Script 14
To Chris,
How are you? I hope you are in the pink of health when I visit you this weekend. Even though
just by reading your letter, I feel excited about the plan of yours. About the Science Festival, my
answer - yes, of course! Just think about doing experiments and exploring newly found
specimens, it is fun.
As you know, I hate talks but I'm curious about one of the topic that you had listed for me so I
choose 'Can Animal speak?'. By the way, can I know is there anything I need to bring along and
do I need to pay for the talk. If yes, please state the amount.
About your suggestion to stay longer, I am sorry that I might dissappoint you. After all the
consideration - my tuition, school assignments, I can't stay longer due to my time limits. I'm
really sorry. Hope to see you soon.
Love,
Commentary
This is a good example of a weaker B2 script. The most important feature which puts it into B2
is that the letter succeeds in doing what it is supposed to do – at the end the reader will know all
the information required. The student coveys their ideas adequately and in the correct register.
The text is organised into paragraphs and there are organisers like: eg ‘As you know’. The
grammar is sufficient and there is some good vocabulary: eg ‘specimens’. There are quite a lot
of mistakes, these are very noticeable, but don’t impede meaning.
Script 15
Dear Chris,
Hi! How are you? I have received your letter and I am also looking forward to staying with you
for the weekend.
In your letter, you mentioned about a Science Festival in your city that weekend. I would love to
go to the festival as Science happens to be one of my favourite subject.
Besides , you also mentioned regarding choosing one of the these talks: 'Can Animals Speak?'
and 'The Power of the Sun'. Well, I would prefer the talk about 'The Power of the Sun' because
since young, I am always fascinated about the Sun and this can be a chance for me to learn
more about it.
Moreover, I would be grateful if you could tell me whether the festival has exhibition about our
Solar System?
Lastly, I am sad to say that I would not be able to stay with you for a bit longer. This is because
my family will be going on a holiday to Paris after staying with you.
Well, I am going to pen off now. I hope you could reply me soon.
Your friend,
Commentary
This is a solid B2. The letter achieves its purpose, the writer expresses him or herself clearly
and the tone is very good: ‘Hi! How are you?’, although the ‘moreover’ at the end is slightly too
formal. The paragraphs are clear with discourse markers: eg ‘Lastly’. The language used fits
well in the B2 band and there is good control: eg ‘This is because my family will be going on a
holiday to Paris after staying with you.’ The vocab is also good in the context: eg ‘fascinated’.
Script 16
Hi Chris! I've been waiting for you to write back to me. I have received your letter and I am
looking forward to meet you this weekend. About the Science Festival you've mentioned earlier,
I think that it would be fantastic for the two of us to attend the festival. It would be great fun,
wouldn't it?
It is very good that the Festival Programme organises talks because it is an engaging way to
communicate with the people. I would love to attend the "Can Animal Speak?" talk show
because the topic is very close to my heart, animals. Would that be fine to you?
Since I am very passionate about plants, do you think that there is a talk on plants during the
Science Festival? If there is, would you be kind enough to join with me to attend the talk? If you
don't mind.
I love would love to stay with you a big longer but I can't. I have to attend a meeting the
following day. But do come and visit me here. I would appreciate it.
Best wishes,
Commentary
This is strong B2. On finishing the letter we know exactly what is required and we have all the
information we need. The emotions are conveyed well with vocabulary: eg ‘Close to my heart’
‘passionate’, the tone is consistently correct. The organisation is very clear with paragraphs and
sentences linked naturally: eg ‘If there is,…’. The grammar is well controlled: eg ‘I've been
waiting for you to write back to me’.
Script 17
Recently, there's a new thriller named "Twilight", it was the most unforgettable thriller that I ever
saw. The story was very interesting and creative, it was talking about a girl fell in love with a
vampire. At first, she does not know he is a vampire, she just felt that he is kind of strange and
weird because his face is very pale all the time, he never appear at outdoor in a sunny day and
his hand is cold.
After she knew he is a vampire, she has already fell in love with him. She is even willing to let
him to suck her blood, but of course he refused to do so even he is crave for it. He tried very
hard to control his desire to suck her blood and is willing to sacrifice his life to protect the girl
from intrusion and attack of other vampires. Their love touches me, I cried while I was watching
this part.
