Learning English can be a challenging journey, especially when you encounter different teaching styles and assessment methods. Have you ever wondered why you can easily read complex texts but still struggle with basic verb tenses? Or perhaps you feel frustrated when placed in a class level that doesn’t fully reflect your abilities. There's a chance that these discrepancies can be explained by the two main proficiency dynamics: fluctuating and fixed. So let's explore these dynamics and how they can impact your learning experience.
There are two main proficiency dynamics: fluctuating and fixed.
The images below visually illustrate the differences between these proficiency dynamics. The first image shows progress with gaps, typical of the fluctuating dynamic, while the second image displays consistent progress, characteristic of the fixed dynamic.
A fluctuating dynamic would reveal that your competencies within a certain level can vary. For example, you might be able to understand advanced vocabulary in familiar contexts but still struggle with specific basic grammar topics.
Conversely, a fixed dynamic would indicate that you maintain a consistent level of competence across all content of a certain level, closely following the criteria established by the CEFR.
The rigid approach of many schools, which strictly follows the CEFR without considering individual variations, can severely restrict the development of students with a fluctuating dynamic, classifying them below their actual level and forcing them to revisit concepts they have already mastered to fill negligible gaps. For students with a fixed dynamic, sharing the classroom with higher-level students – incorrectly classified at a previous level – can limit their linguistic development and confidence.
It is important to highlight that immigrants, who often learn English through immersion and/or alternate between different schools, tend to exhibit a fluctuating proficiency dynamic. Teaching methods traditionally developed for students with a fixed dynamic, which assume a linear and uniform progression, often do not meet the needs of these students, as they do not account for the variable and adaptive nature of their communicative skills. Therefore, a more flexible and personalized approach is crucial to effectively support the linguistic development of immigrants, ensuring confidence and competence in all aspects of the language.
Recognizing the fluctuating and fixed proficiency dynamics is essential to creating a learning environment that meets the individual needs of each student. By understanding these differences, teachers and institutions can adapt their approach to better support the linguistic progress of their students, ensuring that each student has the opportunity to reach their true potential. Whether you are a student or an educator, consider these dynamics when planning your teaching and learning strategies, promoting a more effective and inclusive path to English fluency.
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