Steps up the Languages Ladder
Listening
Grade/Step 1
I can understand a few familiar spoken words, phrases and short sentences. These can
include classroom commands, praise words, being asked simple personal questions, such
as name, age. Phrases may need to be repeated.
Grade/Step 2
I can understand a range of familiar spoken phrases and short sentences. As well as the
language covered at Step 1, I can also understand a variety of phrases which can include
the colour of things, birthdays, days of the week. I can take part in short conversations.
Sentences may need to be repeated.
Grade/Step 3
I can understand the main points from a short spoken passage made up of familiar
language, including sentences where language is used in new combinations. I can
identify and note main points and personal responses, including likes, dislikes and
opinions.
Grade/Step 4
I can understand the main points and some of the detail from a spoken passage made up
of familiar language in simple sentences. I can transcribe short extracts with some
accuracy. I can understand when someone talks about their likes, dislikes and opinions.
Grade/Step 5
I can understand the main points and opinions in spoken passages made up of familiar
material from various contexts. The passages will also include some longer sentences
and some unfamiliar language. I can understand present, past or future tenses. I can also
transcribe accurately extracts that I hear.
Speaking
Grade/Step 1
I can say and repeat single words, short simple phrases and short sentences. I can imitate
correct pronunciation with some success.
Grade/Step 2
I can answer simple questions and give basic information using short, simple set phrases
or sentences. I can take part in simple conversations where my meaning is clear. I show
that I know the appropriate sound patterns in Spanish.
Grade/Step 3
I can ask and answer simple questions and talk about my interests. I can take part in
conversations and presentations where I can talk about my feelings, likes, dislikes and
opinions. I am using mainly memorized language but can also substitute words of my
own.
Grade/Step 4
I can take part in a simple conversation of at least three or four exchanges where I
express my opinions. I use visual and other clues to help me. My pronunciation and
intonation are generally accurate. I have some knowledge of grammar which I can use to
help me create new sentences.
Grade/Step 5
I can give a short prepared talk, on a topic of my choice which includes me expressing
my opinions. I can take part in short, unprepared conversations using the present tense
but also referring to events in the past or future. I can use a wide variety of language and
can combine structures, giving extended responses.
Reading and Responding
Grade/Step 1
I can recognise and read a few familiar words, phrases and short sentences. I may need
some clues to help me.
Grade/Step 2
I can understand and read out familiar written phrases and short sentences. I show that I
can match the sound with the words and phrases by reading aloud. I can use glossaries to
help me find the meanings of nouns.
Grade/Step 3
I can understand the main points from a short written text that is made up of familiar
language and in a clear printed script. I can identify and note opinions, feelings, likes
and dislikes. I can read simple texts by myself with the help of a dictionary or glossary.
Grade/Step 4
I can understand the main points and some of the detail from short written texts in
familiar contexts. I have developed strategies to help me read unknown short fiction and
non-fiction texts using the context and clues to work out the meanings.
Grade/Step 5
I can understand the main points and opinions in written texts from various contexts
where longer sentences are used.
I can read fiction written by great writers and authentic non-fiction. I can understand
work written in the present and past or future tenses. I can read aloud confidently and
use reference material. I can translate sentences into English, making sense of language
used in new combinations and new contexts.
Writing
Grade/Step 1
I can write or copy simple words correctly. I can choose the correct words to label items
and complete lists.
Grade/Step 2
I can write or copy one or two short sentences to a model and fill in the words on a
simple form. My spelling may be approximate when I write from memory.
Grade/Step 3
I can write a few short sentences with support, using expressions which I have already
learnt. I can write about my feelings and opinions, likes and dislikes.
I can write phrases and sentences from memory and via dictation and my spelling is
readily understandable.
Grade/Step 4
I can write a short text of at least four sentences on a familiar topic, adapting language
which I have already learnt. I can write new sentences using the grammar that I know to
substitute words and phrases. I can use a dictionary to check words.
Grade/Step 5
I can write a short text on a range of familiar topics, using simple sentences.
I can use the present tense plus past or future tenses in my writing. I can use a dictionary
to check spellings and look up unknown words. I can translate English sentences into
Spanish with very little support.