CEFR level A1 · Beginner
A1 English Speaking Practice (Beginner)
At A1 you are taking your first steps in spoken English. You can use simple, familiar words and very short phrases, especially when the other person speaks slowly and is ready to help.
What you can do at A1
- Introduce yourself and say where you are from
- Ask and answer simple questions about people you know and things you have
- Use numbers, prices, days and times in short exchanges
- Understand slow, clear questions about everyday topics
What to focus on
- Core everyday vocabulary: family, food, home, work, time
- The verb “to be” and simple present sentences
- Clear pronunciation of common words and numbers
- Polite phrases: please, thank you, sorry, can you repeat?
Speaking tips for A1 learners
- Learn phrases, not just single words — “Can I have…?” is more useful than “have”.
- Repeat short dialogues out loud until they feel automatic.
- Don’t wait to be perfect: short, simple answers are exactly right at this level.
Good conversation topics at this level
- Introducing yourself
- Family and friends
- Daily routine
- Food and shopping
Not sure this is your level?
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Other English levels
- BeginnerA2 — ElementaryAt A2 you can handle short, routine conversations about familiar topics. You still rely on simple sentences, but you can now exchange basic information without much help.
- IntermediateB1 — IntermediateAt B1 you can deal with most situations you meet while travelling or in everyday life. You can join conversations on familiar topics, describe experiences, and give short reasons for your opinions.
- IntermediateB2 — Upper IntermediateAt B2 you can talk with fluency and spontaneity, so regular conversations with native speakers are possible without strain on either side. You can explain a viewpoint and discuss advantages and disadvantages.
- AdvancedC1 — AdvancedAt C1 you express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for words. You use English flexibly for social, academic and professional purposes.
- AdvancedC2 — ProficientAt C2 you can take part effortlessly in any conversation and express fine shades of meaning precisely. Your English is close to that of a highly educated speaker.