Since 2001, Europe has moved to fundamentally new language standards, so classic British textbooks are now also reprinted in accordance with the new levels. Has anything seriously changed with the introduction of levels? No, but strict classification put an end to heterogeneous self-made divisions into groups in language schools. And the trend was obvious - firstly, to create more levels than necessary (this is to take more money), and secondly, to overestimate your level for self-esteem. This is when A2 was given out as an intermediate level of English, which can only be called average, given its position between levels A1 and B1.
Total 6 new standards of language proficiency (well, or 7 - if you take into account zero). So, the intermediate level of knowledge of the English language is not one, but two levels according to the modern classification - B1 and B2. People who own it to this degree are also called Independent Users, in particular, those who holdcolumn B2 in the classification. And in the new system, it is recommended to move away from the old name “intermediate-level of English” and either call B1 and B2 Lower and Upper Intermediate, respectively, or even use other, very specific terms - Threshold and Vantage levels. In other words, the old terms won't help you navigate the modern sea of textbooks.
Knowledge of English at the intermediate level, if the language school did not deceive you, most likely corresponds to the level B1. What does this mean practically? A person understands clearly spoken speech well when the vocabulary refers to frequently used or related to his professional activities. Can cope with almost any situation that arises when it is necessary to travel around the country of the language being studied (hence the term "independent", as we talked about above). Can deliver a coherent speech on topics related to work or personal interests. Briefly justify your opinion, state the evidence or plan of action. That is, an intermediate level of English, even at the lowest level, is a good degree of language proficiency.
How is a B2 user described? He understands a wider range of texts, is capable of perceiving the main ideas of even complex scientific texts, while B1 is the level for everyday interaction. The speech is fluent, with a lot of spontaneity, which makes conversations with native speakers devoid of tension for both parties.
Able to create clear and detailed text on a large number of topics, not only work and household. Able to clearly state the advantages and disadvantages of different kinds of opinions. Such a user of the language is rightfully called independent. Level B2 allows you to start studying at the university level in an English-speaking country. Occurs in the brightest graduates of the strongest specialized schools or in graduates of good non-linguistic universities.
These two levels are intermediate, there are two more above - C1 and C2, and everyone who already has an intermediate level of English should strive for them. After all, higher categories provide an opportunity for professional immigration or work in expensive language courses for English teachers. In general, the C1 level is average for good students and excellent students of language universities. But not all carriers manage to get C2.
