Syllabus

Cambridge IGCSE™
Chinese as a Second Language 0523
Use this syllabus for exams in 2023, 2024 and 2025.
Exams are available in the June series.

Version 2
Why choose Cambridge International?

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for students aged 5 to 19 is independently certified as meeting the internationally recognised standard,
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Copyright © UCLES September 2020

Cambridge Assessment International Education is part of the Cambridge Assessment Group. Cambridge Assessment is the brand name of
the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which itself is a department of the University of Cambridge.
UCLES retains the copyright on all its publications. Registered centres are permitted to copy material from this booklet for their own
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internal use within a centre.
Contents

1  Why choose this syllabus? ..................................................................................................... 2

2  Syllabus overview .................................................................................................................... 5

Aims 5
Content overview 5
Assessment overview 6
Assessment objectives 7

3  Subject content .........................................................................................................................9

4  Details of the assessment .................................................................................................... 11

Paper 1 Reading and Writing 11
Paper 2 Listening 12
Component 3 Speaking 13

5  What else you need to know .............................................................................................. 20

Before you start 20
Making entries 21
After the exam 22
How students and teachers can use the grades 22
Grade descriptions 22
Changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025 23

Important: Changes to this syllabus

For information about changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, go to page 23.
The latest syllabus is version 2, published March 2022. There are no significant changes which affect teaching.
Any textbooks endorsed to support the syllabus for examination from 2020 are still suitable for use with this
syllabus.
Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

1  Why choose this syllabus?

Key benefits
Cambridge IGCSE is the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds, although it can be
taken by students of other ages. It is tried, tested and trusted.

Students can choose from 70 subjects in any combination – it is taught by over 4800 schools in over 150 countries.

Our programmes balance a thorough knowledge and understanding of a subject and help to develop the skills
learners need for their next steps in education or employment.

Our approach in Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language encourages learners to be:

Cambridge
learner

‘The strength of Cambridge IGCSE qualifications is internationally recognised and has provided
an international pathway for our students to continue their studies around the world.’
Gary Tan, Head of Schools and CEO, Raffles International Group of Schools, Indonesia

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Why choose this syllabus?

International recognition and acceptance

Our expertise in curriculum, teaching and learning, and assessment is the basis for the recognition of our
programmes and qualifications around the world. The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE
Chinese as a Second Language gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades
A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level
Chinese.

Cambridge IGCSEs are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of
academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and
Cambridge IGCSEs or equivalent to meet their entry requirements.

UK NARIC, the national agency in the UK for the recognition and comparison of international qualifications and
skills, has carried out an independent benchmarking study of Cambridge IGCSE and found it to be comparable to
the standard of the reformed GCSE in the UK. This means students can be confident that their Cambridge IGCSE
qualifications are accepted as equivalent to UK GCSEs by leading universities worldwide.

Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition

‘Cambridge IGCSE is one of the most sought-after and recognised qualifications in the world. It
is very popular in Egypt because it provides the perfect preparation for success at advanced level
programmes.’
Managing Director of British School in Egypt BSE

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Why choose this syllabus?

Supporting teachers
We provide a wide range of resources, detailed guidance and innovative training and professional development so
that you can give your students the best possible preparation for Cambridge IGCSE. To find out which resources are
available for each syllabus go to our School Support Hub.

The School Support Hub is our secure online site for Cambridge teachers where you can find the resources you need
to deliver our programmes. You can also keep up to date with your subject and the global Cambridge community
through our online discussion forums.

Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/support

Planning and preparation Teaching and assessment

•  Next step guides •  Endorsed resources
•  Schemes of work • Online forums
•  Specimen papers •  Support for coursework and speaking tests
• Syllabuses
•  Teacher guides
Support
for Cambridge
IGCSE
Learning and revision  Results
•  Example candidate responses •  Candidate Results Service
•  Learner guides •  Principal examiner reports for teachers
•  Past papers and mark schemes •  Results Analysis
•  Specimen paper answers

Sign up for email notifications about changes to syllabuses, including new and revised products and services at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/syllabusupdates

Professional development
We support teachers through:
• Introductory Training – face-to-face or online
• Extension Training – face-to-face or online
• Enrichment Professional Development – face-to-face or online
Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/events

• Cambridge Professional Development Qualifications

Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/profdev

Supporting exams officers

We provide comprehensive support and guidance for all Cambridge exams officers. Find out more at:
www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

2  Syllabus overview

Aims
The aims are to enable students to:
• develop the ability to use Chinese effectively for the purpose of practical communication
• form a sound foundation for the skills required for further study or employment using Chinese as the medium
• develop an awareness of the nature of language and language-learning skills
• promote learners’ personal development.

