[semi-OT] Whee :)

There are some of us in this group who write, or intend to write,
fiction in a language they are not native speakers of (namely, English).
I am one. Some of you have, in the past, complimented me for my
English, for which I am eternally grateful.

It is nice, though, to have official validation.

For reasons that have noting to do with fiction writing and everything
to do with official certification being required at work, I took an
official test of my English language skills two months ago. The results
came in yesterday.

The test I took is administered by the Finnish government. There are
three basic levels of compentence – basic, intermediate and advanced,
and each level has a separate test. For more information, see http://www.oph.fi/english/pageLast.asp?path=447,55149,5373,5378 .

I took the advanced level test. That test has two passing grades, 5 and 6, which are officially described as follows:

6.
Understands a wide range of spoken and written language without
difficulty. Experiences only occasional difficulties with subtle
differences of tone and nuance in expressions. Speaks and writes
extremely fluently in a situationally-appropriate style. Is able to
express even subtle nuances of meaning. Has a solid command of
grammar and vocabulary in almost all situations; even small
inaccuracies are rare.

5.
Understands longer sections of speech at normal speed in face-to-face
situations and from TV and radio, even though comprehension sometimes
requires a certain amount of effort. Understands structurally and
linguistically complex texts and literature of our time. Speaks and
writes clearly and fluently on various topics, but the use of less
common vocabulary and complex sentence structures may, however, cause
difficulties. Generally has a good and versatile command of grammar
and vocabulary.
(from http://www.oph.fi/english/pageLast.asp?path=447,55149,5373,5379)

It is also possible to fail this test, which indicates a skill level below 5.

My results were:

General assessment – 6

Reading comprehension – 6
Writing – 6
Structures and vocabulary – 6
Listening comprehension – 5
Speaking – 5

(The speaking test included artificial situations in a studio, and a videotaped conversation with a native speaker.)

I'm sure reading (and occasionally posting to) this group has helped me develop my skills. Thank you :)

--
Mr. Antti-Juhani Kaijanaho, Jyväskylä, Finland
.

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