A1 English Level (Beginner)

The A1 English Level (Beginner) represents the lowest beginner level of proficiency according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

• You can introduce yourself: “Hello, My name is Jane.“
• You can ask simple questions: “How are you?“
• You can give basic information: “I’m 22 years old.“

At the A1 level, individuals typically have very limited or no knowledge of English. They may be able to understand and use familiar everyday expressions and basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of concrete needs.

Learners at this level have a limited vocabulary consisting of common words and phrases related to everyday topics like greetings, family, numbers, and basic activities.

They can produce simple sentences with basic grammatical structures, such as present tense verbs and simple noun phrases.

They can understand simple spoken and written texts, especially if they are spoken slowly and clearly and use basic vocabulary.

Learners at this level can engage in very basic communication tasks, such as introducing themselves, asking for simple information, and responding to simple questions.

Overall, the A1 level represents the starting point for individuals learning English as a second language, and it is foundational for developing higher levels of proficiency.

Test your English level now

Answer 40 questions and find out your English language level comfortably.

Play the audio recording below to listen to an example of a conversation by someone speaking English at an A1 level.

Individuals at the A1 English level have very limited proficiency in the language, but they can perform some basic communication tasks. Here are some examples of what someone at the A1 level might be able to do:

They can introduce themselves using basic phrases such as “Hello, my name is…” and provide simple personal information like age, nationality, and occupation.

They can greet others and respond to greetings using common phrases like “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” and “How are you?”

They can ask and answer simple questions about personal details, such as where they are from, their likes and dislikes, and basic preferences.

They can make basic requests for information or assistance, such as asking for directions, ordering food or drinks, or requesting help in a store.

They can understand simple written texts like short messages, signs, and notices, as well as simple spoken instructions and conversations on familiar topics.

They can participate in simple transactions, such as buying tickets, making reservations, or exchanging basic information with others.

Overall, individuals at the A1 English level have limited language skills, but they can manage basic communication tasks in everyday situations with support and guidance.

At the A1 English level, individuals typically have very limited reading proficiency. They can understand simple and familiar written texts containing basic vocabulary and structures. Here are some examples of the types of reading materials that someone at the A1 level might be able to read.

They can understand short signs, labels, and simple instructions found in everyday environments, such as street signs, product labels, and warning notices.

They can read simple greetings, messages, and short notes, such as birthday cards, postcards, and simple emails or text messages.

They can read very short and basic stories designed for beginners, typically with repetitive language and simple vocabulary, such as children’s picture books or easy-reader stories.

They can understand simple lists, forms, and tables containing basic information, such as grocery lists, simple schedules, and basic personal information forms.

They can understand basic advertisements, announcements, and public notices with simple language and familiar topics, such as job postings, event flyers, and community notices.

Overall, individuals at the A1 English level have limited reading skills and can understand only very simple written texts with familiar vocabulary and structures. They may need support and guidance to comprehend more complex or unfamiliar materials.

Test your English level now

Answer 40 questions and find out your English language level comfortably.

At the A1 English level, individuals have very limited proficiency in the language, but they can engage in basic spoken communication. Here are some ways someone at the A1 level might be able to talk.

They can introduce themselves using simple phrases such as “Hello, my name is…” or “Hi, I’m…”

They can greet others and respond to greetings using common phrases like “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” “Good evening,” and “Goodbye.”

They can ask and answer simple questions about personal details, such as where they are from, their age, and their occupation.

They can express basic needs and preferences using simple phrases, such as “I would like…” or “I prefer…”

They can make simple requests for information or assistance, such as asking for directions, ordering food or drinks, or requesting help in a store.

They can give simple instructions or directions using basic vocabulary and simple sentence structures.

They can describe basic objects, people, and actions using simple adjectives and verbs.

Individuals at the A1 English level can take steps to develop their language skills and progress to higher proficiency levels. Here are some tips for how someone at the A1 level can improve their English:

• Take English classes: Enroll in English language classes specifically designed for beginners. These classes will provide structured lessons and opportunities to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English.
• Practice regularly: Set aside time each day to practice English. Practice speaking with friends, family members, or language partners who are fluent in English. Use English-language learning apps, websites, and resources to practice reading, listening, and vocabulary.
• Learn basic vocabulary: Focus on building a foundation of basic vocabulary words and phrases related to everyday topics such as greetings, numbers, colors, food, clothing, family, and activities.
• Listen to English: Listen to English-language audio materials such as podcasts, radio programs, songs, and audiobooks. Focus on listening for key words and phrases and try to understand their meanings in context.
• Read simple texts: Start reading simple texts in English, such as children’s books, easy-reader stories, or graded readers designed for beginners. Focus on understanding the main ideas and key information.
• Practice speaking: Practice speaking English as much as possible, even if it’s just practicing simple greetings or conversations with yourself. Record yourself speaking and listen to your pronunciation and intonation.
• Use language-learning apps: Utilize language-learning apps and websites that offer interactive exercises, quizzes, and games to practice English vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
• Seek feedback: Ask for feedback from teachers, language partners, or native speakers to help identify areas for improvement and track your progress over time.
• Be patient and persistent: Learning a new language takes time and effort, so be patient with yourself and stay motivated. Set achievable goals and celebrate your progress along the way.