Their 'unusual' love and the mystery ending sure will attract a lot of people's attention.
Commentary
This answer just comes into the B2 band and is a good example of weak B2. The reader is
informed and we know how the reader feels about the film. There is organisation, but it is
uneven and the final paragraph should be longer. There is some good vocabulary: eg’
unforgettable’ and ‘suck her blood’ and this compensates for the frequent grammatical lapses.
The important point about these lapses is that they don’t impede the meaning.
Script 18
The thriller move that I had recently watched is called Spiderman 3. I find this movie exciting
because the hero, Peter Parker or Spiderman has recently discovered the true murderer who
murdered his uncle, Ben Parker. He wanted to take revenge of his uncle's death and one night,
a black substance crawled all over his body and gave him a new suit, which is black in colour.
Besides giving him a new suit, the substance also changes his attitude, turning him into a bad
boy. Now, he has to overcome the evil inside him and rescue his girlfriend, M.J and defeating
the Venom and the Sandman with the help of his friend, Harry or New Goblin.
I think other people would like it because this movie teaches us that the evil part inside us can
consume us, making us do bad things. So we need to get rid of our evil thoughts and desires in
order not to commit crimes. Apart from that, the movie also has scenes that are so thrilling that
you would not be able to move about. Moreover, the sound effects of the movie is very realistic.
I would recommend this movie to everyone who enjoys watching adventures and thriller movie.
Commentary
This is a solid B2 – the task is achieved and the write conveys their feelings well using good
vocabulary: eg ‘to take revenge’. The organisation is clear; the first paragraph tells the story, the
second talks about the effect on others in quite a sophisticated way: eg ‘this movie teaches us
that the evil part inside us can consume us, making us do bad things’. The register is consistent
and there are a few slips with grammar, but these do not impede meaning; eg ‘the sound effects
of the movie is…’.
Script 19
What is friendship? Friendship is a bond that is shared between a group of people that enjoy
being together. Friends do things together and enjoy each others's company. You can be
friends with anyone, as long as you do not hate them.
Now that we are done with that, we shall now discuss about ways to make friends. Some people
make friends easily. It is due to the fact that they can easily strike up a conversation. To me,
that is the only way to make friends. Comunication. Be brave and ask the first question, or just
say 'Hi'.
As much as friends want to agree with each other on everything, they can not. Everyone as an
individual have different behaviors, preferences and opinions. It is natural to sometimes
disagree on something. This allows us to break out of a routine every once in a while.
Friendship is very valuable bond. Life would be boring if we just keep to ourselves. Enjoy
spending time with your friends while you make new ones. However, do not forget your old
friends.
Commentary
This is an example of very strong B2. The writer expresses him or herself very effectively and
the tone is very consistent. The organisation is very clear too; the paragraphs work well and
within paragraphs the organisation is sophisticated: The language is very good, both in terms of
control of grammar: eg ‘As much as friends want to agree with each other on everything, they
can not.’ and vocabulary: eg ‘strike up a conversation’. There are one or two mistakes, but these
are very much slips and in no way impede meaning; eg ‘Life would be boring if we just keep to
ourselves’ – strictly speaking this should be ‘kept’.
Rating writing
Primary
Script 1
At 1:15 pm We will meet at my house. We will go to the sports centre to play tennis. Yuo must
wear sport shirt to play tennis.
Commentary
This is A2 as the text reads as simple isolated phrases as in the description of the criteria.
However, the message is clear. There is basic vocabulary: eg ‘play tennis’ and there is a limited
control of grammar: eg the use of ‘will’ is inappropriate. However, it is strong as there is the
sentence ‘Yuo must wear sport shirt to play tennis’ which is more complicated, despite the
spelling problem.
Script 2
Dear Sarah,
you should meet me at 2.30 p.m. My father will fatch we to the destination .You need to wear a
set of sportwear only.
Just from,
Commentary
This just qualifies as A2. The sentences are not linked, but the information is conveyed
effectively and at the end of reading we know exactly what we have to do. In terms of
vocabulary and grammar there are 3 verbs used correctly: should, will and need as well as a
narrow control of other words: fatch, a set of sportwear. The mistakes are basic, but it is clear
what the writer is trying to say.
