Extracted from Circular 01/2014/TT-BGDT stipulated by MOET on 24

January 2014

III. The relative compatibilty between CEFR and the Vietnamese

Framework of Reference for Foreign Language Competence (KNLNNVN)
KNLNNVN is developed based on referencing and applying CEFR and some
countries frameworks of reference for the English language, combined with the
current teaching, learning and using foreign languages in Vietnam. Divided into 3
levels (Basic, Intermediate and Advanced) and 6 sub-levels (from Level 1 to
Level 6, corresponding to level A1 to C2 in CEFR), KNLNNVN is as follows:
KNLNNVN CEFR
Basic Level 1 A1
Level 2 A2
Intermediate Level 3 B1
Level 4 B2
Advanced Level 5 C1
Level 6 C2

IV. Details of Vietnamese Framework for foreign languages competence

reference
1. Overall descriptor
Level Overall descriptor
Level 1
Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic
phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can
introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about
personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows and
things he/she has. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person
talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.
Basic

Level 2 Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas
of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family
information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate
in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of
information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms
aspects of his/her background, immediate environment and matters in
areas of immediate need.

Level 3 Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar
Inter
medi
ate

matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with
most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the
 language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics, which
are familiar, or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events,
dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for
opinions and plans.
Level 4 Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and
abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of
specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that
makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without
strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of
subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages
and disadvantages of various options.
Level 5 Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise
implicit meaning. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously
without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language
flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes.
Advanced

Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects,

showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and
cohesive devices.
Level 6 Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can
summarise information from different spoken and written sources,
reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can
express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely,
differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

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 2. Skill descriptor
2.1. Listening comprehension
2.1.1. Overall listening comprehension

Level Descriptor

Level 1 - Can follow speech that is very slow and carefully articulated, with long pauses for him/her to assimilate meaning.
- Can understand phrases and expressions related to areas of most immediate priority (e.g. very basic personal and
Level 2 family information, shopping, local geography, employment) provided speech is clearly and slowly articulated.
- Can understand main ideas of familiar everyday speech provided the speech is clearly and slowly articulated.
- Can understand straightforward factual information about common everyday or job related topics, provided speech is
Level 3 clearly articulated in a generally familiar accent.
- Can understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar matters regularly encountered in life, work and
school, including short narratives, provideded speech is clearly articulated in a generally familiar accent.
- Can understand standard spoken language, live or broadcast, on both familiar and unfamiliar topics normally
encountered in personal, social, academic or vocational life, provided the speech is clearly articulated in a generally
familiar accent.
Level 4 - Can understand the main ideas of propositionally and linguistically complex speech on both concrete and abstract
topics delivered in a standard dialect, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation.
- Can follow extended speech and complex lines of argument provided the topic is reasonably familiar, and the talk is
clearly strucutured.
- Can follow extended speech on complex and abstract topics even when it is not clearly structured and when
relationships are only implied and not signalled explicitly.
Level 5 - Can follow and understand animated conversations among native speakers
- Can follow and understand abstract arguments and propositions.
- Can understand the essentials of announcements on media.
- Can follow and understand technical lectures or presentations with a wide range of colloquialisms, sociolinguistic
Level 6 factors or unfamiliar terminology.
- Can understand finer, complex and controversial topics such as law and finance and can even reach the level of
 expertise.
- Can understand with ease everything delivered at native speakers speed.

2.1.2. Listening to interactions between native speakers or people involved in indirect communication

Level Descriptor

Level 1 - Can understand very short conversations and very simple structures delivered clearly and slowly on basic personal
information, school and immediate needs
Level 2 - Can generally identify the topic of discussion around him/her that is conducted slowly and clearly.
- Can generally understand the main points of extended discussion around him/her, provided speech is clearly
Level 3
articulated in standard dialect.
- Can with some effort catch much of what is said around him/her, but may find it difficult to participate effectively
Level 4 in discussion with several native speakers who do not modify their language in any way.
- Can keep up with an animated conversation between native speakers.
- Can follow and understand complex interactions between native speakers, even on abstract, complex and
Level 5
unfamiliar topics.
- Can follow and understand with ease complex conversations and interactions between native speakers in group
Level 6
discussions and debates, even on abstract, complex, unfamiliar and idiomatic topics
2.1.3. Listening to presentations and conversations

Level Descriptor

Level 1 - No descriptor available

Level 2 - No descriptor available
Level 3 - Can follow in outline straightforward short and simple talks on familiar topics provided these are delivered in

4
 clearly articulated standard speech.
- Can follow a lecture or talk within his/herown field or on familiar topics provided the presentation is
straightforward and clearly structured.
- Can follow the essentials of lectures, talks and narratives and other forms of academic/professional presentation
Level 4
which are propositionally and linguistically complex.
Level 5 - Can follow and understand most lectures, discussions and debates with relative ease.
-
Can follow specialised lectures and presentations employing a high degree of colloquialism and unfamiliar
Level 6 terminology.

