What do we measure to check level suitability?
Use new material to assess decoding, sentence or text reading, vocabulary and text-based answers. Rate each task: independent, after a hint or needs teaching.
Practical takeaways
- Assess new material.
- Distinguish not understanding French from not understanding instructions.
- Record the type of error and help.
Before the test
Explain that the activity identifies a starting point and keep the child calm. Instructions in Arabic; the model and target words in French.
Assessment tasks for Pre-A1 • Sound foundations
Stop when difficulty repeats; the goal is finding the starting point, not completing every question.
- Matching a sound to a picture
- Identifying a letter within a word
- Blending two syllables
- Reading 6 familiar words
- Reading two short sentences
- Choosing the picture matching the meaning
Interpreting the result
If mostly independent, try the next level. With a few hints, start here. Difficulty from the first tasks suggests the previous level or brief foundational support.
Reassessment
After two or three weeks, use new equivalent material, not the same memorised text.
Frequently asked questions
Is school grade enough?
No, especially in languages. Grade guides age-appropriate content; assessment determines language level.
Should we translate questions?
At this level: Instructions in Arabic; the model and target words in French. The answer must still assess understanding of the target French.
Should we use a timer?
Time may be recorded without pressure, but accuracy, comprehension and independence matter more for decisions.