European survey on language skills

The European Commission has adopted a Communication presenting a European Survey on the foreign language skills of pupils in the EU Member States. The survey will test pupils' skills in their first and second foreign languages learned. 

In the first round of testing, planned to be carried out in 2009, the tests will measure three skills (reading, listening and writing) in the first and second most widely taught European languages of the EU: English, French, German, Spanish and Italian.

Data from the European survey will provide information on foreign language competence among young people (14-16 years old) in the Union, on where good practice and performance can be found, and in due time on progress of improving foreign language learning. This strategic information will help policy makers, teachers and learners in all Member States to improve the teaching and learning of foreign languages.

For more information: European survey on language skills