2.1.4. Listening to announcements, instructions and directions

Level Descriptor

Level 1 - Can understand and follow short and simple directions addressed carefully and slowly to him/her.
- Can understand the essentials of short, simple, clear voice messages and announcements.
Level 2
- Can understand simple directions relating to how to get from X to Y, by foot or public transport.
- Can understand and follow simple technical information, such as operating informations for everyday equipment.
Level 3
- Can understand detailed directions, such as traffic directions
- Can understand announcements and messages on concrete and abstract topics spoken in standard dialect at normal
Level 4
speed.
- Can extract specific information from poor quality, audibly distorted public announcements e.g. in a train station,
Level 5 airport, and so on.
- Can understand complex technical information, such as operating instructions, specifications for familiar products
and services.
- Can understand every announcement and instruction delivered live or broadcast by media without any difficulties,
Level 6 even when the background is relatively noisy.

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 2.1.5. Listening to radio and TV audio and recordings

Level Descriptor

Level 1 - No descriptor available

Level 2 - Can identify the main points of radio and TV news on events, accidents and so on.
- Can understand the main ideas of radio news and visually illustrated news, interviews and documentaries delivered
clearly in simple speech.
Level 3 - Can extract the main ideas of radio and TV programs on familiar topics delivered relatively clearly and slowly.
- Can understand the majority of content of radio and TV programs on topics of personal interest, such as interviews,
short lectures and news delivered relatively clearly and slowly.
- Can understand most of radio and TV documentaries.
- Can identify the speakers mood and tone.
Level 4 - Can understand recorded and broadcast materials in standard dialects likely to be encountered in social,
occupational and academic life and identify the speakers viewpoints and attitudes as wel as the information
content.
- Can understand a wide range of recorded and broadcast radio and TV materials, including some non-standard
Level 5
usage, and identify finer points of detail including implicit attitudes and relationships between speakers.
Level 6 - Can enjoy all radio and TV programs without any effort.
2.2. Speaking descriptors
2.2.1. Overall monologue descriptor

Level Descriptor

Level 1 - Can produce and reply to simple statements related to very familiar topics such as personal information, family,
school, classroom or immediate everyday needs.
- Can communicate in a simple and direct manner about familiar everyday topics related to jobs and leisure.
Level 2 - Can express his/her viewpoints and ideas in simple and short communication situations, but cannot maintain
conversations yet.

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 - Can communicate with relative confidence familiar topics related to his/her interests, studies and jobs. Can
exchange, check and confirm information and explain arising problems. Can express thoughts on cultural topics
Level 3 such as movies, books, music, and so on.
- Can participate in conversations on familiar topics without much prepapration; express personal viewpoitns and
exchange information on familiar topics related to personal interests, studies, job and daily routines.
- Can communicate independently a wide range of topics; employ coherent structures and arguments, link
Level 4 presented ideas and use language fluently and accurately.
- Can present the personal significance of events and experiences, clearly account for and defense for his/her
viewpoints by providing relevant and concrete explanations and arguments.
Level 5 - Can express him/herself fluently, simultanenously, almost effortlessly. Has a good command of a broad lexical
repertoire allowing gaps to be readily overcome with circumlocutions
- Can convey finer shades of meaning precisely by using, with high accuracy, a wide range of modification
Level 6 devices.
- Has a good command of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms with awareness of connotative levels of
meaning. Can backtrack and restructure around a difficulty so smoothly that the interlocutor is hardly aware of it.
2.2.2. Sustained monologue: Describing experiences
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can describe a person; where he/she lives and what he/she does

- Can describe his/her family, living conditions, educational background, present or most recent job.
- Can describe everyday aspects of his/her environment e.g. people, places, a job or study experience.
Level 2
- Can describe plans and, habits and routines, past activities and personal experiences.
- Can explain in a simple manner what he/she likes or dislikes about something.

- Can give straightforward descriptions on familiar subjects within his field of interest.
Level 3 - Can give detailed accounts of personal experiences, the plot of a book, a movie and his/her feelings
- Can describe dreams, hopes and ambitions, real or imagined events.

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Level 4 - Can give clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of subjects related to his field of interest.
- Can give clear, detailed descriptions of complex subjects.
Level 5 - Can give elaborate descriptions and narratives, integrating sub themes, developing particular points and rounding
off with an appropriate conclusion.
Level 6 - Can give clear, elaborate, smoothly flowing, understandable and memorable descriptions.
2.2.3. Sustained monologue: Putting a case
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - No descriptor available
Level 2 - No descriptor available
- Can develop a clear argument, expanding and supporting his/her points of view at some length with subsidiary
points and relevant examples.
Level 3
- Can construct a chain of reasoned argument:
- Can explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
- Can develop an argument systematically with appropriate highlighting of significant points, and relevant
Level 4
supporting detail.
Level 5 - No descriptor available
Level 6 - No descriptor available
2.2.4. Sustained monologue: Addressing audiences

Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can read a very short, rehearsed statement - e.g. to introduce a speaker or propose a toast.
- Can give a short, rehearsed presentation on a topic pertinent to his everyday life; briefly give reasons and
explanations for opinions, plans and actions.
Level 2 - Can answer straightforward follow up questions if he/she can as for repetition and if some help with the
formulation of his reply is possible.

