Edexcel GCSE Chinese specification (1CN0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel GCSE Chinese exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel GCSE Chinese specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel GCSE Chinese (1CN0) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
This GCSE Chinese qualification supports learners in developing effective communication skills in Mandarin for practical use and further study. It builds competence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing while promoting cultural understanding of Chinese-speaking communities. The specification provides a strong foundation for language acquisition through topic-based content, encouraging spontaneous use of language and accurate application of grammar. Learners engage with a variety of stimulus materials to support progression and confidence in real-world interactions.Subject content breakdown
Theme 1: Identity and culture
- Relationships with family and friends
- Daily life and free time: hobbies, music, sport, eating out
- Festivals and celebrations in Chinese-speaking communities
Theme 2: Local area, holiday and travel
- Describing town, region and country
- Travel and holiday experiences and preferences
- Planning and booking accommodation and transport
Theme 3: School
- School routine, subjects, facilities and opinions
- School activities and events
Theme 4: Future aspirations, study and work
- Further study and career plans
- Part-time work, work experience and ambitions
Theme 5: International and global dimension
- Environmental issues and sustainability
- Volunteering, fundraising and cultural exchange
- International events and campaigns
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Listening and understanding in Chinese
- Written exam based on recorded material in Mandarin
- Foundation: 35 mins (50 marks); Higher: 45 mins (50 marks)
- Section A in English, Section B in Chinese
Paper 2: Speaking in Chinese
- Internally conducted, externally assessed
- Foundation: 7–9 mins; Higher: 10–12 mins (plus 12 mins prep)
- Includes role play, photo-based task and conversation
Paper 3: Reading and understanding in Chinese
- Written exam: Foundation: 50 mins (50 marks); Higher: 1 hour (50 marks)
- Includes comprehension tasks and translation from Chinese to English
Paper 4: Writing in Chinese
- Written exam: Foundation: 1 hour 15 mins (60 marks); Higher: 1 hour 25 mins (60 marks)
Tasks include structured writing, open response and translation into Chinese
- All papers are available at Foundation and Higher tiers
- Mandarin is the language of assessment
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel GCSE Chinese isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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