Introduction
IB Chinese B Paper 1 is often the first exam students face, and for many, it feels like the most daunting. Unlike multiple-choice comprehension, Paper 1 requires you to produce a full-length written text in Chinese. You’ll need to show mastery of grammar, vocabulary, and cultural awareness while following conventions for specific text types.
The good news? With the right preparation, Paper 1 becomes one of the most predictable exams. This guide breaks down everything you need to know: format, grading criteria, common challenges, and strategies to write confidently and score high.
Quick Start Checklist
- Exam length: SL = 1h 15m, HL = 1h 30m.
- Task: Write one piece from three prompts.
- Themes: Always linked to the five prescribed themes.
- Text types: Diary entry, article, blog, letter, email, speech, report.
- Grading focus: Language accuracy, message clarity, text-type conventions.
- Strategy: Practice all text types, expand ideas, and revise vocabulary.
- Biggest mistake: Ignoring conventions or going off-topic.
Format of Paper 1
- Number of tasks: One (choose from three prompts).
- Themes: Each prompt relates to one of the five prescribed themes (Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, Sharing the Planet).
- Text types: Students must follow the conventions of the required format (e.g., blog, formal letter).
Example Prompts
- Write a diary entry about a cultural event you attended.
- Write a speech encouraging your classmates to reduce waste.
- Write a blog post about the benefits of technology in daily life.
What Examiners Look For
Paper 1 is graded on three main criteria:
- Criterion A: Language
- Range and accuracy of vocabulary and grammar.
- Variety of sentence structures (simple + complex).
- Correct use of characters.
- Criterion B: Message
- Relevance and development of ideas.
- Clarity of communication.
- Ability to expand with examples and explanations.
- Criterion C: Conceptual Understanding
- Appropriateness of register (formal/informal).
- Conventions of the text type (e.g., date and closing in a letter).
- Awareness of cultural and thematic context.
Common Challenges in Paper 1
- Forgetting text-type conventions (e.g., missing date in a diary entry).
- Writing too little or too much — examiners want clarity, not quantity.
- Overusing simple sentences without showing variety.
- Misunderstanding the prompt and going off-topic.
- Spending too long planning and not enough writing.
Strategies for Success
1. Master Text Types
Each format has unique conventions. For example:
- Diary entry: Date at the top, informal tone, reflection of feelings.
- Blog post: Title, conversational style, engagement with readers.
- Formal letter: Date, address, formal greeting and closing.
- Speech: Clear introduction, persuasive tone, rhetorical devices.
Practice writing at least one example of each text type before the exam.
2. Expand Ideas
Examiners want depth, not short answers. Expand by:
- Giving reasons (因为…所以…).
- Adding examples (比如…).
- Explaining consequences (因此…).
3. Use Connectors
Make writing flow with connectors like:
- 首先, 其次, 最后 (firstly, secondly, finally).
- 另外, 而且, 但是 (in addition, moreover, but).
- 因此, 所以, 总的来说 (therefore, so, in conclusion).
4. Build Thematic Vocabulary
Organize word banks around the five themes. For example, for Sharing the Planet, learn words related to environment and sustainability.
5. Manage Time Wisely
- 5–10 minutes: Plan outline (intro, body, conclusion).
- 50–65 minutes: Write the text.
- 5–10 minutes: Proofread for errors.
Practice Tasks for Paper 1
- Write a speech encouraging students to exercise more.
- Write a blog post about your experience with social media.
- Write a formal letter to your principal suggesting changes to the school cafeteria.
- Write a diary entry describing a memorable family holiday.
Practicing a variety of tasks ensures you’re ready for any prompt.
Tips for SL vs HL
- SL: Focus on accurate grammar and vocabulary with clear structure. Depth is valued, but brevity works if well-developed.
- HL: Show wider vocabulary, more cultural references, and deeper analysis. HL students are expected to expand beyond personal anecdotes into broader social or cultural issues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the audience: Writing a speech as if it were a diary entry.
- Repetition of basic words: Overuse of 好, 大, 小. Use synonyms.
- Unfinished endings: Always include a conclusion.
- Overcomplicating sentences: Simpler, correct sentences score higher than long, incorrect ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should my Paper 1 response be?
There’s no fixed word count, but most strong responses are about 250–400 characters at SL and 350–450 characters at HL. Focus on clarity and completeness, not length.
2. Do spelling mistakes in characters lose marks?
Yes, consistent errors in writing characters can affect Criterion A (Language). Occasional mistakes won’t ruin your score, but repeated errors lower accuracy marks.
3. What’s the best way to prepare for Paper 1?
Practice! Write different text types, review teacher feedback, and memorize useful connectors and set phrases. Organizing vocabulary by theme makes it easier to adapt quickly in the exam.
Conclusion
IB Chinese B Paper 1 tests your ability to write effectively in Chinese — not just accurate grammar, but also clear communication, appropriate style, and cultural understanding. With practice across text types, thematic vocabulary, and exam timing, you can approach Paper 1 with confidence.
Remember: examiners value clarity, organization, and relevance over perfection. By focusing on what matters most, you’ll maximize your marks and strengthen your overall IB Chinese B performance.
RevisionDojo provides text-type practice tasks, sample answers, and vocabulary guides to help you prepare effectively for Paper 1. With the right strategies, this exam becomes one of the most predictable and rewarding parts of IB Chinese B.