8
 - Can give a prepared straightforward presentation on a familiar topic within his/her field which is clear enough to be
Level 3 followed without difficulty and in which the main points are explained with reasonable precision.
- Can take follow up questions, but may have to ask for repetition if the speech was rapid.
- Can give a clear, prepared presentation, giving reasons in support of or against a particular point of view and
giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Level 4 - Can take a series of follow up questions with a degree of fluency and spontaneity which poses no strain for either
him/herself or the audience.
- Can give a complex presentation, with highlighting of significant points, and relevant supporting details.
- Can give a clear, well-structured presentation of a complex subject, expanding and supporting points of view at
Level 5 some length with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples.
- Can handle interjections well, responding spontaneously and almost effortlessly.
- Can present a complex topic confidently and articulately to an audience unfamiliar with it by structuring and
Level 6 adapting the talk flexibly to meet the audience's needs.

2.2.5. Overall spoken interaction descriptor

Level Descriptor

Level 1 Can interact in a simple way but communication is totally dependent on repetition at a slower rate of speech, rephrasing
and repair. Can ask and answer simple questions, initiate and respond to simple statements in areas of immediate need or
on very familiar topics.

Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and
Level 2 routine matters to do with work and free time but is rarely able to understand enough to keep conversation going of
his/her own accord.
Can communicate with ease by using short routine exchanges in specific situations without undue effort

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 - Can exploit a wide range of simple language to deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling.
- Can enter unprepared into conversation of familiar topics, express personal opinions and exchange information on
topics that are familiar, of personal interest or pertinent to everyday life.
Level 3 - Can communicate with some confidence on familiar routine and non-routine matters related to his/her interests or
professional field. Can exchange, check and confirm information, deal with less routine situations and solve
problems.
- Can express thoughts on more abstract, cultural topics such as films, and music.

- Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction, and sustained relationships
with native speakers quite possible without imposing strain on either party Can highlight the personal significance
of events and experiences, account for and sustain views clearly by providing relevant explanations and arguments.
Level 4 - Can use the language fluently, accurately and effectively on a wide range of general, academic, vocational or
leisure topics, marking clearly the relationships between ideas.
- Can communicate spontaneously with good grammatical control without any difficulties in appropriately
expressing him/herself.

- Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly. Has a good command of a broad lexical
Level 5 repertoire allowing gaps to be readily overcome with circumlocutions. There is no searching for expressions or
avoidance strategies
- Has a good command of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms with awareness of connotative levels of
Level 6 meaning. Can convey finer shades of meaning precisely by using, with reasonable accuracy, a wide range of
modification devices. Can backtrack and restructure around a difficulty so smoothly the interlocutor is hardly
aware of it.
2.2.6. Spoken interaction: Conversation
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can make an introduction and use basic greeting and leave-taking expressions.
- Can ask how people are and react to news.
- Can handle very short social exchanges but is rarely able to understand enough to keep conversation going of
Level 2
his/her own accord
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 - Can use simple everyday polite forms of greeting and address
- Can make and respond to invitations, invitations and apologies.
- Can say what he/she likes and dislikes.
- Can participate in short conversations in routine contexts on topics of interest,
- Can enter unprepared into conversations on familiar topics, but may sometimes have difficulties expressing exactly
what he/she would like to.
Level 3 - Can follow clearly articulated speech directed at him/her in everyday conversation, though will sometimes have to
ask for repetition of particular words and phrases.
- Can express and respond to feelings such as surprise, happiness, sadness, interest and indifference.

- Can engage in extended conversation on most general topics in a clearly participatory fashion, even in a noisy
environment.
Level 4
- Can maintain conversations with native speakers by means of jokes, tease and tricks.
- Can convey degrees of emotion and highlight the personal significance of events and experiences.
Level 5 - Can use language flexibly and effectively for social purposes, including emotional, allusive and joking usage.
- Can converse comfortably and appropriately, unhampered by any linguistic limitations in conducting a full social
Level 6
and personal life.
2.2.7. Spoken interaction: Transactions to obtain goods and services
Level Descriptor
Level 1 -
- Can conduct simple transactions to obtain goods and services
- Can handle numbers, quantities, cost and time.
- Can ask for and provide everyday goods and services such as ordering food.
- Can get basic information about goods and services in shops, post offices or banks
Level 2 - Can give and understand information related to quantities, numbers, prices for goods and servies.
- Can handle everyday situations when travelling such as accommodation, food and drinks and shopping.

Level 3 - Can deal with most transactions likely to arise whilst travelling, arranging trips such as making reservations and

11
 dealing with authorities during a foreign visit.
- Can cope with less routine situations in shops, post office, bank, e.g. returning an unsatisfactory purchase and
making a complaint.
- Can explain a problem which has arisen and make it clear that the provider of the service/customer must make a
concession.

- Can cope linguistically to negotiate a solution to a dispute like an undeserved traffic ticket, poor services, financial
responsibility for damage or responsibility in unsatisfactory goods and services. .
Level 4
- Can outline a case for compensation, using persuasive language to demand satisfaction and state clearly the limits
to any concession he/she is prepared to make.
Level 5 - - As above
Level 6 - - As above
2.2.8. Spoken interaction: Interviewing and being interviewed
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can reply in an interview to simple direct questions spoken very slowly and clearly in direct non-idiomatic speech
about personal details.
- Can answer simple questions and respond to simple statements in an interview.
Level 2 - Can make him/herself understood in an interview and communicating ideas and information on familiar topics,
provided he/she can ask for clarification occasionally, and is given some help to express what he/she wants to.
- Can take some initiatives in an interview/consultation (e.g. to bring up a new subject) but is very dependent on
interviewer in the interaction.
- Can use a prepared questionnaire to carry out a structured interview, with some spontaneous follow up questions.
Level 3 - Can provide concrete information required in an interview/consultation (e.g. describe symptoms to a doctor) but
does so with limited precision.
- Can carry out a prepared interview, checking and confirming information, though he/she may occasionally have to
ask for repetition
- Can take initiatives in an interview, expand and develop ideas with little help or prodding from an interviewer.
Level 4 - Can carry out an effective, fluent interview, departing spontaneously from prepared questions, following up and
probing interesting replies.

