GROWTH STAGE 04
Ages 9–12 | A2 Key and B1 Preliminary require different content
A2 Key focuses on basic practical communication; B1 Preliminary adds longer texts, complete writing and sustained interaction. Evidence—not grade—drives progression.
01 · What this stage really focuses on
Secure A2 before moving into independent B1 use
02 · How ability develops
Ability evidence
Review reading, writing, listening and speaking separately
Theme ability
Build text comprehension, lexico-grammar and expression in real themes
School bridge
Connect extended reading, paragraph writing and school grammar tasks
Task transfer
Add format, timing and answer evidence after the target is clear
03 · Level content for this stage
Every level has its own content and official structure
A2
SchoolsA2 Key for Schools
Show the ability to understand basic information, complete practical reading and writing, and take part in simple communication.
- Practical texts, contextual vocabulary and information matching
- Email, note and picture-story writing
B1
SchoolsB1 Preliminary for Schools
Move toward independent English use through longer texts, sustained listening, complete writing and interactive speaking.
- Main ideas, detail, inference and structure in longer texts
- Complete emails, articles or stories
Chosen a target level? Review its assessment
Choose a fixed level from learning history, recent work and teacher judgement, then review current options and use the report to plan the next step.