We are the Cambridge Examination Center.
English is currently the most widely spoken language in the world, being also the official language in more countries than any other language and the native language of approximately 350 million people.
In addition, it is the international language in the world of diplomacy, technology, finance, computing, medicine, engineering, tourism, etc.
English is used in best universities, more and more in job interviews and is, above all, an instrument to succeed in any profession.
Nowadays it is a real necessity to have a good command and fluent management of at least two languages and to function in daily situations in English, which is why our center decides to implement the English language in the classroom as a tool for communication and I work in some areas.
As a consequence, it becomes necessary not only to use it, but to be able to demonstrate its knowledge. In this way, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages was born, as a guide to describe the achievements of foreign language students throughout Europe. Its main objective is to provide a method of learning, teaching and evaluation applicable to all European languages from which the comparison or homologation of the different titles issued by certified entities is favored.
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages establishes an initial division into three large blocks, which then branches into two more restrictive levels:
- Block A: Basic user.
- Level A1: Access.
- Level A2: Platform.
- Block B: Independent user.
- Level B1: Threshold.
- Level B2: Advanced.
- Block C: Competent user.
- Level C1: Effective operational domain.
- Level C2: Master.
At Colegio Alborán we are aware that studying English is much more than learning a subject, which is why, in addition to the four hours taught weekly to fulfill our study program, we have decided to give our students the opportunity to acquire some of the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, before they leave for university.
To develop this project we have chosen Cambridge ESOL Examinations, recognized worldwide, and which can increase the options of our students, to study or work, opening doors to higher education or improving employment opportunities. Another great advantage of the Cambridge exams is that, once the certificate is obtained, they are valid forever.
Cambridge offers us five different levels (in brackets the equivalent level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages):
- KET (Key English Test) (A2)
- PET (Preliminary English Test) (B1)
- FIRST (First Certificate in English) (B2)
- CAE (Certificate of Advanced English) (C1)
- CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English) (C2)
Of the five levels we prepare three:
- KET (A2) (aimed at 1st and 2nd ESO students)
- PET (B1) (aimed at 3st and 4nd ESO students)
- FIRST (B2) (aimed at 1st and 2nd year high school students)
The school offers several preparation sessions a week, where our students learn to face the exams by practicing the different parts, which are very varied: grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing and speaking. Although the preparation sessions are aimed at a very specific group of students, they are free to choose the exam they want to take.
Furthermore, those students who have a good level of English, who do not want to attend the preparation classes but are interested in taking the exam, we encourage them to do so, helping them in their training.
During the school year, our students take tests as well as a mock exam to find out how they are progressing. And at the end of the course, they are examined by professors of Cambridge ESOL examinations, who come to the Alborán school to develop said exams and issue the Titles.
Thanks to this project, our students finish their studies with a B2 level as an extra on their curriculum.