News

Cambridge develop new course to help learners of English climb the qualifications ladder

6 January 2011

Language schools training students to the crucial “B1” level of English – where users are considered “independent” according to international standards – can take advantage of a new course from Cambridge language experts.

The Cambridge B1 Course Online has been developed by two departments of Cambridge University: University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL) and Cambridge University Press. It is set at level B1 which is defined by The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) as the level when learners can understand the main points on familiar matters encountered in work, school and leisure. Cambridge ESOL’s Sharon Harvey says:

“As the Common European Framework becomes more widely used in a range of industries, language schools need adequate training solutions to offer ambitious students. The course combines classroom and online study to help students to develop just the kind of real-life communication skills they need.”

The course, which is suitable for learners over the age of 16, is made up of a mix of 75 hours online self-study using a Learning Management System and 25 hours face to face teaching. It includes teachers’ notes, supplementary materials, timed practice tests, a dictionary, references, and hundreds of media-rich activities written by expert authors. Sharon Harvey explains what students taking the course will be able to achieve:

”The course has been designed to help learners bridge the gap between simple and complex language usage and covers familiar topics such as travel, family and sport. It’s an excellent preparation tool for exams such as Cambridge English: Preliminary, an intermediate qualification in English recognised by thousands of organisations around the world.”

To view a Flash demo or find out more information about the Cambridge B1 Course Online, go to www.CambridgeB1.org