Content overview
Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language offers learners the opportunity to develop practical
communication skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Learners will be presented with a variety of stimuli that will build up their skills in reading and writing. They will
learn to select relevant details, understand the difference between what is directly stated and implied, and practise
writing for different purposes and audiences. Learners will listen to a range of spoken material, including talks
and conversations, in order to develop listening skills. In both written and spoken Chinese, learners will be able to
respond to factual information as well as abstract ideas. Learners will engage in conversations on a variety of topics,
and develop their skills in expressing their viewpoints with a degree of accuracy and clarity.

Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language will enable learners to become independent users of Chinese and
to use Chinese to communicate effectively in a variety of practical contexts.

Texts and questions are printed in both traditional and simplified characters on the question papers. Candidates
choose the form they prefer in the examination and may write their answers in either traditional or simplified
characters.

The Speaking test is assessed in Mandarin Chinese only.

Cambridge Assessment International Education is an education organisation and politically neutral.

The contents of this syllabus, examination papers and associated materials do not endorse any political
view. We endeavour to treat all aspects of the exam process neutrally.

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Syllabus overview

Assessment overview
All candidates take three components. Candidates will be eligible for grades A* to G.

The reading passages and questions are printed in both traditional and simplified characters on the question papers.

Candidates may write their answers in either traditional or simplified characters.

All candidates take: and:

Paper 1 2 hours Paper 2 Approx. 25–45 minutes

Reading and Writing 60% Listening 20%
60 marks 30 marks
Written examination consisting of five exercises Written examination consisting of four exercises
that test a range of reading and writing skills. that test listening skills. Candidates listen to
Types of task include: information transfer, short- recordings of short and longer spoken texts. Types
answer questions, multiple-matching, functional of task include: short-answer questions, gap-fill
writing and extended writing. sentences, information correction and multiple-
Externally assessed choice questions.
All listening material is recorded in Mandarin
Chinese.
Externally assessed

and:

Component 3 Approx. 10–13 minutes

Speaking 20%
60 marks
The Speaking test is conducted in Mandarin
Chinese.
The Speaking test consists of three parts:
candidates give a two- to three-minute
presentation, followed by a short discussion with
the examiner about the presentation, followed
by a short conversation with the examiner about
general topics.
Internally assessed and externally moderated

Information on availability is in the Before you start section.

Check the timetable at www.cambridgeinternational.org/timetables for the test date window for Component 3.
Check the samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples for submission information, forms and
deadlines for Component 3.

We will not allow some access arrangements for this qualification because they affect the assessment objectives.
Please contact [email protected] if your candidate(s) requires access arrangements.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Syllabus overview

Assessment objectives
The assessment objectives (AOs) are:

AO1 Reading
R1. identify and select relevant information
R2. understand ideas, opinions and attitudes
R3. show understanding of the connections between ideas, opinions and attitudes
R4. understand what is implied but not directly stated, e.g. writer’s purpose, intention and feelings

AO2 Writing
W1. communicate information/ideas/opinions clearly, accurately and effectively
W2. organise ideas into coherent paragraphs using a range of appropriate linking devices
W3 . use a range of grammatical structures and vocabulary accurately and effectively
W4 . show control of punctuation and character formation
W5 . use appropriate register and style/format for the given purpose and audience

AO3 Listening
L1 . identify and select relevant information
L2 . understand ideas, opinions and attitudes
L3 . show understanding of the connections between ideas, opinions and attitudes
L4. understand what is implied but not directly stated, e.g. speaker’s intention or feelings, guided by the speaker’s
tone of voice

AO4 Speaking
S1 . present information and communicate ideas/opinions clearly, accurately and effectively
S2 . develop responses and link ideas using a range of appropriate linking devices
S3 . use a range of grammatical structures and vocabulary accurately and effectively
S4 . show control of pronunciation and intonation patterns
S5 . engage in a conversation and contribute effectively to help move the conversation forward

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Syllabus overview

Weighting for assessment objectives

The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives (AOs) are summarised below.