12
 - Can participate fully in an interview, as either interviewer or interviewee, expanding and developing the point
Level 5
being discussed fluently without any support, and handling interjections well.
- Can keep up his/her side of the dialogue extremely well, structuring the talk and interacting authoritatively with
Level 6
complete fluency as interviewer or interviewee, at no disadvantage to a native speaker.

2.2.9. Pronunciation and fluency

Level Descriptor

Level 1 -
- Clearly pronounce learnt words, phrases and expressions.
- Can use short and isolated strctures, mainly learnt ones with pauses when looking for appropriate expressions.
- .
- Pronounce clearly and relatively accurately phrases, expressions and short sentences but conversational partners
will need to ask for repetition from time to time.
Level 2
- Can make him/herself understood by providing minor details despites pauses, shortened ideas and difficulties in
rephrasing.

- Pronunciation is clearly intelligible even if a foreign accent is sometimes evident and occasional mispronunciations
occur.
Level 3
- - Can speak at length with reasonable intelligibility, despite having difficulties rephrasing structures and
vocabulary, especially in extended and free speeches.
- Has a clear, natural, pronunciation and intonation.
Level 4
- Can communicate with ease and relative fluency, even with extended and complex speeches
- Can change intonations and put stress accurately to express finer shades of meaning.
Level 5 - Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously, almost effortlessly. Only a conceptually difficult subject can
hinder a natural, smooth flow of language.
13
 - Can change intonation, tempo and put stress accurately to express finer shades of meaning.
Level 6 - Can express him/herself at length with a natural, effortless, unhesitating flow. Pauses only to reflect on precisely
the right words to express his/her thoughts or to find an appropriate example or explanation.
2.2.10. Sociolinguistic appropriateness
Level Descriptor

Level 1 - Can use a limited number of learnt grammatical structues and expressions.
- Cam use the simplest everyday polite forms of: greetings and farewells; introductions; saying please, thank you,
sorry etc
- Can use some appropriate exchanges related to everyday topics
Level 2
- Can socialize appropriately in simple situations in family, classroom and workplace.
- Can use a wide range of basic vocabulary/grammar, but still have difficulties expressing complex thoughts or
unfamiliar topics and situations.
Level 3 - Can socialize in a wide range of everyday situations, using language apppropriately
- Is aware of the salient politeness conventions and acts appropriately in everyday situations at school and
workplace.

- Can use vocabulary and grammatical structures relatively accurately, but sometimes needs help in selecting
appropriate language.
Level 4
- Can express him- or herself confidently, clearly and politely in a formal or informal register, appropriate to the
situation and person(s) concerned.
- Can use vocabulary, pronunciation and grammatical structures accurately, confidently, and effectively, but
sometimes have to pause, change ideas and seek different expressions.
Level 5
- Can recognise a wide range of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms, appreciating register shifts; may,
however, need to confirm occasional details, especially if the accent is unfamiliar.

14
 - Can use vocabulary, pronunciation and grammatical structures accurately, confidently, and effectively for social
purposes.
- Has a good command of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms with awareness of connotative levels of
meaning
Level 6
- Appreciates fully the sociolinguistic and sociocultural implications of language used by native speakers and can
react accordingly
- Can mediate effectively between speakers of the target language and that of his/her community of origin taking
account of sociocultural and sociolinguistic differences.
2.2.11. Task fulfilment
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can complete a small part of the simplest task of the test tasks (answer simple hints) in a limited manner; the
majority of the answers are not appropriate, vague or ignored ( possibly due to misunderstanding)
- Can complete the simplest task of the test tasks(answer simple hints) in a limited manner; the majority of the
Level 2
answers are not appropriate, vague or ignored (possibly due to misunderstanding)
- Can complete the majority of the test tasks in a limited manner; some answers are not appropriate, vague or
Level 3
ignored (possibly due to misunderstanding)
- Can complete the test tasks in an acceptable manner, the majority of the answers are appropriate, but a small
Level 4
number may not be appropriate or vague (possibly due to misunderstanding)
Level 5 - Satisfactorily complete the test tasks; the majority of the answers are appropriate.
Level 6 - Effectively complete the test task; answers are appropriate.
2.3. Reading descriptor
2.3.1. Overall reading descriptor
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can understand very short, simple texts on learnt topics such as personal information, family, school, friends and
so on.