Script 3
Dear Sarah,
You can meet me at 5:30 p.m. and we can take a bus to the sports centre. You need to wear
long trouser and white shirt.
Yours
Commentary
This is solid A2 as all the information is conveyed clearly. The descriptor says that ‘cohesion
can be achieved with simple connectors like ‘and’ and this is the case here. The grammar is
simple and mostly accurate – the second can is better that the first one, which might be better
as ‘should’ or ‘Let’s’. The vocabulary is sufficient too: eg ‘wear long trouser and white shirt.’
Script 4
I'm glad that you will come with me. You can meet me at my house at 6 pm and my father will
get us to the sport centre. You can wear a T-shirt and a short.
Commentary
This is strong A2 because of the positive effect on the reader: I'm glad that you will come with
me, and the quality of the language used. Although the sentences aren’t linked, there is some
flow. In terms of grammar and vocabulary there is control: eg ‘You can meet me at my house’.
The mistakes are minor and don’t obscure the message.
Script 5
How are you? I'm fine. Today it's a good holiday job in Paris. I'm work at Salesbury which is my
company place. This place is the best when I work here. First, I have to relaxs and finish all my
documents on my table. I also a big bos in my job. The time it starts at 9:00 a.m- 5:00 p.m. I
usually came at 8:30 a.m. Every Tuesday, I had a meeting with my clients. I think this email its
enough to you.
Commentary
Although quite long compared to the other texts, this is weak A2. There is organisation; eg ‘First’
and by the end we more or less know what the writer wants to convey. However, the control of
grammar is barely sufficient and this is important at A2; eg ‘Today it's a good holiday job in
Paris’. And the tenses are consistently mixed up. The vocabulary is better, but still only just
sufficient.
Script 6
Dear Nino,
How are you? I'm working in a reastaurant. I just have to order, and clean the table. My busy
time is 8.00a.m to 12.00 p.m. Are you intresting to do? Now you just have to meet the manager
and you can work another day. Oh! My sister is crying. I have to go now, bye.
Love,
Commentary
This is solid A2: the information, though simple, is clearly conveyed in organised sentences: eg
‘and’. The control of grammar is sufficient: eg ‘I'm working in a reastaurant’, and the mistakes do
not seriously obscure the meaning, but we do have to stop to work out that the person writing is
trying to encourage the reader to apply for a job.
Script 7
Dear Nino,
I do have a holiday job. I am working at that old store near your house. I am the cashier so I just
have to use cash register. I usually start at 9.00 a.m. but on Saturdays and Sundays I start at
10.00 a.m.
Yours truly,
Commentary
This is strong A2: the letter conveys all the information accurately and the tone is consistently
informal and friendly. There is organisation: eg ‘so’ and ‘but’ and the grammar is more than
sufficient: eg: ‘I am working at that old store near your house.’ as is the vocabulary: eg: cash
register.
Script 8
Hi Alex,
How are you? I just came back from a shopping mall. I bought some new clothes. I bought the
clothes at a shop in the shopping mall. The clothes there are very nice, while the price is not too
expensive. I bought this clothes because I am going to attend a wedding tomorrow. Besides
that, there is a party next Monday. I can wear the clothes there.
Love
Commentary
The criteria say that B1 can write straightforward sentences on a range of familiar subjects and
this is a good illustration. The grammar is solid and there’s a range of vocabulary: eg ‘I am going
to attend a wedding tomorrow’. There is some cohesion; eg “besides that’, but the first 4
sentences need connectors and this pushes into the weak range as it makes is sound a little
unnatural.
Script 9
Hi Alex!
I've just bought some new clothes. I bought five red T-shirts and two jeans. I bought the clothes
from a shopping centre called Jusco. It is near Chinese New Year so I bought them.
See you at school next week. Bye!
Commentary
This is solid B1 and the effect on the reader is positive. The information is coveyed clearly and
effectively, the tone and register are good; eg ‘See you at school next week. Bye!’ Again, the
first sentences could be linked better, but the accurate grammar ‘I've just bought some new
clothes’ and vocab raise the level.
