Application & Uses

Where are the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) being used?

Since the CLB were introduced in 1996, increasing numbers of language training programs have begun applying the CLB in assessing and instructing ESL learners. Existing curricula and classes have been "Benchmarked" and new materials have been developed to assist teachers in applying the CLB. Across Canada, the CLB are used:

• in Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) programs in the Maritime Region, Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan
• in all British Columbia (ELSA) and Manitoba (MIIP) federal-provincial language-training programs
• in several provincially-funded ESL programs in post-secondary and private programs
• in Enhanced Language Training (ELT) programs across Canada
• in many TESL/TESOL teacher- training programs
• in employment and training programs to help determine articulation standards in order to set standards to facilitate access to numerous professional and trade programs
• in colleges and universities to understand the language proficiencies needed for admission
• in over 70 federally-funded national assessment centres

For more information on CLB Assessment Centres that support publicly funded language training programs see Assessment.