The Background of and Approach to Can-do Description of Language Ability: Taking CEFR as an Example

[Author(s)]:Fang Xujun, Yang Huizhong, Zhu Zhengcai 

  Journal: Chinese Teaching in the World, 2011, issue 2

  Authors: Fang Xujun, Yang Huizhong, Zhu Zhengcai

  Institutions: ShangHai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Normal University

  Abstract: In the field of current language teaching and testing, it is widely accepted to describe language ability in a comprehensive, multi-faceted, and graded way, using the so-called Can-do statements. Taking Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) as an example, this paper outlines the background of and approach to Can-do description of language ability, and how to construct a framework for the description and describe its parameters.

  Key Words: language ability, Can-do statements, Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), language testing