EXPERT – In the ICAO English Language Proficiency test, the Expert Level (Level 6) is the highest rating, indicating that a candidate has excellent command of aviation English. At this level, the speaker can handle complex and unexpected situations effectively and communicates with ease. Here’s how each of the six proficiency criteria is marked at the Expert Level:
1. Pronunciation
- Marking at Expert Level: Pronunciation, stress, and intonation are consistently clear and natural, even in challenging or high-stress situations. Any accent is subtle and does not interfere with intelligibility. At this level, the speaker’s pronunciation allows for effortless understanding by native and non-native listeners.
2. Structure (Grammar and Sentence Construction)
- Marking at Expert Level: The speaker demonstrates a thorough and accurate use of grammatical structures, even in complex or nuanced sentences. Errors are rare and do not affect communication. The speaker has full control over sentence structure, allowing them to convey ideas with clarity and precision.
3. Vocabulary
- Marking at Expert Level: Vocabulary is extensive, accurate, and adaptable. The speaker is able to use precise terms and expressions relevant to aviation as well as general topics. They can choose words skillfully to convey subtle meanings, respond to unexpected situations, and adapt vocabulary as needed without hesitation.
4. Fluency
- Marking at Expert Level: Speech is smooth, continuous, and effortless, with no hesitation or unnecessary pauses. The speaker can discuss complex ideas seamlessly and can shift topics or adapt their speech flow easily when required. They exhibit an ability to speak spontaneously and naturally, maintaining consistent fluency.
5. Comprehension
- Marking at Expert Level: The speaker demonstrates complete and accurate comprehension, even in complex, fast-paced, or accented speech. They understand idiomatic expressions, nuances, and implicit meaning without needing clarification. Their ability to comprehend spoken English remains steady and reliable, regardless of context.
6. Interactions
- Marking at Expert Level: Interaction skills are highly effective, responsive, and appropriate. The speaker can manage conversations smoothly, respond accurately to questions, and adapt to unexpected situations effortlessly. They are comfortable with turn-taking, clarification, and any interactive elements that ensure effective communication.
Overall Scoring at Expert Level (Level 6)
To achieve the Expert Level (Level 6), the speaker must exhibit consistent mastery in all six criteria. This includes a natural and flexible use of language, complete comprehension, smooth and adaptive interactions, and clear pronunciation. A Level 6 speaker can manage complex or unforeseen situations with ease, demonstrating complete proficiency in English within an aviation context. This level is ideal for aviation professionals who must perform at a high standard in various operational and emergency scenarios.
The Expert Level is typically required for pilots and air traffic controllers who operate in English-speaking environments, as it ensures that they can communicate precisely and effectively under any circumstances.