By incorporating these strategies into their language-learning routine, individuals at the A1 English level can gradually improve their skills and work towards achieving higher proficiency levels in English.

At the A1 English level, individuals may encounter some basic idiomatic expressions in everyday conversations. Here are a few examples of simple idioms that someone at the A1 level might come across.

• Piece of cake: Used to describe something that is very easy to do. Example: “Don’t worry, learning to ride a bike is a piece of cake!”
• Break a leg: A way to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance or important event.
  Example: “You’re going to do great on your presentation today! Break a leg!”
• Cost an arm and a leg: Used to describe something that is very expensive. Example: “I wanted to buy that new phone, but it costs an arm and a leg.”
• Hit the hay: Means to go to bed or go to sleep.
  Example: “I’m feeling tired, so I think I’ll hit the hay early tonight.”
• Bite the bullet: Means to face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and determination.
  Example: “I know the exam will be tough, but we just have to bite the bullet and do our best.”
• Under the weather: Means to feel unwell or sick.
  Example: “I can’t come to work today because I’m feeling a bit under the weather.”
• Spill the beans: Means to reveal a secret or share confidential information. Example: “I can’t believe you spilled the beans about the surprise party!”

Test your English level now

Answer 40 questions and find out your English language level comfortably.

At the A1 English level, learners typically have a very basic vocabulary consisting of common words and phrases used in everyday situations.

Individuals at the A1 level should know around 300 to 500 commonly used words and phrases. These words cover essential topics such as greetings, numbers, colors, family members, food and drink, daily activities, and basic emotions. Additionally, learners should be familiar with basic grammar structures and sentence patterns to form simple sentences and engage in basic conversations.

• Hello
• Goodbye
• Yes
• No
• Please
• Thank you
• Sorry
• Excuse me
• Help
• How are you?
• I’m fine, thank you.
• What is your name?
• My name is…
• Where are you from?
• I am from…
• How old are you?
• Numbers 1-20
• Days of the week
• Months of the year
• Colors (e.g., red, blue, green)
• Basic greetings and farewells
• Family members (e.g., mother, father, brother, sister)
• Food items (e.g., apple, bread, milk)
• Common animals (e.g., cat, dog, bird)
• Simple verbs (e.g., eat, drink, sleep)
• Common adjectives (e.g., big, small, happy)
• Simple prepositions (e.g., in, on, under)
• Basic directions (e.g., left, right, straight)
• Simple question words (e.g., who, what, where)
• Common objects and everyday items (e.g., table, chair, house)

The CEFR A1 level in English indicates basic proficiency in the language. While A1 English speakers may not be fluent, they are able to perform simple tasks and engage in basic communication. Many job opportunities are still available for those with A1-level English skills, especially in roles that don’t require advanced language proficiency.

While A1-level speakers have limited English skills, they can still find entry-level positions that rely more on manual or repetitive tasks rather than advanced communication.

Jobs Suitable for CEFR A1 English Speakers

1. Hospitality and Tourism

Many roles in the hospitality industry, such as housekeeping, hotel cleaning, or kitchen assistance, don’t require advanced English skills. In these jobs, basic communication is enough to handle daily tasks like cleaning rooms or assisting chefs in preparing food.

2. Retail and Sales Assistants

Sales assistant roles in small shops or supermarkets are often open to people with A1 English proficiency. While you may not engage in detailed conversations with customers, you can perform tasks like stocking shelves, scanning items, and answering simple questions.

3. Manual Labor

Jobs like construction worker, factory line worker, or warehouse assistant rely more on physical tasks than communication. These jobs are well-suited for A1 speakers, as they usually involve following clear, simple instructions.

4. Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning jobs in offices, schools, and public spaces do not require advanced English. A1 English speakers can easily understand the tasks and instructions provided in these environments, especially if given proper training.

5. Delivery Services

Although having CEFR A1 English may limit job options, there are still plenty of opportunities available in various industries. By working in manual labor, hospitality, retail, cleaning, and delivery, you can gain valuable work experience while improving your language skills for future opportunities.

1. Question: What color is the sky on a sunny day?

a) Blue

b) Red

c) Green

d) Yellow

2. Question: Which word means “hello”?

a) Goodbye

b) Hi

c) Thank you

d) Bye

3. Question: What do you say when someone sneezes?

a) Good morning

b) Thank you

c) Bless you

d) Goodbye

Answers: 1-a , 2-b, 3-c