Chinese

Chinese

Course Length

Two years (or one year depending on individual circumstances).

The course

The Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9-1) in Chinese (Mandarin only) assesses four key language skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. It is structured into four externally examined papers, with separate Foundation (grades 1-5) and Higher (grades 4-9) tiers. The exam covers topics on personal life, school, local area, and future work/culture.

What skills do I need?

Edexcel GCSE Chinese (9-1) is suitable for learners with prior knowledge, typically focusing on developing proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing across topics like family, hobbies, and school. It is designed for students with varying proficiency levels in Mandarin, offering Foundation (grades 1-5) and Higher tiers (grades 4-9). Candidates must take all four components— listening, speaking, reading, and writing—in the same series.

How is the course assessed?

Assessment structure:

• Paper 1: Listening (25%) – Understanding spoken Chinese, including short/long recordings.
• Paper 2: Speaking (25%) – Conducted by teachers and externally marked, consisting of a role-play, picture description, and conversation.
• Paper 3: Reading (25%) – Understanding written texts, including translation from Chinese into English.
• Paper 4: Writing (25%) – Producing written Chinese, including translation from English into Chinese.

Reading

Edexcel GCSE Chinese (9-1) Student Book New Edition. Published by Pearson, ISBN 9781292210841. A Chinese/English dictionary is not provided but is essential. Please note that dictionaries are not allowed in the exams.

Exam Board and Specification Codes

The Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9-1) in Chinese (spoken Mandarin only) specification code is 1CN0.