Script 10
Hi Alex, how are you? I've just bought a pink shirt with a black skirt at Pink's. I've bought these
clothes to wear at Karen's birthday. Karen said the theme is casual. Hope you write back soon!
See you there!
Commentary
This is strong B1; the tome is consistently informal and appropriate and the paragraph flows
well, although there is repetition of ‘Karen’. Despite this there is organisation and good
vocabulary: eg ‘the theme is casual’ as well as consistently controlled grammar: eg ‘I've bought
these clothes to wear at Karen's birthday.’
Script 11
Dear Angle:
I am glad that you are fine. I live in a quiet street. The place I live doesn't have many cars, most
of the people go to work by public bus. There are also some students cycle to school. The place
I live is a clean and peace place, because there aren't any market near my house. The people
there are also very friendly, my friends and I always walk to the park without parents
accompany.
But sometimes there are some people shouting around . If I am able to move, I would like to
move to a street near my best friend house because the place I live is very far to my her house.
I need to cycle for a long distane to her house.
Commentary
This is weak B1: the simple information is conveyed clearly. The organisation is at the level:
there are paragraphs, but the linking between sentences could be better; there is repetition; eg
‘The place I live’. The grammar is quite accurate and the vocabulary sufficient, but there are
mistakes when more difficult structures are attempted: eg ‘If I am able to move, I would like to
move to a street near my best friend house’ as well as vocabulary slips with more demanding
words: eg ‘accompany’.
Script 12
Dear Sharon,
I live in a peaceful enviroment, my house is opposite a park, and there are many trees and
flowers. It is never noisy, unless there is a party.
It is also a happy living place because there are a lot of friendly neighbours. If I were able to
move, I would like to live in a place like my house now.
I don't like noisy places, so the place I hope to move to will be near a village and a big field
behind my house.
Tell me more about where you live, and if you are able to move, where would it be, in your next
letter.
Reply soon.
Love,
Commentary
This is solid B1: the effect of the appropriate tone and good organisation on the reader is
positive and the information is conveyed in good order. The control of the grammar is good with
basic tenses used well, while some of the grammar is very good: eg ‘It is never noisy, unless
there is a party.’ The range of the vocab keeps it below the strong range, but the rest is very
good.
Script 13
Dear David,
Hi, how is you and your family? I'm fine here. I live in a street called Taman Ampany. My street
isn't that busy, there aren't many cars there either. All the people in my street are friendly and
kind. There is also a field where you can exersice and play there. Besides that, there is a coffee
shop behind my house. If I'm hungry I can just walk to the shop and buy something to eat.
If I was able to move, I would move to Taman Soony Choon, because it is closer to my relatives.
So I can visit my relatives regulary and because the enviroment there is also quite peaceful.
I hope to be hearing from you again. Bye!
Lots of love,
Commentary
This is strong B1; all the information, though simple, is conveyed well and the effect on the
resder from the good organisation and tone is positive. There are paragraphs and good linking
between sentences: eg ‘either’ or ‘Besides that’. The range of vocabulary is more than sufficient:
eg ‘peaceful’ as is the grammar; eg ‘If I'm hungry I can just walk to the shop and buy something
to eat.’
Script 14
To Alex,
Hi Alex, I've just bought some new clothes that are jeans, t-shirts, and long-sleeve shirts from
the Body Glove shop near my house last week. I really needed some new clothes for Christmas
because the colour of almost all my clothes are fading. The shop is having a 30 per cent
discount now. So you better buy some clothes while the discount lasts!
From
Commentary
This is weak B2, the information is conveyed very effectively. The tone and register are good
and the organisation is clear and there are connectors ‘So’. The vocabulary has a good range:
eg ‘fading’ and the grammar is accurate; eg ‘I’ve bought some new clothes’ and ‘while the
discount lasts!
Script 15
Dear Alex,
Hi Alex. Long time no see. Sorry for the late reply. The reason is because I bought new clothes.
I bought three pair of jeans which were extremely cheap! And I got them from Carrefour, the
shopping mall near my house. I had to buy those jeans because my old ones were toe small for
me.
