HSK Speaking Preparation Course Guide: Conversational Mandarin

What is the Purpose of the HSK Speaking Test?

The Chinese Proficiency Test, or HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi), is an international standardised exam that assesses and grades Chinese language proficiency. It evaluates the ability of non-native Chinese speakers to use the Chinese language in their daily, academic, and professional lives. Obtaining this official Chinese certificate is becoming increasingly popular, and is considered the gold star when it comes to learning the language.

These courses, which include conversational Mandarin, teach various levels of vocabulary based on the HSK outline and syllabus, and range from 200 to 3,000 words (depending on whether you've enrolled in the Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced classes). All video classes include sufficient exercises, clear explanations, a simple introduction, and encouragement from the professors, which help you learn Chinese in a fun yet efficient manner.

How are the Different Levels Broken Down?

•                  HSK Levels 1 and 2 are for beginners

•                  HSK Levels 3 and 4 are considered to be for intermediates

•                  HSK Levels 5 and 6 are for those with an advanced knowledge of the language

The HSK Speaking Test Outline

Beginner Level

●       Part One of this test consists of 15 items, and the person taking the test will be given recorded sentences. The aim is to repeat the sentences correctly with the right pronunciation and tone within four minutes.

●       Part Two consists of 10 items and the test candidate will have to answer questions that are put forth via a recording. They will have three minutes to complete this section.

●       Part Three involves writing up to five sentences for two questions asked. Those taking the test will have to complete this within three minutes.

Intermediate Level

●       Part One will see candidates repeat the sentence recordings of 10 questions in three minutes.

●       Part Two will consist of two questions that are based on an image. Test candidates will have to create a single sentence for the picture shown in four minutes.

●       Part Three will revolve around answering questions using the right sentence structure in four minutes.

Advanced Level

●       Part One will have three sections and will require the student to repeat the content of recorded passages played within seven minutes.

●       In Part Two, candidates must read a passage given to them in two minutes.

●       Part Three will require the candidate to answer questions in properly constructed sentences with the right pronunciation and tone in five minutes.

Test Scores and Passing Rate

Once you've completed the test, your test papers are subsequently mailed back to Hanban headquarters in Beijing (or submitted online if the test is internet-based). The exam papers are not graded by the test centres that conduct the assessments, so the results may take a while.

On your HSK score report, you'll see the individual scores for the three sections you attempted and one overall score, which tells you whether you passed or failed.

Your total score is the sum of your three section scores for Listening, Reading, and Writing, representing your overall performance on the test. The HSK test has a maximum score of 300 points (100 for each of the three sections). And the score required to pass the HSK test is 180 out of 300, which is pretty easy to achieve if you've prepared well.

On the other hand, the HSK speaking test has a total score of 100, and test candidates must obtain at least 60 points to pass.

How to Prepare for the HSK Speaking Test

At Linguabox, we offer a range of beginner, intermediate, and advanced preparation courses to help candidates get ready for the HSK speaking test.

The HSK Exam Preparation Kit from Linguabox is designed to breeze you through the process of passing the HSK Exam. The key to passing the exam is to memorise the specific vocabulary and grammar that teachers know will be assessed.

Fortunately, our instructors are top professionals in this industry who can also communicate in English and will provide you with expert assistance in preparing for the examinations.

The Preparation Kit will aid you in creating a study plan, completing mock examinations, and preparing for the exam itself.

We also offer personalised curriculums and school material (if requested) to make the experience as tailored for you as possible. So, register with us today for a learning-made-easy experience!