Language Exams

Knowing another language is practically essential these days. It is necessary in countless fields, but many times the knowledge itself is not enough; you need proof that you possess an adequate knowledge of the language. You need to pass a language exam.

 

The Coventry House Language School
has the following language exam opportunities:

  • TELC
  • BME
  • Goethe
  • Lexinfo

Let's look at why it is worth taking a language exam!

  • You get extra points towards your university application.
  • It is necessary to get a degree.
  • It is an advantage with employers.
  • You can get an extra bonus on top of your salary.
  • It is proof that you really do have a good knowledge of the language.
  • It gives you a sense of achievement.
  • It motivates you to study a language.
  • It keeps you young and fresh, even in old age.

 

What do I need to know for each exam level?

B1 - INTERMEDIATE

The B1 level is a threshold, and it has two main criteria. The first is the ability to maintain a conversation and get your message across in the most varied of contexts, as well as understanding the main gist of conversations happening around you. The other characteristic group of abilities attributed to the B1 level is the ability and flexibility to cope with every day problems, e.g. using public transport in an unfamiliar place, handling situations that occur when making travel arrangements at a travel agency or during one's travel, and being able to converse about familiar topics without advanced preparation.

 

B2 - UPPER INTERMEDIATE

A student who possesses knowledge of a language to an upper intermediate level can understand the gist of more complicated themes: both concrete and abstract. They can maintain a normal conversation in a continuous and natural manner, so that the other speaker is not burdened. They can write clear and detailed texts about various topics and can express their opinion about contemporary issues, being able to detail the pros and cons of the different positions.

 

C1 - ADVANCED

The C1 level carries the advanced designation. The broad knowledge that characterizes this level makes it possible to communicate spontaneously and continuously. The language learner can fluidly and naturally express themself without any effort. They have a wide vocabulary, with the help of which they can easily paraphrase to make up for the gaps in their knowledge. They rarely search for words and use a strategy of evasion; only conceptually difficult themes hinder their natural and fluent use of the language. The emphasis is on fluency of speech. Their speech is clear, fluid, and well constructed, which shows they have mastered the organizational and connective tools of cohesion.

 

However, there are several common misconceptions about language exams. For example the following:

Certain language exams are easier. The success of a language exam always depends on the preparedness and personality of the individual. As we are not all identical, there are types of tasks that prove very difficult for one person, while another person can easily handle it and vice versa. Because of this, it is not possible to categorize types of language exams as easy or difficult. Each type is different and our goal should be to find out, which one suits us the best.

Language exams are for young people. This is not the case either. Middle-aged and elderly people can take language exams and be just as successful as younger people. There is no upper age limit for people learning languages or taking language exams.

Language exams prove your knowledge forever. Unfortunately, this is not true. Passing a language exam is only the beginning. After that, we still need to continually study the language and develop our knowledge; otherwise our language exam certificate will become just a meaningless piece of paper.