Aims of the course

The aims for the Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language course (0523) are to:

Develop learners’ ability to communicate effectively in Chinese in a range of everyday and practical situations.
Encourage a deeper understanding of Chinese-speaking cultures, promoting positive attitudes toward language learning and cross-cultural respect.
Build transferable language skills that support learning across subjects, particularly in critical thinking and information processing.
Provide a solid foundation for further language study or careers where Chinese proficiency is an asset.

This course emphasizes practical communication skills and cultural insights, supporting students in developing proficiency and confidence in using Chinese in diverse contexts.

details of the course

Course Components:

Reading and Writing
- Students complete reading comprehension tasks and practice structured and directed writing, with a focus on using correct grammar and vocabulary.
- They learn to interpret written information from various sources and produce different forms of writing, such as letters, reports, and emails.
Listening
- Students develop listening skills through a variety of spoken Chinese materials.
- They practice understanding key information, main ideas, and details to respond accurately in various listening contexts.
Speaking
- Speaking tasks include conversation on familiar topics and role-plays to enhance fluency and confidence.
- Emphasis is placed on pronunciation, tone, and the ability to engage in spontaneous conversation.

The course is designed for students with some foundational knowledge of Chinese who want to expand their language abilities for practical communication and cultural understanding.

how is the course examined?

Paper 1: Reading and Writing (60%)

Duration: 2 hours

Content: This paper assesses reading comprehension and writing skills. Students answer questions on a range of texts and complete writing tasks, such as writing reports, emails, or letters.

Marks: 70 marks total

Paper 2: Listening (20%)

Duration: Approximately 35–45 minutes

Content: This paper evaluates students’ ability to understand spoken Chinese. Students listen to various recordings and respond to questions based on the information provided.

Marks: 30 marks total

Paper 3: Speaking (20%)

Duration: Approximately 10–13 minutes

Content: This component assesses speaking skills. Students complete a role-play and have two conversations on prepared topics.

Marks: 60 marks total

Assessment: Internally assessed and externally moderated.

entry requirements

To be successful on the course, students must have:

Proficiency in Basic Chinese Language Skills: Students should have a knowledge of spoken and written Chinese, allowing them to engage with basic texts and conversations. They should also be comfortable using Chinese characters and have some experience with Chinese grammar.

Listening and Speaking Ability: Candidates should be able to understand spoken Chinese and participate in everyday conversations on familiar topics. They should be able to communicate effectively in a clear and accurate manner.

Reading and Comprehension Skills: Students should demonstrate the ability to read and understand short texts, pick out key information, and identify main ideas.

Writing Ability: Candidates should have some experience in writing basic passages in Chinese, as well as organizing ideas coherently in written responses.

Please speak to your Mandarin teacher to discuss your suitability for Chinese Second Language

career pathways

Translation & Interpretation

Translator
Interpreter
Diplomatic Language Specialist

International Business & Trade

International Sales Manager
Import/Export Coordinator
Business Development Specialist

Tourism & Hospitality

Tourism Manager
Travel Consultant
Cultural Liaison

Media & Communications

Broadcast Journalist
Content Editor
Public Relations Specialist

Language Teacher

cambridge documents

0523_y26-27_sy Chinese second language.pdf