15
 - Can understand short, simple texts on familiar matters of a concrete type which consist of high frequency everyday
Level 2
or job-related language
- Can read straightforward factual texts on subjects related to his/her field and interest with a satisfactory level of
Level 3
comprehension.
- Can read with a large degree of independence, adapting style and speed of reading to different texts and purposes,
Level 4 and using appropriate reference sources selectively. Has a broad active reading vocabulary, but may experience
some difficulty with low-frequency idioms.
- Can understand in detail lengthy, complex texts, whether or not they relate to his/her own area of speciality,
Level 5
provided he/she can reread difficult sections.
- Can understand and interpret critically virtually all forms of the written language including abstract, structurally
complex, or highly colloquial literary and non-literary writings.
Level 6 - Can understand a wide range of long and complex texts, appreciating subtle distinctions of style and implicit as
well as explicit meaning.
2.3.2. Reading for information and argument
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can get an idea of the content of simpler informational material and short simple descriptions, especially if there
is visual support.
- Can identify specific information in simpler written material he/she encounters such as letters, brochures and
Level 2
short newspaper articles describing events.
- Can identify the main conclusions in clearly signalled argumentative texts.
Level 3
- Can recognise the line of argument in the treatment of the issue presented, though not necessarily in detail.
- Can understand articles and reports concerned with contemporary problems in which the writers adopt particular
Level 4
stances or viewpoints.
- Can understand in detail a wide range of lengthy, complex texts likely to be encountered in social, professional
Level 5
or academic life, identifying finer points of detail including attitudes and implied as well as stated opinions.
Level 6 - As above
2.3.3. Reading for information

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 Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can recognise proper names, familiar words and very basic phrases on simple notices in the most common
everyday situations.
-
- Can find specific, predictable information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, prospectuses,
menus, reference lists and timetables.
- Can locate specific information in lists and isolate the information required (e.g. use the directory to find a
Level 2
services number).
- Can understand everyday signs and notices: in public places, such as streets, restaurants, railway stations; in
workplaces, such as directions, instructions, hazard warnings.

- Can find and understand relevant information in everyday material, such as letters, brochures and short official
Level 3 documents.

- Can scan longer texts in order to locate desired information,

Level 4 - Can quickly identify the content and relevance of news items, articles and reports on a wide range of professional
topics, deciding whether closer study is worthwhile.
Level 5 - As above
Level 6 - As above
2.3.4. Reading correspondence

Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can understand short, simple messages on postcards.
- Can follow short and simple directions ( e.g. from X to Y)

17
 - Can understand basic types of standard electronic routine letters and faxes (enquiries, orders, letters of
confirmation etc.) on familiar topics
Level 2 - Can understand short simple personal letters.
- Can understand regulations, such as safety regulations, written in simple language.
- Can understand simple operating instructions for everyday equipments such as public telephones
- Can understand the description of events, feelings and wishes in personal letters well enough to correspond
regularly with a pen friend.
Level 3
- Can understand the operating instruction written clearly and coherently for a specific equipment

- Can read correspondence related to his/her field of interest and readily grasp the essential meaning
Level 4 - Can understand lengthy, complex instructions in his/her field, including details on conditions and warnings,
provided he/she can reread difficult sections.
- Can understand any correspondence given the occasional use of a dictionary.
Level 5 - Can understand in detail lengthy, complex instructions on a new machine or procedure, whether or not the
instructions relate to his/her own area of speciality, provided he/she can reread difficult sections.
Level 6 - As above
2.3.5. Reading to process texts
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can rewrite simple words and very brief texts presented in standard printed format
- Can regconize and reproduce words and phrases or simple sentences in a text.
Level 2
- Can copy short texts presented in a standard printed format or handwritten.
- Can contrast short pieces of information from a number of sources and summarize the main content.
Level 3
- Can paraphrase short texts in a simple manner, using words and structures from the original texts.

18
 - Can summarise a wide range of factual and imaginative texts, commenting on and discussing contrasting points of
view and the main themes.
Level 4
- Can summarise extracts from news items, interviews or documentaries containing opinions, argument and
discussion.
Level 5 - Can summarize long and demanding texts
- Can summarise information from different sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent
Level 6
presentation of the overall result.
2.4. Writing descriptor
2.4.1. Overall written production
Descriptor
Level
Level 1 Can write phrases and sentences about personal background, family, school and workplace.
Level 2 Can write a series of simple phrases and sentences linked with simple connectors like and", but and because.
Can write straightforward connected texts on a range of familiar subjects within his field of interest, by linking a series of
Level 3
shorter discrete elements into a linear sequence.
Can write clear, detailed texts on a variety of subjects related to his field of interest, synthesising and evaluating
Level 4
information and arguments from a number of sources.
Can write clear, well-structured texts of complex subjects, underlining the relevant salient issues, expanding and
Level 5 supporting points of view at some length with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples, and rounding off with an
appropriate conclusion.
Can write clear, smoothly flowing, complex texts in an appropriate and effective style and a logical structure which helps
Level 6
the reader to find significant points.
2.4.2 Written production: Creative writing
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can write simple phrases and sentences about themselves and imaginary people, where they live and what they do.
- Can write a series of simple phrases and sentences about their family, living conditions, educational background,
Level 2
present or most recent job.

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 - Can write short, simple imaginary biographies and simple poems about people.
- Can write straightforward, detailed descriptions on a range of familiar subjects within his field of interest.
- Can write accounts of experiences, describing feelings and reactions in simple connected text.
Level 3
- Can write a description of an event, a recent trip - real or imagined.
- Can narrate a story.
- Can write clear, detailed descriptions of real or imaginary events and experiences, marking the relationship
between ideas in clear connected text, and following established conventions of the genre concerned.
Level 4 - Can write clear, detailed descriptions on a variety of subjects related to his/her field of interest.
- Can write a review of a film, book or play.
- Can write clear, detailed, well-structured and developed descriptions and imaginative texts in an assured, personal,
Level 5
natural style appropriate to the reader in mind.
- Can write clear, smoothly flowing, and fully engrossing stories and descriptions of experience in a style
Level 6
appropriate to the genre adopted.

