Cambridge International Level 3 Pre-U Certificate in Mandarin Chinese (Short Course)
Qualification summary
Cambridge Pre-U syllabuses aim to encourage the development of skills that students require in their subsequent studies at university. This syllabus not only provides a solid grounding, at an appropriate level, in Mandarin Chinese but also nurtures the ability of students to undertake independent and self-directed learning and to think laterally, critically and creatively. This focus on independent thinking and study skills, combined with a strong subject base, means that Cambridge Pre-U promotes the development of successful students – equipped to succeed once they are at university
Cambridge Pre-U is offered as an alternative to current provision at 16-19. It has been developed in collaboration with schools and in consultation with universities and subject associations.
This syllabus aims:
• To develop the ability to understand Mandarin Chinese.
• To enable the student to communicate confidently and clearly in Mandarin Chinese.
• To form a sound base of skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and leisure.
• To develop insights into the culture and civilisation of countries where Chinese is spoken.
• To encourage positive attitudes to language learning and a sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations.
• To further intellectual and personal development by promoting learning and social skills.
Qualification details
OG - Other General Qualification
Accreditation start date:
Operational start date in centres:
For information on the approval of qualifications for funding in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, see the links to DCSF, DIUS, DCELLS, DELNI and DENI below.
When undertaking a qualification that does not appear on the governments' lists as eligible for funding for specific age ranges, users must be aware of legal requirements. Not all qualifications are suitable for all age ranges.
For further information on 14-19 qualifications offered in England, please refer to the DCSF
Section 96 website.
For further information on 19+ qualifications offered in England, please refer to the DIUS
Section 97 website.
For further information on Wales, visit the
DCELLS website.
For further information on Northern Ireland, visit the
DELNI and
DENI websites.
Botswana - Canada - Finland - France - Greece - Guernsey - India - Scotland - Spain - Uganda - United States
This syllabus aims to encourage the development of generic skills of independent study and research, and to promote critical thinking and self-directed learning – all of which are intended to provide for successful progression to Higher Education and employment. In addition, the syllabus provides deep learning in terms of knowledge and understanding that will provide a sound basis for progression to higher study in cognate subjects.
No specific job occupation
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12 Languages, Literature and Culture
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12.2
Other Languages, Literature and Culture
D1, D2, D3, M1, M2, M3, P1, P2, P3
The qualification is assessed using independent and holistic assessment.
The Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate in Mandarin Chinese (Short Course) is assessed through two compulsory papers. The assessments both take place at the end of the two-year course and a single grade is awarded.
Paper 1: Speaking is conducted and assessed by the centre and moderated by CIE. The examination will be conducted in Mandarin Chinese and has two sections. Section 1 requires candidates to research a topic related to the history, current affairs or culture of the Chinese world. They should be able to speak in Mandarin Chinese on this topic for about 2 minutes and will then be expected to respond to questions on the chosen topic. Section 2 is a general conversation covering Topic Areas listed in the syllabus. Candidates will be assessed on the content of their presentation and their ability to speak and understand the target language.
Paper 2: Chinese Culture is divided into two sections. Candidates are required to answer one question in English, to be chosen from either section. The recommended word length is 600-750 words and answers will be assessed for content and structure. Section 1 covers three prescribed topics in Chinese culture and candidates will have a choice of six questions – two on each topic. Section 2 covers Chinese literature and film and candidates have the choice of six questions – two on each of three prescribed books/films.
Further details about the schemes of assessment and the content of the course can be found in the subject syllabus, available on www.cie.org.uk or direct from CIE.
It is expected that this Short Course will require around 180 Guided Learning Hours. This is a notional measure of the substance of the qualification. It includes an estimate of the time that might be allocated to direct teaching or instruction, together with other structured learning time such as directed assignments or supported individual study and practice. It excludes learner-initiated private study.