The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is the result of over ten years' research by a number of leading applied linguists and pedagogical specialists from the 41 member states of the Council of Europe. Its various drafts have undergone widespread consultation and the end product is a unique contribution to applied linguistics, providing a completely new, detailed model for describing and scaling language use and the different kinds of knowledge and skills required. The Framework is addressed to all professionals in the modern languages field and is intended to stimulate reflection on objectives and methods, to facilitate communication and to provide a common basis for curriculum development, the elaboration of syllabuses, examinations and qualifications, thus contributing to easier international educational and vocational mobility. It is an invaluable tool for those working in teacher education and training, syllabus and test design, and textbook and materials production.