2.4.3. Written production: Rreport and essay writing

Level Descriptor
Level 1 - No descriptor available
Level 2 - No descriptor available.
- Can write short, simple essays on topics of interest.
- Can summarise, report and give his/her opinion about accumulated factual information on familiar routine and
Level 3 non-routine matters within his field.
- Can write very brief, reports to a standard conventionalised format, which pass on routine factual information and
state reasons for actions.
- Can write an essay or report that develops an argument systematically with appropriate highlighting of significant
Level 4 points and relevant supporting detail.
- Can evaluate different ideas or solutions to a problem.

20
 - Can write an essay or report which develops an argument, giving reasons in support of or against a particular point
of view and explaining the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
- Can synthesise information and arguments from a number of sources.
- Can write clear, well-structured expositions of complex subjects, underlining the relevant salient issues.
Level 5
- Can expand and support points of view at some length with subsidiary points, reasons and relevant examples.
- Can produce clear, smoothly flowing, complex reports, articles or essays which present a case, or give critical
Level 6 appreciation of proposals or literary works.
- Can provide an appropriate and effective logical structure which helps the reader to find significant points.
2.4.4. Written interaction: Overall written interaction descriptor

Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can ask for or pass on personal details in written form
Level 2 - Can write short, simple formulaic notes relating to matters in areas of immediate need.
- Can convey information and ideas on abstract as well as concrete topics, check information and ask about or
explain problems with reasonable precision.
Level 3
- Can write personal letters and notes asking for or conveying simple information of immediate relevance, getting
across the point he/she feels to be important
Level 4 - Can express news and views effectively in writing, and relate to those of others.
Level 5 - Can express him/herself with clarity and precision, relating to the addressee flexibly and effectively.
Level 6 - As above
2.4.5. Written interaction: Correspondence
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can write short simple postcards; fill in simple forms and tables.

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Level 2 - Can write very simple personal letters expressing thanks and apology.

- Can write personal letters describing experiences, feelings and events in some detail.
Level 3 - Can write personal letters giving personal informationn and expressing thoughts about job- and studies-related
topics and topics about culture, music and movies.
- C th vit th t giao dch vi cc mc cm xc v thi , nu c kin c nhn, tr li v bnh lun v
kin v quan im ca ngi nhn th.
Level 4
- Can write letters conveying degrees of emotion and attitudes, and highlighting the personal opinions, responding
and commenting on the correspondent's news and views.
- Can express him/herself with clarity and precision in personal correspondence, using language flexibly and
Level 5
effectively, including degress of emotion, allusions and jokes.
Level 6 - As above

2.4.6. Written interaction: Notes, messages and forms

Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can write numbers and dates, own name, nationality, address, age, date of birth or arrival in the country etc. such
as on a hotel registration form.
- Can take a short, simple message
Level 2
- Can write short, simple notes and messages related to matters in areas of immediate need.
- Can write notes conveying simple information of immediate relevance to friends, service people, teachers and
Level 3 others who feature in his/her everyday life, getting across comprehensibly the points he/she feels are important.
-
Can take messages communicating enquiries, explaining problems.
Level 4 - As above
Level 5 - As above
Level 6 - As above

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 2.4.7. Processing texts
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can copy out single words and short texts presented in standard printed format
- Can pick out and reproduce key words and phrases or short sentences from a short text within the learners limited
Level 2 competence and experience. Can copy short texts
- Can collate short pieces of information from several sources and summarise them for somebody else. Can
Level 3 paraphrase short written passages in a simple fashion, using the original text wording and ordering.
- Can summarise a wide range of factual and imaginative texts, commenting on and discussing contrasting points of
view and the main themes.
Level 4 - Can summarise extracts from news items, interviews or documentaries containing opinions, argument and
discussion.
- Can summarise the plot and sequence of events in a film or play.
Level 5 - Can summarise long, demanding texts.
- Can summarise information from different sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent
Level 6 presentation of the overall result.
2.4.8. General linguistic range
Level Descriptor

Level 1 - Has a very basic range of simple expressions about personal details and needs of a concrete type.

Level 2 - Has a repertoire of basic language, which enables him/her to deal with everyday situations with predictable content,
though he/she will generally have to compromise the message and search for words. Can produce brief everyday
expressions in order to satisfy simple needs of a concrete type: personal details, daily routines, wants and needs,
requests for information. Can use basic sentence patterns and communicate with memorised phrases, groups of a few
words and formulae about themselves and other people, what they do, places, possessions etc. Has a limited repertoire
of short memorised phrases covering predictable survival situations; frequent breakdowns and misunderstandingsoccur
in non-routine situations.
Level 3 - Has enough language to describe unpredictable situations, explian the main points of the issue with reasonable
precision and express his/her thoughts on abstracts or cultural topics such as music and movies. Has sufficent