Yours sincerely,
Commentary
This is solid B2 despite the short length, which was required by the question. The tone is good
‘Hi Alex. Long time no see’ and the ideas flow effectively. The organisation of the text is clear;
the control of the grammar is good: eg ‘I had to buy those jeans because my old ones were toe
small for me’. There are slips but these in no way impede the flow of information.
Script 16
Dear Alex,
I just bought some new clothes yesterday. Well, a lot actually. I bought a black colored long
sleeve blouse, a black and grey skit, a big black, pointy hat, a pair of black stockings, a pair of
big black boots and a fishing net.
Now you must be wondering why everything I bought was in black right? Well, I am attending a
Hallooween party next week, and I am going to go dressed up as a witch! Can you believe it, I
bought everything at Queensway! I got to go get ready now, bye!
Love,
Commentary
This is just strong B2. The chatty informal tone is very effective and the information is ordered
very well into clear paragraphs: eg staring the second paragraph with ‘Now you must be
wondering why everything I bought was in black right?’ is very skilful cohesion as well as good
grammar and vocabulary. ‘To go dressed up as a witch’, pointy hat’ all mean it is strong B2
lexical accuracy and range.
Script 17
Hi Frank,
How are you? I'm fine here. I recieved your letter two days ago.
I feel sorry for you because you're living in a busy street which I don't. The street near my house
isn't busy because I live near the countryside.
As you know, all things have pros and cons. Sometimes in the street near my house, an
accident will happen. Since the street near my house is narrow, it takes a very long time for the
street to clear. Besides all the things that I've said, I feel it difficult for me and my family to get
the internet signal, for I live near the countryside.
In your letter you asked me that if I were able to move, where would I like to live? Well, what
you've asked is really happening. Me and my family are going to move into a city next month. I
think I like to live in the city better than near the countryside, for the house there is big, and mine
is small. Besides, its easier to get the internet signal there. I'll tell you my new address.
Goodbye for now. Reply soon.
Yours
Commentary
This just fulfils the B2 criteria: there is organisation into paragraphs and these are linked
effectively: eg ‘As you know’ and ‘Besides all the things that I've said’. The write coveys the
information in a detailed way, the grammar is controlled; eg ‘Since the street near my house is
narrow, it takes a very long time for the street to clear’ and the vocabulary is varied: eg ‘to get
the internet signal there’
Script 18
Hi, good to here from you again. I live in a very busy street too! Loads of cars pass by my house
everyday. There's a park near my house too, but it's always very crowded! If I would be able to
move, I would move to Greece. We would stay in the countryside in a peaceful little cottage. I
like the countryside very much because it's very quiet and peaceful. I would certainly miss the
electronics and gadgets I used to play on-line games on, but I could enjoy many other things,
such as horseback riding, reading in peace, gardening and canoeing. I would enjoy what Mother
Nature created, the rivers are really clean and when I wake up I would be able to smell the
moutain breeze. We would go hiking, cycling, collecting berries and camping in the woods.
Imagine how fun would that be! If you were able to move where would you live? Hope you write
back soon!
From:
Commentary
This is solid B2. The language level is high, especially the vocabulary: eg ‘collecting berries’,
and the grammar is controlled: eg ‘If you were able to move where would you live?’. However,
what pulls it down a little is the organisation: there are obviously no paragraphs and the
sentences all seem to begin with ‘I’ making it a little repetitive.
Script 19
Dear Cheryl,
How is the weather in England?
Where I live is the opposite of your area, its a quiet neighbourhood. In the neighbourhood where
I live, there are a lot of trees as the neighbours are very environmentally friendly. It's very windy
here and there is also a park where I would usually walk my dog.
Besides that, there are some shops where I live so its also very convenient if I need anything.
There are also a lot of houses here in my area but its very serene and peaceful. I like it here a
lot.
If I could move to wherever I wanted to, I would choose the beachside. Just imagine waking up
to the sound of the sea. Maybe the countryside would also be a good option. To get away from
the city would be nice.
What do you think? Where would you like to live? Please write back.
With love,
Commentary
This is towards the strong end of B2; the organisation into paragraphs is clear and logical and
there are linkers and cohesive devices: eg ‘Besides that’. The tone is very good: eg ‘Just
imagine waking up to the sound of the sea.’ The vocabulary range is good and mostly accurate:
eg ‘convenient’.