FOR NLSC USE ONLY
NATIONAL LANGUAGE SERVICE CORPS (NLSC)
CONTROL NUMBER
GLOBAL SKILLS SELF-ASSESSMENT
SECTION 2 READING
LANGUAGE:
INSTRUCTIONS: Read and consider the following six descriptions of reading proficiency (numbered 0 through 5, including 1+ through 4+). Afterwards, decide which
description most accurately represents your overall reading proficiency in the language named above. If your language proficiency is substantially better than one level but
not consistently as good as the next higher level, select the appropriate “plus” level.
(X one)
NO
I have no practical ability to read the language. I consistently misunderstand or I cannot comprehend at all.
PROFICIENCY
0
I am able to read very simple text that is printed clearly with normal-style letters. For example, I can read and
ELEMENTARY
understand descriptions of persons, places or things. I can also understand- written explanations of geography and
1
PROFICIENCY
government such as those simplified for tourists, though I sometimes misinterpret what I read. When looking at
more complex texts, I can only get some main ideas and locate prominent information or subject matter.
1+
I can read simple written material in print on subjects I am familiar with. I am able to read straightforward, familiar
and factual material with only some misunderstandings. I can locate the main ideas and details in material written
LIMITED
for the general public. I can read uncomplicated prose on familiar subjects. I can generally comprehend most news
2
WORKING
articles involving description or narration of current events, travel, food,and music. I can also comprehend simple
PROFICIENCY
biographies, social notices, personal correspondence, routine business letters, and simple technical material written
for the general public.
2+
I can read a variety of materials on unfamiliar subjects with normal speed and almost complete comprehension.
I can fully understand news stories or international news items in magazines, routine correspondence, editorials,
GENERAL
and general reports. I can understand technical reports and other materials in my field of specialization even when
3
PROFESSIONAL
they include hypothesis, argumentation, and supported opinions. I can read and comprehend literature, including
PROFICIENCY
short stories, novels, and plays. I can usually read between the lines, if necessary. I rarely have to reread general
vocabulary; however, I may have some difficulty with unusually complex structures or low frequency idioms.
3+
I can read nearly all styles and forms of the language pertinent to professional needs fluently and accurately. I
ADVANCED
can readily follow unpredictable turns of thought and author intent in such materials as sophisticated editorials,
PROFESSIONAL
4
specialized journal articles, professional documents, and complex literary texts, as well as any subject directed
PROFICIENCY
toward the nonspecialized reader. I can also read legal documents and legal texts written for the general reader and
documents from earlier periods containing archaic forms of language.
4+
I can fully understand extremely difficult and abstract prose, including general legal and technical material, as well
EDUCATED
as contemporary and classical literature. I can read classical or archaic forms of writing as well as a well-educated
5
NATIVE
native. I can read a wide variety of handwritten documents. My speed and comprehension are equal to that of a
PROFICIENCY
well-educated native reader.
DD FORM 2934, JAN 2016
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