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 vocabulary to express his/her needs with some hesitation and circumlocutions on topics such as family, hobbies and
interests, work, travel, and current events, but lexical limitations cause repetition and even difficulty with formulation
at times.
Level 4 - Can express him/herself clearly and without much sign of having to restrict what he/she wants to say. Has a sufficient
range of language to be able to give clear descriptions, express viewpoints and develop arguments without much
conspicuous searching for words, using some complex sentence forms to do so.
Level 5 - Can select an appropriate formulation from a broad range of language to express him/herself clearly, without having to
restrict what he/she wants to say.
Level 6 - Can exploit a comprehensive and reliable mastery of a very wide range of language to formulate thoughts precisely,
give emphasis, differentiate and eliminate ambiguity. No signs of having to restrict what he/she wants to say.
2.4.9. Vocabulary range

Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Has a basic vocabulary repertoire of isolated words and phrases related to particular concrete situations.
Level 2 - Has sufficient vocabulary to conduct routine, everyday transactions involving familiar situations and topics. Has a
sufficient vocabulary for the expression of basic communicative needs.and coping with simple survival needs.

Level 3 - Has a sufficient vocabulary to express him/herself with some circumlocutions on most topics pertinent to his everyday
life such as family, hobbies and interests, work, travel, and current events.
Level 4 - Has a good range of vocabulary for matters connected to his field and most general topics? Can vary formulation to
avoid frequent repetition, but lexical gaps can still cause hesitation and circumlocution.
Level 5 - Has a good command of a broad lexical repertoire allowing gaps to be readily overcome with circumlocutions; little
obvious searching for expressions or avoidance strategies. Good command of idiomatic expressions and
colloquialisms.
Level 6 - Has a good command of a very broad lexical repertoire including idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms; shows
awareness of connotative levels of meaning.
2.4.10. Vocabulary control
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - No descriptor available

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Level 2 - Can control a narrow repertoire dealing with concrete everyday needs.
Level 3 - Shows good control of elementary vocabulary but major errors still occur when expressing more complex thoughts or
handling unfamiliar topics and situations.
Level 4 - Lexical accuracy is generally high, though some confusion and incorrect word choice does occur without hindering
communication.
Level 5 - Occasional minor slips, but no significant vocabulary errors.
Level 6 - Consistently correct and appropriate use of vocabulary.
2.4.11. Grammar accuracy
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Shows only limited control of a few simple grammatical structures and sentence patterns in a learnt repertoire.
Level 2 - Uses some simple structures correctly, but still systematically makes basic mistakes - for example tends to mix up
tenses and forget to mark agreement; nevertheless, it is usually clear what he/she is trying to say.
Level 3 -
Communicates with reasonable accuracy in familiar contexts; generally good control though with noticeable mother
tongue influence. Errors occur, but it is clear what he/she is trying to express.. Uses reasonably accurately a repertoire
of frequently used "routines" and patterns associated with more predictable situations.
Level 4 - Good grammatical control. Occasional "slips" or non-systematic errors and minor flaws in sentence structure may still
occur, but they are rare and can often be corrected in retrospect. Does not make mistakes which lead to
misunderstanding.
Level 5 - Consistently maintains a high degree of grammatical accuracy; errors are rare and difficult to spot.
Level 6 - Maintains consistent grammatical control of complex language, even while attention is otherwise engaged such as in
forward planning or in monitoring others reactions.
2.4.12. Orthographic accuracy
Level Descriptor
Level 1 - Can copy familiar words and short phrases e.g. simple signs or instructions, names of everyday objects, names of
shops and set phrases used regularly.
- Can spell his/her address, nationality and other personal details.
Level 2 - Can copy short sentences on everyday subjects - e.g. directions how to get somewhere

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 - Can write with reasonable phonetic accuracy (but not necessarily fully standard spelling) short words that are in
his/her oral vocabulary.
Level 3 - Can produce continuous writing, which is generally intelligible throughout.
- Spelling, punctuation and layout are accurate enough to be followed most of the time.
Level 4 - Can produce clearly intelligible continuous writing, which follows standard layout and paragraphing conventions.
- Spelling and punctuation are reasonably accurate but may show signs of mother tongue influence.
Level 5 - Layout, paragraphing and punctuation are consistent and helpful.
- Spelling is accurate, apart from occasional slips of the pen.
Level 6 - Writing is orthographically free of error.
V. Self-evaluation grid
In order for learners to assess their own foreign language proficiency, based on which they can plan and create their
own roadmap, learning method to achieve the required level, The Common Vietnamese Framework of Reference for
Languages issues the self-evaluation grid as follows:

Level Reception Interaction Production

Listening Reading Spoken Written Spoken Written

Interaction Interaction Production Production
Level I can recognise I can recognize I can ask and I can write a short, I can use simple I can write simple
1 familiar words and familiar words, answer questions simple postcard, for phrases and phrases or
very basic phrases phrases and very about familiar examples sending sentences to talk sentences.
concerning myself, simple sentences topics concerning holiday greetings. I about familiar
my family and concerning myself, myself, family, can fill in forms topics concerning
immediate concrete family, and school when people with personal myself, family,
surroundings when immediate concrete speak slowly, details, for example school.
people speak surroundings. I can clearly, and entering my name,
slowly and clearly. understand very sometimes repeat nationality and

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Level Reception Interaction Production

