Becoming Proficient in English: Your Path to Fluency

What is Proficiency in English?

Proficiency (C2) in English is the highest level of English based on the CEFR standard. If someone is C2, it corresponds to them being a proficient speaker. They can understand practically everything spoken or written in English and express themselves spontaneously, fluently, and precisely. C2 proficiency is about smooth communication. While not perfect, their fluency allows you to express themselves clearly despite minor stumbles, which does not impact understanding.

What is the difference between Proficiency and Advanced in English?

Advanced English ESL speakers (C1) can also express themselves clearly in English; however, they may spend more time searching for the right words or phrases than a C2 speaker. C1 speakers demonstrate near native-like competence and have a high confidence level in their language use. They normally assimilate well into academic or professional environments. C1 speakers respond to almost any social situation. . A C2 speaker does not necessarily sound like a native speaker, but they can express themselves in a native-like way and have confidence and ease when using the English language. C2 speakers use direct language appropriately and can navigate almost all English-speaking settings with freedom and confidence. Think of C1 speakers as skilled chefs who can whip up most dishes but might need a recipe for something complex. C2 speakers are like culinary masters who can create anything with ease, improvising on flavours and techniques.

Both C1 and C2 speakers communicate clearly in both professional and social settings, have the freedom to reach higher career goals, and take on new goals that match their English fluency.

How to break free from B1 level

The road to proficiency in English is a long one. While most students are dedicated to their studies, they frequently become stuck at the Intermediate (B1) level and cannot advance to higher proficiency levels. Students find that they have reached a plateau in their learning and that their progress has slowed, especially compared to the start of their English language journey. In class, they have exhausted new grammar points, and the theoretical portion of learning has dwindled; the

Intermediate level will focus more on applying your studies to real life instead of learning new material. This stage may be demotivating b due to this seeming lack of progress. Take this time to boost your vocabulary and challenge yourself with complex material. Also, focus on fluency rather than perfection and treat mistakes as valuable learning experiences. Prioritize clarity over perfect grammar when conversing The Intermediate level is a transitional period you must overcome to reach proficiency level.

How to reach C2 proficiency in English

Reaching proficiency in English is a challenging task. It takes time, dedication, and constant exposure to the language. This helpful list will tell you everything you need to know about conquering the different fluency levels and reaching your goals. Remember that every student learns differently and at their own pace; learning a new language takes time and practice, so your commitment to yourself is just as crucial as any English Language coursebook.

1. Immerse yourself in the language: surround yourself with English daily.

Read English books, newspapers, and online media. Listen to English podcasts, films, shows, and radio and incorporate them into your daily commute or while you eat breakfast. It’s essential to do something in English every day, even for a short time. Listening in English means being exposed to different accents, vocabulary and grammar structures. Try to speak in English daily, whether with friends, family, or colleagues. Come into constant contact with the language regularly to keep your skills sharp and learn new terms and ideas outside the classroom.

2. Be an active English ESL learner.

This means that while you immerse yourself in the language, you note new words or phrases, identify grammar points, isolate parts of speech, and actively listen to the language you are surrounding yourself in. Remember, consistency is key, so you should not only be practising daily but actively seeking new learning opportunities.

3. Expose yourself to appropriate material: use resources that reflect your level.

Check out more advanced news media sites like The New York Times, Time Magazine, or The Guardian, which will expose you to heightened vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Watch documentaries instead of action films to introduce yourself to more intricate ideas. Stray outside your comfort zone and seek material that aligns with your English skills.

4. Spend time in an English-speaking country

Since English is a universal language, you can combine your holiday with an immersive experience. Being in an English-speaking country will expose you to social conversations and common expressions not found in your coursebooks. You can practise what you learn in class in real time and learn from locals who will be happy to converse with you.

5. Practise with fluency tests

Tests might fill us with anxiety, but they are a great way to see where we excel and where we need to improve. They are also an excellent way to prepare for your eventual certification test. Numerous tests and study materials are available online, where you can hone your skills and get a sense of your score before the actual exam.

How to test your English proficiency

Tests offer a clear target, providing a benchmark to measure your strengths and weaknesses. Here is a list of relevant tests for C1 and C2 English levels that you can take once you are confident in your skills.

1. The IELTS Academic test (a score of 8.5 and higher reflects C2 level)
2. The TOEFL iBET (a score of 118-120 reflecting proficiency level)
3. The PTE test (score an 86 or higher and you will qualify for C2)
4. The Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) for C1 levels.
5. The Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE) for C2 levels.

Be sure to research these exams and their areas of focus because each test is different. However, if you are not ready to take the exams, you can use the material to practise and get accustomed to the test format. This will help prepare you for the real deal.

Reach Proficiency with Individual Lessons at BELS.

These are great ways to improve your level; nothing beats one-on-one attention with a high-quality teacher. This way, you can practise regularly with a master of the language and focus on your specific and unique learning needs. With tailor-made classes and individual attention, you can reach proficiency with ease. So, why not take a private class with our teachers at BELS? Not only will you be immersed in the language, but you can focus on reaching your learning goals with a dedicated teacher who will support you throughout your journey.

Email us at [email protected] to learn more about our courses and improve your English proficiency.