Assessment objectives as a percentage of the qualification

Assessment objective Weighting in IGCSE %

AO1 Reading 30

AO2 Writing 30

AO3 Listening 20

AO4 Speaking 20

Total 100

Assessment objectives as a percentage of each component

Assessment objective Weighting in components %

Paper 1 Paper 2 Component 3

AO1 Reading 50 – –

AO2 Writing 50 – –

AO3 Listening – 100 –

AO4 Speaking – – 100

Total 100 100 100

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

3  Subject content

This syllabus gives you the flexibility to design a course that will interest, challenge and engage your learners.
Where appropriate you are responsible for selecting resources and examples to support your learners’ study. These
should be appropriate for the learners’ age, cultural background and learning context as well as complying with
your school policies and local legal requirements.

The skills covered in the syllabus are outlined below.

1 Reading

• understand public notices and signs (including timetables and advertisements)

• identify and select correct details from simple texts
• select and organise relevant information from a range of texts that are likely to be within the experience
of young people and reflecting the interests of people from varied cultural backgrounds, such as blogs,
brochures, emails, forms, imaginative writing, letters, magazines, newspapers and webpages
• identify some ideas, opinions and attitudes in a range of texts
• understand what is implied but not directly stated within a text, such as opinion, writer’s purpose and
intention
• identify the important points or themes within an extended piece of writing
• draw conclusions from an extended text and recognise connections between related ideas within a text

2 Writing

• communicate factual information, ideas and arguments in short and extended writing tasks in appropriate
and accurate Chinese
• respond to a written stimulus and use appropriate register and style/format for the given purpose and
audience, such as an informal letter/email, an article, a report or review
• use a range of grammatical structures, punctuation and vocabulary
• express opinions and use appropriate register/style
• select and organise information and ideas into coherent paragraphs and use a range of linking devices

3 Listening

• understand factual information and ideas from a range of sources, such as a recorded phone message, news
or weather report, travel broadcast, interview, dialogue, memoir or telephone conversation
• identify relevant information and select correct details from a range of sources
• identify ideas, opinions and attitudes from a range of sources and understand the connections between them
• show some awareness of what is implied but not directly stated, such as a speaker’s intention or feelings

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Subject content

4 Speaking

• communicate factual information, ideas and arguments

• use a range of appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures using suitable pronunciation and
intonation
• organise and link ideas with a range of appropriate linking devices
• give a short, clear presentation without a script on a topic of the candidate’s choice
• demonstrate competence in a range of speech activities, such as respond to questions on topics within a
defined range of topics as stated in the syllabus (for example, past and present schooling, future plans and
current affairs)
• take part in a conversation and demonstrate flexibility in dealing with new ideas and other speakers’
responses
• show a sense of audience

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

4  Details of the assessment

Paper 1 Reading and Writing

All questions and responses will be in Mandarin Chinese.

The reading passages and questions are printed in both traditional and simplified characters on the question paper.
Candidates may write their answers in either traditional or simplified characters.

Written paper, 2 hours, 60 marks

Candidates should attempt all questions.

For all parts of this paper, candidates write their answers in spaces provided in the question paper booklet.
Dictionaries may not be used in the examination.

