Take stock: assess your progress and prepare for 2026

The end of the year is the perfect time to take stock of your language learning. Whether you’re taking English or French courses, or progressing on your own, taking the time to assess what you’ve learned will help you set off again in 2026 with renewed motivation – and, above all, clear objectives.

In this article, we propose a simple method for measuring your level, identifying your progress and defining your priorities for the coming year.

1. Why have a language assessment?

We often underestimate our progress when it’s gradual. Yet you’ve probably :

• enrich your vocabulary,

• strengthen your grammar skills,

• improve your listening comprehension,

• become more fluent,

• or overcome obstacles you had only a few months ago.

A check-up allows you to :

✔ highlight your successes,
✔ spot areas still weak,
✔ adjust your learning method,
✔ better focus your efforts for 2026.

2. How do you assess your level in English or French?

Here’s a simple 3-step method:

Step 1: Measure your current level

You can use :

• free online level tests (CEFR: A1 → C2),

• timed exercises to test your reflexes,

• oral and written comprehension quizzes,

• or ask a teacher for a personalized assessment.

A good assessment combines at least two modes: listening + reading, or grammar + oral expression.

Step 2: Analyze your skills

Create two columns in a notebook:

Acquis 2025 :

• What concepts do you master?

• What automatisms have you acquired?

• Which communication situations do you find easier?

2026 targets :

• What skills would you like to consolidate?

• What new needs arise (travel, work, certification)?

• What level would you like to reach by December?

This perspective gives you a clear and motivating vision.

Step 3: Identify “little weaknesses

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I still have trouble understanding films without subtitles?

• Do I have enough vocabulary to talk about my work or hobbies?

• Am I comfortable writing a professional email?

Make a note of each difficulty: these are your areas of progress for 2026.

3. Set your goals for 2026

Effective goals are always :

Specific

E.g. “Be able to hold a 10-minute telephone conversation in English”.

Measurable

Ex: “Learn 20 new words a week.”

Achievable

E.g.: “Take one course a week, either face-to-face or online.”

Made to last

Example: “Watch a series in VO every Tuesday evening.”

Even a small regular goal can transform your level.

4. Resources for year-round progress

To maintain your motivation and progress without pressure, you can use :

• platforms such as BBC Learning, TV5Monde, Duolingo and Linguee,

• podcasts adapted to your level,

• VO series with intelligent subtitles,

• personalized courses in Geneva for regular follow-up.