✍️ Introduction The world of modern foreign languages is changing. With the updating of the examination programs in secondary education, renewed attention is being paid to language proficiency at CEFR levels (A1 through C2). But what does this mean in practice for schools, teachers, and purchasers? And how do you ensure that teaching materials truly align with the intended levels?
At Intertaal, we select only original international titles that are directly aligned with the CEFR/CEFR framework. This ensures you're working with books that are truly appropriate for the level being tested.
🧭 What is the CEFR? The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the European standard for describing language proficiency. The level ranges from A1 (beginner) to C2 (near-native).
For schools this means a clear guideline for what students should be able to do:
- A1 : understand and use simple sentences
- B1 : having conversations about familiar topics
- B2 : formulating and substantiating opinions
- C1–C2 : understanding and applying complex language
🔄 New developments from SLO and OCW The update of the Modern Foreign Languages examination programme, as published on the SLO website, focuses more on:
- Functional language skills
- Language tasks in context
- Understanding cultural diversity
- clear link to the CEFR
This change of course requires teaching materials that correspond to real language mastery, not just grammar rules or isolated word lists.
📚 Why is it important that books are appropriate for the right level? Many teaching methods claim to cater to a certain level, but they don't always meet current criteria. That's why we consciously choose:
- Methods from publishers such as Hueber, CLE, Difusión, Cambridge, Oxford, Pearson, Cengage, Alma, Klett, Cideb, Penguin, Edelsa and many others.
- Materials explicitly accredited or aligned with the CEFR
- Titles with clear level markings and skill distribution (reading, listening, speaking, writing)
This way, schools and teachers can confidently build their lesson plans and students know what to expect.
✅ What can you do as a school or teacher?
- Look critically at the ISBN and provenance of books – are they original or adopted/reprinted?
- Check whether the material in year 3 or 5 really matches the desired CEFR level
- Choose distributors who are transparent about content and level
🛒 Intertaal – Your partner for honest, accurate learning materials We only offer titles that:
- Originally published by the international publisher
- Directly linked to the recognized CEFR level
- Connecting to the curriculum in the Netherlands and Flanders
And: we're happy to help you. Not sure if a title aligns with your educational goals? We're happy to help you choose the right material.
📩 Want to know more? Would you like to receive a list of methods by language and CEFR level? Or discuss teaching materials for the new curriculum? Contact us at klantenservice@intertaal.nl or call +31 (0)36 – 54 71 690.