Writing is an essential part of language learning and assessment, and it is an important part of the DELF exams, which are internationally recognized French language proficiency tests. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the writing section of the DELF exams and how it is structured in the different levels: A1, A2, B1, and B2.
The DELF exams are divided into four levels, which correspond to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The A1 and A2 levels are designed for beginner and intermediate learners, while the B1 and B2 levels are for more advanced learners. Each level is divided into two parts: written and oral. The writing section is part of the written exam, and it tests the candidate’s ability to produce written texts in French. In both new and old formats, the written exam is the same, unlike the reading and listening section.
Writing in the DELF A1
In the A1 level, the writing section consists of two tasks where the candidate is asked to fill a short questionnaire about themselves. In the, second task is a short letter of 40 to 50 words The topic is usually related to the candidate’s personal life, daily routine or aholiday, and the text should be simple and straightforward. The aim of this section is to test the candidate’s basic writing skills, including their ability to express themselves in simple sentences and use basic vocabulary and grammar correctly.
Writing in the DELF A2
In the A2 level, the writing section consists of two tasks. In the first task, the candidate is asked to write a short text (80-100 words) on a given topic. The topic is usually related to the candidate’s personal life or interests, and the text should be more detailed and expressive than in the A1 level. In the second task, the candidate is asked to write a letter (150-200 words) on a given topic. The letter should follow the standard format for a formal or informal letter in French and should include an introduction, body, and conclusion. The aim of this section is to test the candidate’s ability to write coherent and cohesive texts using a wider range of vocabulary and grammar structures.
Writing in the DELF B1
In the B1 level, the writing section consists of two tasks. In the first task, the candidate is asked to write a short text (150-200 words) on a given topic. The topic is usually related to a current event or social issue, and the text should be more analytical and argumentative than in the lower levels. In the second task, the candidate is asked to write a letter (200-250 words) on a given topic. The letter should follow the standard format for a formal or informal letter in French and should include an introduction, body, and conclusion. The aim of this section is to test the candidate’s ability to write more complex texts using a wide range of vocabulary and grammar structures and to express their opinions and arguments clearly and persuasively.
Writing in the DELF B2
In the B2 level, the writing section consists of two tasks. In the first task, the candidate is asked to write a short text (200-250 words) on a given topic. The topic is usually related to a current event or social issue, and the text should be more analytical and argumentative than in the lower levels. In the second task, the candidate is asked to write an essay (300-350 words) on a given topic. The essay should have a clear structure and should include an introduction, body, and conclusion. The aim of this section is to test the candidate’s ability to write well-organized and coherent texts using advanced vocabulary and grammar structures and to express their opinions and arguments clearly and persuasively.