INTRODUCTION HIGHER LEVELS

March 2010: Changes to Masters grade boundaries

The Higher Levels of the Anglia general English examinations are for those students who have established a broad and effective understanding of the basic structure of the language. Age is not a barrier for inclusion but Anglia does encourage everybody to work through each level to achieve full proficiency. Application of the language within various scenarios is one element that distinguishes the upper levels from the young learners as is their ability to write, read and understand progressively longer sections of text. At the top two levels in particular, some of the scenarios may contain themes and topics difficult for younger children to grasp. Levels which are designed to show that the candidate is ready and able to undertake higher education through the medium of English will necessarily require the ability to understand and articulate higher level concepts. AcCEPT Proficiency is the Ascentis Anglia ESOL International Proficiency level assessment designed specifically for non-native English speakers requiring English for higher education or for academic purposes in order to study at international universities.

Within the new AcCEPT Proficiency option the candidate will be able to demonstrate strong academic skills via section A whilst those choosing the established Proficiency level complete a piece of written work that is clearly well organised and may involve opinions and/or discussion of a set issue. To achieve the full award a candidate must complete the three mandatory units in Reading & Writing and Listening. Candidates also have the option of completing the additional Speaking unit, though this is not compulsory. Achievement of the Speaking unit is recognised on the certificate.

These levels present an increasing challenge to the candidates. At Anglia we feel that that those who have developed an effective use of the English language should enjoy the real value of the achievement and have that achievement recognised and endorsed. As confidence increases from the bridging levels of Pre-intermediate and Intermediate so the door opens for students to enjoy and share opportunities and experiences and to increasingly immerse themselves in the language. We have high expectations and high standards, but believe the examinations are a fair and balanced test of those students who choose to take higher level examinations.

Many students who follow higher level courses have already sat English language examinations and understand the challenge they face. Their natural ability will be extended by these examinations and as their depth of knowledge increases, as they build on previous learning, so they will come to enjoy success knowing that they have taken another step towards mastery of the English language.

For further information on the Ascentis Anglia ESOL International Examinations please visit www.ascentis-anglia.org