Testing your second language level

Some feel you must have years of schooling to master a second language. Some say an immersion course in a country of your second language of no less than five years is required. Some feel you must be able to recite the grammar rules. So, how do you really know your level of language mastery? The answer really is simple. Use the language. What? Use the language. Yes, that is what I said – Use the language!

You see, regardless of what level you rank on those exams that are supposed to determine your level of competence in a given language i.e., beginner, intermediate, advanced, the true acid test is your use of the language. How far can you go without reverting back to your native tongue? What, in other words is your breaking point? Is it a few minutes? Is it an hour? Is it all day?

My theory is the longer you are able to remain in your second language the higher your level. This, of course, does not mean you will not make mistakes. After all, very few of us are perfect in our native language, let alone a second language.

Here are a few starters for you:

1) Change your cell phone commands to your second language.
2) Have your bills come in your second language.
3) Watch T.V. only in your second language.
4) Only shop in stores where someone can speak your second language.
5) Use those ATM machines in your second language.
6) Eat at restaurants that speak your second language.
7) Speak to telemarketers in your second language.

You get the idea, I hope. The more you are able to convert to your second language the higher your ability of communication in that language. The most enjoyable for me is number seven. I just love speaking only in my second language to telemarketers. Some times they hang up, which of course hurts my feelings. I am being sarcastic here. At other times to my delight the telemarketer switches languages. I still tell them no to whatever they are peddling, but at least I did it in my second language.