The question paper is divided into five exercises, as follows:

Exercise 1 – Information transfer: candidates complete a form/notes template on the basis of information provided
in the question paper. The passage will not exceed 500 characters.
Assessment objectives: R1, R2, R3
Total marks: 8

Exercise 2 – Short-answer questions: candidates read a text printed in the question paper and answer a series of
questions that test their gist-reading skills and reading for detail. Some questions in this exercise will also test
implicit meaning. Questions require short answers. The text will be one of the following types: advertisement,
brochure, leaflet, guide, report, manual, instructions or newspaper/magazine article. The text will not exceed 650
characters.
Assessment objectives: R1, R2, R3, R4
Total marks: 12

Exercise 3 – Multiple-matching: candidates read a series of short paragraphs followed by a series of sentences, then
match each sentence to one of the paragraphs. The passages, taken together, will not exceed 750 characters.
Assessment objectives: R1, R2, R3
Total marks: 10

Exercise 4 – Writing: candidates write a short piece of functional prose, such as an email. A stimulus of short
prompts and/or pictures will be printed in the question paper. A purpose, format and audience for the writing will
be specified.
Candidates are required to write 100–120 characters.
Assessment objectives: W1, W2, W3, W4, W5
Total marks: 8

Exercise 5 – Extended writing: candidates write a longer piece of continuous prose. A stimulus of short prompts will
be printed in the question paper. A purpose, format and audience for the writing will be specified.
Candidates are required to write 250–300 characters.
Assessment objectives: W1, W2, W3, W4, W5
Total marks: 22

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Details of the assessment

Paper 2 Listening
All questions and responses will be in Mandarin Chinese.

The audio material will be provided in Mandarin Chinese only

Written paper, approximately 35–45 minutes, 30 marks

Candidates should attempt all questions.

For all parts of this paper, candidates write their answers in spaces provided in the question paper booklet.
Dictionaries may not be used in the examination.

Each exercise tests listening comprehension of spoken material (e.g. dialogues, interviews, conversations, news
items, public announcements, talks) provided as an audio material file that will be played in the examination room.
Candidates hear the spoken material for each exercise twice and appropriate pauses are included on the recording
to allow candidates time to read the questions and write their answers.

The audio material is controlled by the invigilator of the examination, not the candidate(s).

Centres should check the Cambridge Handbook for the year candidates are taking the assessment
for information on when the audio materials will be available and how to access the materials
www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Teachers/invigilators should consult the relevant sections of the Cambridge Handbook for details about room,
equipment, checking the audio material in advance and guidance on ensuring that candidates can hear the
recording clearly.

The question paper is divided into four exercises, as follows:

Exercise 1 – Short-answer questions: candidates hear a series of short spoken texts (e.g. travel announcements,
recorded phone messages, brief dialogues) and write short answers in response to six questions.
Assessment objectives: L1, L2
Total marks: 6

Exercise 2 – Gap-fill sentences: candidates hear a longer spoken text (e.g. conversation, interview, monologue,
formal talk) and complete gaps in notes/sentences printed in the question paper.
Assessment objectives: L1, L2
Total marks: 8

Exercise 3 – Information correction: candidates hear a longer spoken text (e.g. conversation, interview, monologue,
talk) and correct information in notes printed in the question paper.
Assessment objectives: L2, L3, L4
Total marks: 8

Exercise 4 – Multiple-choice questions: candidates hear a discussion between two speakers and answer multiple-
choice comprehension questions.
Assessment objectives: L1, L2, L3, L4
Total marks: 8

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Details of the assessment

Component 3 Speaking
Speaking test, approximately 10–13 minutes, 60 marks

There is no question paper for the Speaking test. The test will be conducted and assessed in Mandarin Chinese,
and must be recorded for all candidates. No other variety of Chinese will be accepted.

Dictionaries may not be taken into the test.

Speaking tests take place during a period before the main examination series (see the timetable for the relevant series).
A teacher/examiner at the centre assesses candidates using the Speaking assessment criteria grid (see pages 16–19).
After the tests, the centre must send the final marks, a recorded sample of the candidates’ performances and
completed forms for external moderation to Cambridge International before the advertised deadline.

Administration of the Speaking test

Further information about the administration of speaking tests is provided in the Cambridge Handbook for the
relevant year of assessment at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide. The forms for completion, information,
dates and methods of submission of the speaking test marks, and sample size requirements are available from
www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples. Further guidance is supplied in the Guidance for the administration of
the Speaking test document, which is also available from our website.

