What you'll learn
- Listening
- Speaking
Introduction
This document provides an overview of the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (Communication – Speaking and Listening) 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) (Communication – Speaking and Listening) is designed for non-native English speakers who need to improve their speaking and listening skills at the B1 level. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to handle familiar and routine communication in speaking and listening at the B1 level on the Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR).
Candidate Category
Candidates interested in taking this qualification may include those who:
– Need a starting point to work 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.
– Submit an immigration application.
Candidates come from a diverse range of national and cultural backgrounds.
Entry Requirements
There are no entry requirements for this qualification, and prior English qualifications are not necessary. However, LRN recommends that candidates are well-prepared before taking the test. Downloadable sample materials are available on the LRN website, and LRN-approved centers ensure candidates are fully prepared with trained teachers and appropriate resources.
Progression
Depending on the level of qualification achieved, candidates may progress to:
– 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 in English and thoroughly checked by LRN officers and subject specialists. Teachers are expected to provide clear, diverse, and suitable materials for Entry Level ESOL candidates.
Qualification Overview
The LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (Communication – Speaking and Listening) is based on the CEFR and reflects its language ability levels. The qualification consists of a single unit, with speaking and listening components that must be passed to achieve a certificate at Entry Level 3 (CEFR B1). The recommended guided learning hours for this qualification are 110, following a syllabus set by centers and approved by LRN.
Level
This qualification is designed to be assessed at CEFR level B1 / Entry 3 (NQF). For more information on National Qualifications Framework and Common European Framework, see related documents.
Qualification Features
The LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (Communication – Speaking and Listening) comprises three sections assessing competency in speaking and listening at Entry Level 3. The examination is conducted by an LRN-trained examiner and recorded.
Results
Marks are allocated according to the mark scheme and securely returned to LRN’s head office for processing. Results are moderated and approved by the Lead Moderator, with the aim of issuing results to centers within 6-10 working days.
Center Delivery
All LRN qualifications are delivered through LRN-approved centers, which must demonstrate necessary resources, experience, expertise, and administration to gain approval. Examination papers are sent in advance and must be securely stored in a locked cabinet within a locked room at the approved center where candidates will be assessed. Centers wishing to report malpractice should do so in writing using the malpractice report form. All instances of malpractice are addressed within 30 working days.
Assessment
The LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (Communication – Speaking and Listening) is 100% externally assessed by an LRN examiner. Candidates are assessed in pairs, with the assessment consisting of three compulsory sections lasting up to 16 minutes in total (approximately 6 minutes per candidate, depending on individual ability). Section 1 covers introductory questions, Section 2 requires candidates to express and support opinions and views, and Section 3 involves participation in a role-play.
Marking
Marks are allocated by the examiner immediately after the assessment, with all interviews recorded. The examiner refers to the mark scheme to determine marks and may refer back to the recording for clarification. All examiners have access to extra batteries and CDs for recording purposes in case of dictaphone malfunction, with center support. Assessment materials are sent back to LRN’s head office within 2 working days, and marks are submitted to the moderation team. Grade boundaries for this qualification are as follows:
– Merit: 13-15
– Pass: 0-12
– Fail: 0-8
Certification
Results for the LRN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 3) (Communication – Speaking and Listening) are issued within 6-10 working days from the date assessments are received at the head office. The grading is also provided on the certificate.
