The Cambridge International A Level Chinese (9715)

The Cambridge International A Level Chinese (9715) is designed to develop advanced skills in Chinese language, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is aimed at learners who already have a strong foundation in Mandarin Chinese and wish to further enhance their proficiency. This qualification is suitable for students aiming for fluency in both formal and informal contexts, preparing them for university-level studies or careers that require strong Chinese language skills.

Key Focus Areas:

  1. Reading:

    • Comprehension of a wide range of texts including articles, essays, fiction, and non-fiction.
    • Interpretation and analysis of different styles of writing, including formal and colloquial language.
    • Understanding implicit meanings, viewpoints, and the structure of arguments.

  2. Writing:

    • Writing essays, letters, reports, and summaries in a clear and structured manner.
    • Expressing ideas and opinions in both formal and informal registers.
    • Using accurate grammar, punctuation, and a wide range of vocabulary.

  3. Listening:

    • Understanding spoken Chinese in both everyday and academic contexts.
    • Recognizing the speaker's tone, purpose, and key points.
    • Engaging with audio materials like conversations, news reports, and interviews.

  4. Speaking:

    • Engaging in discussions on a wide range of topics with fluency and confidence.
    • Presenting ideas logically and coherently in structured oral presentations.
    • Demonstrating clear pronunciation, intonation, and understanding of cultural nuances.

Syllabus Content:

The syllabus covers a broad range of topics to develop a deep understanding of the Chinese language in different contexts. The core areas include:

  1. Contemporary Society:

    • Social issues, cultural traditions, and lifestyles in Chinese-speaking communities.
    • Topics like education, health, employment, and environmental concerns.

  2. Cultural Heritage:

    • Understanding the history, literature, art, and music of the Chinese-speaking world.
    • Discussions around traditional festivals, ancient philosophical ideas, and contemporary cultural developments.

  3. Science and Technology:

    • Debates on the impact of technological advancements in Chinese society.
    • Ethical and societal issues arising from the growth of science and technology.

  4. Global Issues:

    • International relations, global economy, and the role of Chinese-speaking countries.
    • Topics like climate change, migration, and globalization.

Assessment Structure:

  1. Paper 1: Essay Writing (1 hour 30 minutes):

    • Students are required to write two essays (one from each section), choosing topics from different areas like contemporary society, cultural heritage, or global issues.
    • This paper assesses writing skills, including clarity, structure, and ability to present arguments.

  2. Paper 2: Reading and Usage (1 hour 45 minutes):

    • Comprehension questions based on reading passages.
    • Tasks that test grammar, vocabulary, and the ability to summarize.

  3. Paper 3: Listening (40 minutes):

    • Students listen to spoken Chinese and answer comprehension questions.
    • The listening material covers a variety of everyday and academic scenarios.

  4. Paper 4: Chinese Culture (1 hour 30 minutes):

    • A written paper requiring students to answer essay questions based on pre-studied cultural topics such as Chinese history, literature, or film.

  5. Paper 5: Speaking (15 minutes):

    • An oral examination where students engage in a conversation or discussion on prepared topics.
    • The oral component tests fluency, coherence, and pronunciation.

Skills Developed:

  • Advanced Language Proficiency: Fluency in understanding, speaking, and writing Chinese across a range of contexts.
  • Cultural Awareness: A deep understanding of Chinese culture, history, and contemporary issues.
  • Critical Thinking: The ability to form and express opinions on complex topics and current events in Chinese.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Confident engagement in discussions, presentations, and debates in Chinese.

Benefits and Future Opportunities:

  • University and Career Readiness: This course prepares students for university studies in Chinese or related fields like international relations, business, or cultural studies.
  • Career Opportunities: Fluency in Chinese opens up careers in international business, diplomacy, education, translation, and tourism.
  • Global Competence: In an increasingly interconnected world, proficiency in Chinese is an asset for global communication and engagement.

If you need help with exam preparation, essay writing, or any particular aspect of the syllabus, let me know!

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