Internal moderation
If more than one teacher in your centre is marking internal assessments, you must make arrangements to
moderate or standardise your teachers’ marking so that all candidates are assessed to a common standard.
You can find further information on the process of internal moderation on the samples database at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples

You should record the internally moderated marks for all candidates on the Working Mark Sheet and submit these
marks to Cambridge International according to the instructions set out in the Cambridge Handbook for the relevant
year of assessment.

External moderation
Cambridge International will externally moderate all internally assessed components.

• You must submit the marks of all candidates to Cambridge International.

• You must also submit the marked work of a sample of candidates to Cambridge International.

The sample you submit to Cambridge International should include examples of the marking of each teacher. The
samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples explains how the sample will be selected.

The samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples also provides details of how to submit the
marks and work.

External moderators will produce a short report for each centre with feedback on your marking and administration
of the assessment.

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Details of the assessment

Structure of the Speaking test

There are three parts to the test:

Part 1
A two- to three-minute presentation by the candidate on a chosen topic

The topic of the presentation should be chosen by the candidate and must reflect an aspect, or aspects, of life in a
Chinese-speaking community or Chinese-speaking culture.

Note: A script of the presentation is not allowed.

Candidates may prepare a single ‘cue card’ in Chinese to bring into the examination room. This must be no larger
than a postcard, and contain a maximum of five headings to remind candidates of the points they wish to make.
Candidates may also bring in a limited quantity of illustrative material (no more than three or four items), which
may include maps, diagrams, statistics and pictures, but must not provide additional written support or a script of
their presentation.
Assessment objectives: S1, S2, S3, S4, S5
20 marks
Teachers/examiners use speaking assessment criteria – Part 1 Presentation.

Part 2
A four- to five-minute discussion with the examiner about the presentation, using spontaneous questions about
the presentation. The teacher/examiner should encourage full responses by giving candidates the opportunity to
explain and justify their opinions. Candidates are expected to give natural replies to questions.
Assessment objectives: S1, S2, S3, S4, S5
20 marks
Teacher/examiners use speaking assessment criteria – Part 2 Topic conversation.

Part 3
A four- to five-minute conversation with the examiner about general topics (see Topics for Part 3 of the Speaking
test on page 15). The teacher/examiner should encourage full responses by giving candidates the opportunity to
explain and justify their opinions. Candidates are expected to give natural replies to questions.
Assessment objectives: S1, S2, S3, S4, S5
20 marks
Teacher/examiners use speaking assessment criteria – Part 3 General conversation.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Details of the assessment

Topics for Part 3 of the Speaking test

At least two topics will be covered in the general conversation: one from Areas A–B and one from Areas C–D. The
candidate will not know in advance which topics will be covered by the examiner.

Topics must be chosen that do not overlap with the content of the candidate’s presentation.

Topic areas Examination topics

Area A Young people and education

Education and career School and education A1
Future career plans A2
Peer relationships Friendship A3
Peer pressure/conflict A4

Area B Society
Family relationships Generation gap B1
Young people B2
Health and fitness Healthy eating B3
Sports and exercise B4
Leisure activities Films and the media B5
Hobbies B6
Communication and technology New means of communication B7
Social networking B8
Learning technology B9

Area C The world

Geographical surroundings Urban and rural life C1
Travel C2
Home town and surrounding areas C3
Environment Pollution C4
Recycling C5
Global warming C6

Area D Cultural diversity

Life at home and in other countries Festivals and celebrations D1
Customs and traditions D2
Culinary diversity D3

Speaking assessment criteria grid

Guidance for examiners
You must award marks positively. In order to ensure that you reward what a candidate can do rather than penalise
mistakes or omissions examiners should start at the bottom of the mark scheme and work upwards through the
descriptors when awarding marks.

You should adopt a ‘best-fit’ approach for each of the assessment criteria. You must select the set of descriptors
provided in the mark scheme that most closely describes the quality of the work being marked. As you work
upwards through the mark scheme, you will eventually arrive at a set of descriptors that fits the candidate’s
performance. When you reach this point, check the descriptors in the level above to confirm whether or not there is
just enough evidence to award a mark in the higher level.

To select the most appropriate mark within each set of descriptors, you should use the following guidance:
• If most of the descriptors fit the work, then award the top mark in the level.
• If there is just enough evidence (and you had perhaps been considering the level below), then the lowest mark
in the level will be awarded.

