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The following descriptions provide examples of performance characteristics associated with each SLP (Second Language Proficiency) level.
In the context of work an employee at
Level 0 (True Beginner - SLP)
is unable to understand or say anything in the second language
Level 1 (Beginner - SLP)
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
Level 2 (Advanced Beginner - SLP)
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
Level 3 (Intermediate - SLP)
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
Level 4 (Functional- SLP)
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
Level 5 (Fully functional - SLP)
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
Level 6 (Near-native bilingualism - SLP)
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:
Federal Government | Similar Bank level |
Level A | Level 3 |
Level B | Level 4 |
Level C | Level 5 |