A2 English Level (Elementary)

The A2 English level, often referred to as “Elementary,” is the second level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

• You can understand and use everyday expressions

• Communicate in simple and routine tasks

• You can introduce yourself and others

Individuals at the A2 English level have developed beyond absolute beginner proficiency but still have a limited command of the language. They can communicate effectively in basic everyday situations but may struggle with more complex language and unfamiliar topics.

Individuals at the A2 level have a broader vocabulary compared to A1, including words and phrases related to everyday topics such as family, hobbies, routines, and common activities.

They can construct simple sentences using basic grammar structures, including present simple, past simple, and future with “going to.” However, their sentences may still contain errors and lack complexity.

They can understand simple spoken language in familiar contexts, such as basic instructions, short conversations, and announcements, as long as the speech is clear and relatively slow-paced.

They can engage in simple conversations on familiar topics, such as introducing themselves, talking about their hobbies and interests, describing daily routines, and asking for and giving basic information.

They can write simple messages, notes, and short texts on familiar topics using basic vocabulary and sentence structures. Their writing may contain errors and lack sophistication.

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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 A2 level.

Individuals at the A2 English level, also known as “Elementary,” can perform a range of tasks and communicate effectively in simple and familiar situations. Here are some examples of what someone at the A2 level can do:

They can participate in simple conversations on familiar topics such as introducing themselves, talking about their hobbies, daily routines, and interests, and asking for and giving basic information.

They can understand and follow simple spoken instructions in everyday contexts, such as following directions, completing basic tasks, and responding appropriately to requests.

They can express basic needs, desires, preferences, and feelings using simple vocabulary and sentence structures. For example, they can ask for food and drink, request assistance, or express simple emotions.

They can handle basic transactions in everyday situations, such as making purchases in stores, ordering food and drinks in restaurants, and asking for help or information in public places.

They can understand simple written texts such as short articles, advertisements, signs, and simple instructions, provided the language is clear and straightforward. They may need support with unfamiliar vocabulary and expressions.

They can write simple messages, notes, and short texts on familiar topics using basic vocabulary and sentence structures. For example, they can write emails or text messages to friends, leave notes, or fill out basic forms.

They can understand simple spoken language in familiar contexts, such as basic conversations, short announcements, and instructions, as long as the speech is clear and relatively slow-paced.

At the A2 English level, individuals have a basic understanding of English and can read a wider range of texts compared to A1 level. Here are some examples of the types of reading materials that someone at the A2 level might be able to read:

They can read short stories and passages designed for beginners, with simple language, straightforward plots, and basic vocabulary. These stories may have illustrations to aid comprehension.

They can understand and interpret common signs, notices, and labels found in everyday environments, such as street signs, menus, advertisements, and information boards.

They can read and follow simple instructions and directions for everyday tasks, such as recipes, assembly guides, and basic operating instructions for appliances or devices.

They can read and understand simple emails, text messages, and social media posts on familiar topics, such as personal messages from friends or family, event invitations, and social media updates.

They can read short news articles or reports on familiar topics, such as local events, human interest stories, or simple news summaries, provided the language is clear and straightforward.

They can complete simple forms and documents requesting personal information, such as job applications, registration forms, and basic surveys or questionnaires.

Overall, individuals at the A2 English level have developed beyond absolute beginner proficiency and can read a variety of texts on familiar topics with basic comprehension. However, they may still struggle with more complex or unfamiliar materials and may need support and guidance to fully understand and interpret them.

Test your English level now

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

A2 English level, also known as “Elementary,” can engage in basic spoken communication on familiar topics. Here are some ways someone at the A2 level can talk:

They can participate in simple conversations on familiar topics such as introducing themselves, discussing their hobbies, daily routines, and interests, and asking for and giving basic information.

They can ask and answer simple questions about personal details, preferences, and experiences using basic vocabulary and sentence structures.

They can express basic needs, desires, preferences, and feelings using simple phrases and expressions. For example, they can ask for food and drink, request assistance, or express simple emotions.

They can handle basic transactions in everyday situations, such as making purchases in stores, ordering food and drinks in restaurants, and asking for help or information in public places.

They can give and understand simple instructions or directions for basic tasks and activities using simple vocabulary and sentence structures.

They can describe simple objects, people, and actions using basic adjectives, verbs, and adverbs. For example, they can describe what they see or do in simple terms.

Individuals at the A2 English level can take steps to further develop their language skills and progress to higher proficiency levels. Here are some tips for how someone at the A2 level can improve their English:

• Regular Practice: Consistent practice is key to improving language skills. Set aside dedicated time each day to practice English, whether it’s reading, listening, speaking, or writing.
• Focus on Basic Vocabulary: Start by building your vocabulary with commonly used words and phrases. Learn everyday vocabulary related to daily activities, routines, and common objects.
• Listening Practice: Listen to English audio materials such as podcasts, radio programs, or simple dialogues. Try to understand the main ideas and key information. You can also watch English movies or TV shows with subtitles.
• Speaking Practice: Practice speaking English as much as possible. You can do this by speaking with native speakers if available, participating in language exchange programs, or practicing with a language partner or tutor.
• Reading Practice: Read simple texts in English, such as graded readers, children’s books, or news articles written for English learners. Focus on understanding the main ideas and key information.
• Writing Practice: Write short sentences, paragraphs, or simple texts in English. You can write about your daily activities, experiences, or thoughts on various topics. Pay attention to basic grammar and sentence structure.
• Use Language Learning Apps and Resources: Take advantage of language learning apps and websites that offer interactive exercises, quizzes, and games to practice vocabulary, grammar, listening, and speaking skills.
• Take English Classes: Consider enrolling in English language classes or courses designed for beginners. These classes often provide structured instruction and guidance from qualified teachers.
• Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for your language learning journey. Break down your goals into smaller tasks and track your progress regularly.
• Immerse Yourself in English: Surround yourself with English as much as possible. Listen to English music, podcasts, or radio stations. Change the language settings on your devices to English. The more you immerse yourself in the language, the faster you’ll improve.

At the A2 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:

• Bite the bullet: To endure a difficult situation with courage.
  Example: “I know the exam will be tough, but we’ll just have to bite the bullet and do our best.”
• Hold your horses: To wait or be patient.
  Example: “Hold your horses! Let’s make sure we have all the information before making a decision.”
• Jump the gun: To act too quickly or before the appropriate time.
  Example: “I think we’re jumping the gun by planning the party before we even know if she can come.”
• The ball is in your court: It’s your turn to make a decision or take action. Example: “I’ve given you all the information you need. Now the ball is in your court.”
• Catch someone’s eye: To attract someone’s attention.
  Example: “The colorful display in the shop window caught my eye as I walked by.”
• Break a leg: A superstitious way of wishing someone good luck, especially before a performance or presentation.
  Example: “Break a leg! I know you’ll do great in your audition.”
• Burn bridges: To damage or destroy relationships, usually by behaving badly or leaving a situation abruptly.
  Example: “I don’t want to burn bridges with my colleagues, so I’ll give notice before I leave the job.”
• Hit the nail on the head: To describe something accurately or identify the main point.
  Example: “You hit the nail on the head with your analysis of the situation.”
• Take the bull by the horns: To confront a difficult situation directly and with courage.
  Example: “I decided to take the bull by the horns and ask my boss for a raise.”
• Be in the same boat: To be in the same situation or have the same problem as someone else.
  Example: “Don’t worry, we’re all in the same boat. We’ll figure it out together.”

Test your English level now

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

The number of words a person should know for the A2 level of English proficiency can vary, but generally, it’s recommended that individuals have a vocabulary of around 1,000 to 1,500 words. These words would include basic vocabulary related to everyday topics such as family, hobbies, routines, common activities, and simple descriptions.

It’s important to note that vocabulary size alone doesn’t determine proficiency level, as the ability to use words effectively in context is also crucial. However, having a foundational vocabulary of around 1,000 to 1,500 words is typically sufficient for basic communication and comprehension at the A2 level.

• Greetings and Social Expressions:
  • Hello
  • Goodbye
  • Please
  • Thank you
  • Sorry
  • Excuse me
  • How are you?
  • I’m fine, thank you.
• Personal Information:
  • Name
  • Age
  • Address
  • Phone number
  • Nationality
  • Occupation
  • Family members
• Numbers:
  • 1 to 100
  • Ordinal numbers (first, second, third, etc.)
• Days of the Week and Months of the Year:
  • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, etc.
  • January, February, March, etc.
• Time:
  • Hour, minute
  • Time expressions (e.g., in the morning, at night)
• Food and Drink:
  • Apple, banana, bread, cheese, coffee, tea, etc.
  • Meal times (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Transportation:
  • Car, bus, train, bicycle, etc.
  • Travel verbs (go, come, drive, ride, walk)
• Places:
  • Home, school, work, supermarket, restaurant, park, etc.
  • Prepositions of place (in, on, at)
• Daily Activities:
  • Eat, drink, sleep, study, work, play, watch, etc.
  • Daily routines and habits
• Clothing:
  • Shirt, pants, dress, shoes, hat, etc.
  • Colors and patterns
• Health:
  • Headache, fever, cough, stomachache, etc.
  • Common illnesses and symptoms
• Weather:
  • Sunny, cloudy, rainy, windy, snowy, etc.
  • Weather expressions (It’s hot/cold/windy, etc.)
• Feelings and Emotions:
  • Happy, sad, angry, tired, excited, etc.
  • Expressions of emotion (I’m happy/sad/angry, etc.)
• Common Verbs:
  • Go, come, see, hear, speak, read, write, etc.
  • Present simple tense
• Adjectives:
  • Big, small, tall, short, old, young, etc.
  • Comparative and superlative forms
• Basic Question Words:
  • Who, what, where, when, why, how
  • Question formation
• Basic Prepositions:
  • In, on, under, behind, next to, between, etc.
• Everyday Objects:
  • Table, chair, book, pen, computer, phone, etc.
  • Household items and common objects

1. Read the following sentence and choose the correct answer:

“She _____ to the store every Saturday.”

a) goes

b) go

c) going

d) went

2. Choose the correct word to complete the sentence:

“I ____ to the gym yesterday.”

a) goed

b) goes

c) went

d) going

3. Read the question and choose the appropriate response:

“What’s your favorite color?”

a) Yes, it is.

b) Blue.

c) I’m fine, thank you.

d) My name is John.

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