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Details of the assessment

Speaking assessment criteria grid

Part 1: Presentation [Total: 20 marks]
Enter the separate marks for Content and Presentation [max. 10 marks], Vocabulary, Pronunciation and Intonation
[max. 5 marks], and Structures [max. 5 marks] on to the Working Mark Sheet.

Content and Presentation Vocabulary Structures

Knowledge of facts, ability Pronunciation and Intonation
to express opinion and raise
issues for discussion

9–10 marks 5 marks 5 marks

Full and well-organised coverage Uses a wide range of precise Uses a variety of complex
of the topic vocabulary generally accurately structures
Level 5

Ideas and opinions included as Pronunciation and intonation are Generally accurate
well as factual points clear
Lively presentation that sustains
examiner’s interest fully

7–8 marks 4 marks 4 marks

Good coverage and sound Uses a sufficient range of Uses some complex structures
organisation of the topic vocabulary, which sometimes and a range of simple structures
Makes relevant factual points lacks precision Errors do not impede
Level 4

with some ideas and opinions Vocabulary errors do not impede communication
Clear presentation that sustains communication
examiner’s interest Pronunciation and intonation are
generally clear

5–6 marks 3 marks 3 marks

Adequate coverage of the topic, Uses a limited range of Generally uses simple structures
generally organised vocabulary, but hesitates when accurately
Includes some factual points going beyond simple structures Errors occur when complex
with few ideas or opinions Vocabulary lacks precision but structures are attempted
Level 3

Presentation is slow and errors do not usually impede Any errors in simple structures
somewhat stilted though communication do not impede communication
examiner’s interest is generally Pronunciation and intonation
sustained sometimes lack clarity but
communication is not impeded

3–4 marks 2 marks 2 marks

Thin coverage of the topic, Uses a very limited range of Generally uses very simple
lacking organisation vocabulary which is sometimes structures, such as single-word
Few ideas or opinions inadequate to convey even responses
simple ideas Errors often occur and some
Mostly coherent but weak
Level 2

presentation that sometimes Pauses frequently impede communication

does not follow a logical Vocabulary errors often impede
sequence communication
Pronunciation and intonation
cause some communication
difficulties

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Details of the assessment

Content and Presentation Vocabulary Structures

Knowledge of facts, ability Pronunciation and Intonation
to express opinion and raise
issues for discussion

1–2 marks 1 mark 1 mark

Very thin and often irrelevant Uses enough words to convey Uses only very simple structures
coverage only very short pieces of Errors often impede
Level 1

Very little factual information, information communication

only vague ideas and opinions Pronunciation and intonation
Incoherent presentation cause frequent communication
difficulties

0 marks 0 marks 0 marks

No rewardable content No rewardable content No rewardable content

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Details of the assessment

Part 2: Topic conversation [Total: 20 marks] and Part 3: General conversation [Total 20 marks]
Enter the separate marks for Comprehension and Responsiveness [max. 10 marks], Vocabulary, Pronunciation and
Intonation [max. 5 marks], and Structures [max. 5 marks] on to the Working Mark Sheet.

This grid is used for both Parts 2 and 3 and should be applied separately for each part.

Comprehension and Vocabulary Structures

Responsiveness
Pronunciation and Intonation

9–10 marks 5 marks 5 marks

No problems of comprehension Uses a wide range of precise Uses a variety of complex

Responses are natural and vocabulary generally accurately structures
spontaneous even to unexpected Pronunciation and intonation are Generally accurate
questions and to changes in clear
direction of the conversation
Level 5

Able to present and defend a

point of view
Shows sustained ability
to initiate and maintain
conversation and to contribute
at some length

7–8 marks 4 marks 4 marks

Few problems of comprehension Uses a sufficient range of Uses some complex structures
Responds thoughtfully, and vocabulary, which sometimes and a range of simple structures
copes reasonably well with lacks precision Errors do not impede
unexpected questions and with Vocabulary errors do not impede communication
changes in direction of the communication
Level 4

conversation Pronunciation and intonation are

Reasonably forthcoming but generally clear
tends to follow examiner’s lead
Responds relevantly and at
length to questions which makes
frequent prompting unnecessary

