In the ICAO English Language Proficiency test, an Elementary Level (Level 2) rating indicates a basic command of aviation English. This level is assessed across six proficiency criteria, with a score for each criterion determining the overall level. Here’s how each criterion is marked at the Elementary Level (Level 2):
1. Pronunciation
- Marking at Elementary Level: Pronunciation is often unclear and inconsistent, making it challenging for listeners to understand without regular effort. The speaker may have difficulty with individual sounds and intonation patterns, which can lead to misunderstandings, especially in complex or unexpected scenarios.
2. Structure (Grammar and Sentence Construction)
- Marking at Elementary Level: Grammar usage is limited and often incorrect, with only very simple structures used accurately. There may be frequent errors that make communication difficult, and more complex ideas are often not conveyed due to lack of structure or grammar limitations.
3. Vocabulary
- Marking at Elementary Level: Vocabulary is limited, often restricted to basic terms, and may lack accuracy. The speaker might struggle to find the right words, which can lead to unclear or incomplete communication, especially in unexpected situations or when more specific vocabulary is required.
4. Fluency
- Marking at Elementary Level: Speech at this level is typically slow, hesitant, and inconsistent, with frequent pauses that disrupt the flow of communication. The speaker may struggle to form sentences or express ideas without frequent pauses or self-corrections, impacting the overall fluency and clarity.
5. Comprehension
- Marking at Elementary Level: The speaker’s ability to understand spoken English is very limited, especially in cases of fast-paced or complex language. They may only comprehend basic questions or standard exchanges, often requiring repetition or clarification for less familiar or more complex content.
6. Interactions
- Marking at Elementary Level: Interaction is basic and may lack responsiveness. The speaker may struggle to respond appropriately to questions or prompts and may be unable to effectively manage conversational flow, particularly if the exchange involves unexpected or challenging situations.
Overall Scoring at Elementary Level (Level 2)
To be rated at the Elementary Level (Level 2), the speaker typically exhibits limited control across all six criteria. Communication is generally possible, but with difficulty, and only within predictable contexts. The speaker may be able to handle some routine exchanges but has limited flexibility and struggles with any deviation from standard situations or phraseology.
At this level, the speaker is not yet operationally proficient for complex communication or for handling abnormal or emergency situations, which is why a higher level of proficiency (typically Level 4 or above) is required for operational pilots and air traffic controllers.