Programmes & Qualifications

Cambridge International AS Level Chinese Language (8238)

Syllabus overview

Cambridge International AS Level Chinese Language (8238) helps learners to develop language proficiency and practical communication skills in Mandarin Chinese to a CFER Independent User level. The syllabus:

is suitable for learners working at a level equivalent to at least A2 on the CEFR
develops learners' ability in all four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
builds knowledge of vocabulary and grammar in the context of six areas covering both familiar and more general topics
encourages engagement with the culture and society of countries and communities where Chinese is spoken.

This syllabus replaces Cambridge International AS Level Chinese Language (8681). The last series for Cambridge International AS Level Chinese Language (8681) is November 2023.

Syllabuses

The syllabus year refers to the year in which the examination will be taken.

2024 -2026 Syllabus (PDF, 776KB)
- 2024 - 2026 Syllabus update (PDF, 213KB)

Syllabus updates

Summary of the changes
- This syllabus replaces Cambridge International AS Level Chinese Language (8681). The last series for AS Level Chinese Language (8681) is November 2023.
  
  We have redesigned this course to help candidates develop language proficiency to level B1 and B2 (Independent User) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
  
  Please see the 2024-2026 syllabus document for full details of what has changed between Cambridge Interntional AS Level Chinese Language (8681) and Cambridge International AS Level Chinese Language (8238).
  
  This syllabus is a standalone AS level syllabus. Candidates cannot carry forward any results from this syllabus to the new Cambridge International A Level Chinese Language and Literature (9868).
  
  What are the main changes to the syllabus?
  
  All elements of the syllabus have been redesigned to develop language skills at the Independent User level of the CFER.
  
  The syllabus now tests all four language skills. We have:
  - revised the assessment objectives to align closely to the CEFR
  - revised and updated the list of topic areas
  - identified the sub-skills to be taught and listed in the subject content section
  - introduced a grammar and structures list.
  What are the main changes to the assessment?
  
  The syllabus now has four papers, each testing one of the assessment objectives, Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Each paper is weighted at 25% of the qualification.
  
  Please see the 2024-2026 syllabus document for full details of what has changed in the assessment.
  
  When do these changes take place?
  
  The new syllabus is for examination from June 2024 onwards. Examinations are available in June and November.
Teaching and learning resources
- Coming soon
  
  We are developing a comprehensive range of resources to help teachers deliver this updated syllabus.
  
  We aim to provide a scheme of work and other relevant classroom resources. Example Candidate Responses will be available following the first examination in 2024. Visit the School Support Hub from June 2022 onwards for details.

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Important notices

Syllabus availability
- In the June series, this syllabus is available in zones 4 and 5 only. In the November series, this syllabus is available in all administrative zones. Check the administrative zone for your school.

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Programmes & Qualifications

Cambridge International AS Level Chinese Language (8238)

Syllabus overview

Syllabuses

Syllabus updates

What are the main changes to the syllabus?

What are the main changes to the assessment?

When do these changes take place?

Coming soon

Important notices

School Support Hub

Stay up to date