5–6 marks 3 marks 3 marks

Understands discussion around Uses a limited range of Generally uses simple structures
basic situations and concepts, vocabulary but hesitates when accurately
but has difficulty with more going beyond simple structures Errors occur when complex
complex ideas Vocabulary lacks precision but structures are attempted
Some delay in response errors do not usually impede Any errors in simple structures
Level 3

Needs prompting and communication do not impede communication

encouragement to develop Pronunciation and intonation
topics but attempts to keep the sometimes lack clarity but
conversation going communication is not impeded
May rely heavily on seemingly
prepared responses

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Details of the assessment

Comprehension and Vocabulary Structures

Responsiveness
Pronunciation and Intonation

3–4 marks 2 marks 2 marks

Generally has difficulty Uses a very limited range of Generally uses very simple
understanding vocabulary which is sometimes structures, such as single-word
Responses to questions raised on inadequate to convey even responses
the majority of topics are limited simple ideas Errors often occur and some
Level 2

and brief Pauses frequently impede communication

Needs prompting and Vocabulary errors often impede
encouragement to go beyond communication
single-word responses Pronunciation and intonation
cause some communication
difficulties

1–2 marks 1 mark 1 mark

Severe problems of Uses enough words to convey Uses only very simple structures
comprehension only very short pieces of Errors often impede
Very marked hesitation information communication
Level 1

Limited responsiveness Conversation is limited and

confused
Responses are so brief
and imprecise that little is Pronunciation and intonation
communicated cause frequent communication
difficulties

0 marks 0 marks 0 marks

No rewardable content No rewardable content No rewardable content

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

5  What else you need to know

This section is an overview of other information you need to know about this syllabus. It will help to share the
administrative information with your exams officer so they know when you will need their support. Find more
information about our administrative processes at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Before you start

Previous study
We recommend that learners starting this course should have had prior contact with Mandarin Chinese at school
and/or in their community.

Guided learning hours

We design Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses based on learners having about 130 guided learning hours for each subject
during the course but this is for guidance only. The number of hours a learner needs to achieve the qualification
may vary according to local practice and their previous experience of the subject.

Availability and timetables

All Cambridge schools are allocated to one of six administrative zones. Each zone has a specific timetable.

You can view the timetable for your administrative zone at www.cambridgeinternational.org/timetables

You can enter candidates in the June exam series.

Check you are using the syllabus for the year the candidate is taking the exam.

Private candidates can enter for this syllabus. The accommodating centre must be able to make appropriate
arrangements to conduct and assess the Speaking test, and submit the required sample and paperwork to
Cambridge International for External moderation.

Combining with other syllabuses

Candidates can take this syllabus alongside other Cambridge International syllabuses in a single exam series. The
only exceptions are:
• Cambridge IGCSE First Language Chinese (0509)
• Cambridge IGCSE Mandarin Chinese (0547)
• syllabuses with the same title at the same level.

Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) and Cambridge O Level syllabuses are at the same level.

Group awards: Cambridge ICE

Cambridge ICE (International Certificate of Education) is a group award for Cambridge IGCSE. It allows schools to
offer a broad and balanced curriculum by recognising the achievements of learners who pass exams in a range of
different subjects.

Learn more about Cambridge ICE at www.cambridgeinternational.org/cambridgeice

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  What else you need to know

Making entries
Exams officers are responsible for submitting entries to Cambridge International. We encourage them to work
closely with you to make sure they enter the right number of candidates for the right combination of syllabus
components. Entry option codes and instructions for submitting entries are in the Cambridge Guide to Making
Entries. Your exams officer has a copy of this guide.

Audio materials
You should check the Cambridge Handbook for the year candidates are taking the assessment for information on
when the audio materials will be available and how to access the materials
www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Exam administration
To keep our exams secure, we produce question papers for different areas of the world, known as administrative
zones. We allocate all Cambridge schools to one administrative zone determined by their location. Each zone has
a specific timetable. Some of our syllabuses offer candidates different assessment options. An entry option code
is used to identify the components the candidate will take relevant to the administrative zone and the available
assessment options.

