Proficiency Targets for French, Russian, and Spanish
Proficiency is the ability to use language in real-world situations in a spontaneous interaction and non-rehearsed context. (ACTFL Performance Descriptors for Language Learners, 2015)
Can create with language and handle social interactions in everyday situations:
- 8th Grade: Intermediate High
- 6th & 7th Grades: Intermediate Mid
- 4th & 5th Grades: Intermediate Low
Can communicate on familiar topics using words, phrases, and simple sentences that have been memorized:
- 2nd & 3rd Grades: Novice High
- 1st Grade: Novice Mid
- Kindergarten: Novice Low
Updated proficiency guidelines are provided by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.
Why Aren't The Proficiency Targets For Russian Set Differently From Those For Spanish And French?
Although the FSI classifies Russian as a Category IV language, many GVA students in Russian-speaking communities are either native speakers or have Russian-speaking family members. This background influences their initial proficiency and learning pace. Proficiency targets serve as general guidelines for expected progress over time. However, because students begin at different levels and progress at varying rates, individual targets should be tailored to each student's current proficiency level.