What you'll learn
- Reading
- Listening
- Speaking
- Writing
Introduction
This specification document provides an overview of the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) for candidates, centers, administrators, teachers, and examiners. It outlines the key features and administrative procedures required for this test.
Objective
The LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) is designed for non-native English speakers who need to improve their English language skills at the CEFR level B1. Candidates are expected to demonstrate the ability to understand clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, and other everyday situations and contexts. The language level assessed aligns with the Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR) at B1.
Candidate Category
Candidates interested in taking the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) may include those who:
– Need a starting point for working towards an English qualification.
– Work or seek work in an English-speaking environment.
– Live and work in a country where English is the native and official language.
Candidates come from a range of different national and cultural backgrounds.
Entry Requirements
There are no entry requirements for this qualification, including prior knowledge, levels of understanding, or familiarity with the subject. It is not necessary to have a previous English qualification before registering. However, LRN recommends that candidates be well-prepared before taking the test. Downloadable sample materials are available on the LRN website, where candidates can access sample assessment materials. LRN-approved centers ensure candidates are fully prepared by using trained teachers and appropriate resources, as outlined in the center agreement with LRN.
Progression
The LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) accommodates candidates with diverse origins, education levels, and career goals. Progression opportunities may vary and can include:
– A higher level of any ESOL International qualification – e.g., Level 1 ESOL qualification
– A key skills or functional skills qualification
– Vocational qualifications
Language of Assessment
LRN uses plain, clear, unbiased, and appropriate English for Entry Level candidates. All assessments and related materials are written in English and rigorously checked by LRN officers and subject specialists before release. Teachers preparing candidates should ensure that their materials are clear, diverse, and suitable for Entry Level ESOL candidates.
Qualification Overview
The LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) is based on the CEFR, reflecting its defined language ability levels. The qualification consists of a single unit, assessing candidates’ reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills. The total qualification time is 256 hours.
Qualification Features
The LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) assesses four English language sub-skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. References to the CEFR in the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) Mark Scheme demonstrate the connection between the qualification structure and the CEFR. The following information provides a breakdown of the qualification’s features.
Results
LRN-trained examiners mark the writing and speaking components of the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1). Marks are allocated for each candidate according to the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) mark scheme for writing and speaking. Results are issued within 4 to 6 weeks upon receiving the candidate results from the test center.
Reading and Listening
Reading and Listening components of the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) are marked by clerical markers using answer keys for each question paper. To ensure standardization, Reading and Listening clerical markers complete induction training and standardization exercises before each paper (where required). Results are then moderated according to LRN’s moderation policy, with moderated results forwarded to the Lead Moderator for final approval.
Speaking and Writing
The speaking examination is conducted by an LRN-trained examiner and recorded on a dictaphone. Marks for speaking and writing skills are allocated to each candidate according to the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (CEF B1) mark scheme. The assessment is 100% externally assessed by an LRN examiner.
Speaking sub-skills are assessed in pairs. If there is an odd number of registered candidates, a dummy candidate will be used for pairing. Candidates receive pre-released speaking topics five working days before the exam from their center. Results are moderated according to LRN’s moderation policy, with moderated results forwarded to the Lead Moderator for final approval.
Marking
– Each Reading question carries 0.5 marks (40 questions)
– Each Listening question carries 1 mark (20 questions)
– Writing is based on 2 questions, each carrying a maximum of 10 marks
– Speaking is a three-part exam and carries a maximum of 20 marks
Grading
Results are reported as distinction, merit, pass, or fail grades. Candidates’ marks for all sub-components are combined to give an overall grade based on the minimum marks per grade level below:
– 0-39: Fail
– 40-51: Pass
– 52-63: Merit
– 64+: Distinction