Listening Reading Spoken Written Spoken Written

Interaction Interaction Production Production
short and simple in order to help me address on a hotel
texts on posters, formulate what I registration form.
announcements. am trying to say.
Level I can understand I can understand I can communicate I can write short, I can use a series of I can write a series
2 phrases and the phrases and the in simple and simple notes and learned phrases and of simple phrases
highest frequency highest frequency routines concerning messages relating sentences to and sentences
vocabulary related vocabulary related myself, family, to matters in areas describe in simple linked with simple
to areas of most to areas of most school, my living of immediate need. terms my family connectors like
immediate personal immediate personal place. I can handle I can write a very and other people, and, but and
relevance such as relevance (e.g. simple and familiar simple personal living conditions, because.
family information, very basic personal social exchanges letter, for example my educational
shopping, living and family but cant keep the thanking someone background and my
place, employment. information, conversation going. for something. present or most
I can catch the shopping, local recent job.
main point in short, geography,
clear, simple employment). I can
announcements. catch the main
point in short,
clear, simple
messages and
announcements.
Level I can understand I can understand I can enter I can write simple I can connect I can write
3 the main points of the main points of unprepared into texts related to phrases in a simple straightforward
clear standard clear standard conversation on topics that are way in order to connected text on

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Level Reception Interaction Production

Listening Reading Spoken Written Spoken Written

Interaction Interaction Production Production
speech on familiar speech on familiar topics that are familiar or of describe topics, which are
matters regularly matters regularly familiar, of personal interest. I experiences and familiar, or of
encountered in encountered in personal interest or can write personal events, my dreams, personal interest.
work, school, work, school. I can pertinent to letters describing hopes & ambitions.
leisure, etc. I can understand the everyday life (e.g. experiences and I can briefly give
understand the description of family, hobbies, impressions. reasons and
main point of many events, feelings and work, travel and explanations for
radio or TV wishes in personal current events). opinions and plans.
programmes on letters. I can narrate a story
current affairs or or relate the plot of
topics of personal a book or film and
interest when the describe my
delivery is reactions.
relatively slow and
clear.
Level I can understand I can read articles I can interact with a I can write letters I can present clear, I can write text on a
4 extended speech and reports degree of fluency highlighting the detailed wide range of
and lectures and concerned with and spontaneity personal descriptions on a subjects related to
follow and contemporary that makes regular significance of wide range of my interests. I can
understand even problems in which interaction with events and subjects related to write an essay or
complex lines of the writers adopt native speakers experiences. my field of interest. report, passing on
argument provided particular stances quite possible. I I can explain a information or
the topic is of my or viewpoints. I can can take an active viewpoint on a giving reasons in
interest or understand part in discussion topical issue giving support of or
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Level Reception Interaction Production

Listening Reading Spoken Written Spoken Written

Interaction Interaction Production Production
reasonably contemporary in familiar the advantages and against a particular
familiar. literary prose. contexts, disadvantages of point of view.
I can understand accounting for and various options.
most TV news and sustaining my
current affairs views.
programmes. I can
understand the
majority of films in
standard dialect.
Level I can understand I can understand I can express I can express I can present clear, I can express
5 extended speech long and complex myself fluently and myself in writing detailed myself in clear,
even when it is not factual and literary spontaneously with clarity and descriptions of well-structured
clearly structured. texts, appreciating without much precision, relating complex subjects text, expressing
I can understand distinctions of obvious searching to the addressee integrating sub- points of view at
television style. I can for expressions. I flexibly and themes, developing some length. I can
programmes and understand can use language effectively in an particular points write detailed
films without too specialised articles flexibly and appropriate style. and rounding off expositions of
much effort. and longer effectively for with an appropriate complex subjects in
technical social and conclusion. an essay or a
instructions, even professional report, underlining
when they do not purposes. I can what I consider to
relate to my field. formulate ideas and be the salient
opinions with issues. I can write

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Level Reception Interaction Production

Listening Reading Spoken Written Spoken Written

Interaction Interaction Production Production
precision and relate different kinds of
my contribution texts in a style
skilfully to those of appropriate to the
other speakers. reader in mind.

Level I have no difficulty I can read critically I can take part (See Level 5) I can present a I can write clear,
6 in understanding virtually all forms effortlessly in any clear, smoothly- smoothly flowing
any kind of spoken of the written conversation or flowing description text in an
language, whether language, including discussion and or argument in a appropriate style. I
live or broadcast, abstract, have a good style appropriate to can write complex
even when structurally or familiarity with the context and letters, reports or
delivered at fast linguistically idiomatic with an effective articles, which
native speed, complex texts such expressions and logical structure present a case with
provided I have as factual and colloquialisms. I which helps the an effective logical
some time to get literary works. I can express myself recipient to notice structure, which
familiar with the can understand a fluently and convey and remember helps the recipient
accent. wide range of finer shades of significant points. to notice and
lengthy and meaning precisely. remember
complex texts, If I do have a significant points. I
appreciating problem I can can write
distinction of style backtrack and summaries and
and implicit as well restructure around reviews of
as explicit the difficulty so professional or
meaning. smoothly that other literary works.

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Level Reception Interaction Production

Listening Reading Spoken Written Spoken Written

Interaction Interaction Production Production
people are hardly
aware of it.

P.p Minister
Deputy Minister

(Signed)

Nguyn Vinh Hin

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