Support for exams officers

We know how important exams officers are to the successful running of exams. We provide them with the support
they need to make your entries on time. Your exams officer will find this support, and guidance for all other phases
of the Cambridge Exams Cycle, at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Retakes
Candidates can retake the whole qualification as many times as they want to. Information on retake entries is at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/entries

Candidates cannot resubmit, in whole or in part, coursework or speaking tests from a previous series. To confirm if
an option is available to carry forward marks for this syllabus, refer to the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries for the
relevant series. Regulations for carrying forward internally assessed marks can be found in the Cambridge Handbook
for the relevant year at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Equality and inclusion

We have taken great care to avoid bias of any kind in the preparation of this syllabus and related assessment
materials. In our effort to comply with the UK Equality Act (2010) we have taken all reasonable steps to avoid any
direct and indirect discrimination.

The standard assessment arrangements may present barriers for candidates with impairments. Where a candidate
is eligible, we may be able to make arrangements to enable that candidate to access assessments and receive
recognition of their attainment. We do not agree access arrangements if they give candidates an unfair advantage
over others or if they compromise the standards being assessed.

We will not allow some access arrangements for this qualification because they affect the assessment objectives.
Please contact [email protected] if your candidate(s) requires access arrangements.

Candidates who cannot access the assessment of any component may be able to receive an award based on the
parts of the assessment they have completed.

Information on access arrangements is in the Cambridge Handbook at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

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Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  What else you need to know

Language
This syllabus is available in English only. The assessment materials are in Chinese.

After the exam

Grading and reporting
Grades A*, A, B, C, D, E, F or G indicate the standard a candidate achieved at Cambridge IGCSE.

A* is the highest and G is the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ means that the candidate’s performance did not meet the
standard required for grade G. ‘Ungraded’ is reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate.

In specific circumstances your candidates may see one of the following letters on their statement of results:
• Q (PENDING)
• X (NO RESULT).
These letters do not appear on the certificate.

On the statement of results and certificates, Cambridge IGCSE is shown as INTERNATIONAL GENERAL
CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION (IGCSE).

How students and teachers can use the grades

Assessment at Cambridge IGCSE has two purposes:
• to measure learning and achievement
The assessment:
– confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and skills specified in
the syllabus[, to the levels described in the grade descriptions].
• to show likely future success
The outcomes:
– help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or which students are
more likely to be successful
– help students choose the most suitable course or career.

Grade descriptions
Grade descriptions are provided to give an indication of the standards of achievement candidates awarded
particular grades are likely to show. Weakness in one aspect of the examination may be balanced by a better
performance in some other aspect.

Grade descriptions for Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language will be published after the first assessment
of the syllabus in 2020. Find more information at www.cambridgeinternational.org/0523

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 Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  What else you need to know

Changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025

The syllabus has been updated. This is version 2, published March 2022.

There are no significant changes which affect teaching.

You must read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme.

Changes to version 2 of the syllabus, published March 2022

Other changes • Information about the Structure of the Speaking Test has been
changed so that references to the speaking assessment criteria are
correct for each part of the test. Please see page 14 for details.

Changes to version 1 of the syllabus, published September 2020

Other changes • We have changed references to a CD provided by Cambridge

International with the audio material for Paper 2 Listening to only
make reference to the audio material. This is to ensure that when new
technology for delivering the audio material is available the syllabus
remains correct.
• Centres should check the Cambridge Handbook for the year candidates
are taking the assessment for information on when the audio
materials will be available and how to access the materials.
• It is anticipated that CDs will still be available but there may be other
ways to access the material during the examinations series for this
syllabus.

Any textbooks endorsed to support the syllabus for examination from 2020 are suitable for use with
this syllabus.

Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 23

‘While studying Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International A Levels, students broaden their horizons
through a global perspective and develop a lasting passion for learning.’
Zhai Xiaoning, Deputy Principal, The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China

Cambridge Assessment International Education

The Triangle Building, Shaftesbury Road, Cambridge, CB2 8EA, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1223 553554 Fax: +44 (0)1223 553558
Email: [email protected] www.cambridgeinternational.org

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