Careers

Second language proficiency (SLP) levels

The following descriptions provide examples of performance characteristics associated with each SLP (Second Language Proficiency) level.

In the context of work an employee at

• is unable to understand or say anything in the second language

• is sometimes able to understand isolated words or a few simple sentences spoken very slowly

• can produce single words, short sentences or commonly used expressions with considerable difficulty; does not understand basic grammar rules

• demonstrates a very limited ability to communicate; the message is extremely difficult or impossible to grasp

• is able to understand simple sentences, although repetition/rephrasing is often necessary

• is capable of answering/asking simple questions and maintaining brief conversations when the subject matter is familiar; has partial mastery of basic grammar rules

• demonstrates limited ability to communicate; the message contains a large number of errors and is often difficult to grasp

• is able to follow simple, moderately-paced conversation

• uses basic grammar proficiently

• is beginning to communicate with some confidence in specific contexts, despite frequent errors and hesitation

• is able to follow conversations delivered at a natural pace which involve a broader range of topics

• speaks with a greater degree of accuracy, using a wider range of grammatical elements, although lexical and grammatical training is still needed to handle complex situations

• can converse with a fair degree of confidence; although there may be hesitations or errors, the message can be understood most of the time

• is able to follow conversations delivered at a natural or even rapid rate regardless of the situation

• communicates clearly, using complex sentences with a good degree of accuracy; errors rarely interfere with communication

• speaks with confidence and spontaneity

• follows all conversations and grasps nuances, regardless of the subject area or complexity

• is able to discuss a broad variety of topics with accuracy and ease, using complex structures and precise terms to do so

• maintains consistent fluency over time, even in situations involving unexpected developments

Note: The Bank's SLP levels can be compared with those of the Federal Government: