FAQ - Middle School
Middle School - Chinese Studies FAQ
The HKIS Mandarin language program develops students' language skills based on their linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Whether this is their first exposure to Mandarin or it's their native language, our two-track approach caters to all learners. Learn more about our program below.
Placement + Assessment
- What is the difference between MSL + MNN?
- How is a student’s level assessed?
- How are placement levels decided during transition years?
- What is the criteria for placement in MNN classes?
- Is it possible to move from MSL to MNN?
- How much Chinese language instruction will my child receive per week?
- Who can I contact if I have questions about my child’s placement in Chinese Studies class?
What is the difference between MSL + MNN?
How is a student’s level assessed?
Placement in the different levels of MSL and MNN follow a logical path. Students go from level 1 to 2, the 2 to 3 etc and this is reassessed at the end of each year, based on teacher's recommendation and student's results.
Our goal when it comes to level placement is identical to the one presiding to stream placement: ensuring that students are within a class that is right for them in term of progress and motivation.
In Middle School, formal assessments take place and throughout the year, the students' level is checked using multiple tools, in order to assess:
- listening comprehension
- reading comprehension
- oral skills: interpersonal and presentational speaking ability
- writing skills
How are placement levels decided during transition years?
At the end of each transition year, placement level in the next division is decided.
From Grade 5 to 6 and Grade 8 to 9, an external assessment takes place, the AAPPL (ACTFL Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages) which addresses the World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages through the measure of the following modes of communication:
- Interpersonal Listening/Speaking
- Presentational Writing
- Interpretive Reading and Listening
What is the criteria for placement in MNN classes?
Is it possible to move from MSL to MNN?
How much Chinese language instruction will my child receive per week?
Who can I contact if I have questions about my child’s placement in Chinese Studies class?
The first person to speak with should be your child’s current Chinese teacher through Unified Classroom/Schoology. Placement is never an exact science and an open discussion about the student’s demonstrated strengths and skills with their teacher should be a first start.
Chinese Studies contacts: click here.
Learning Support + Resources
- Is outside tutoring the only way to maintain and improve my child’s Chinese?
- Are Chinese Studies teachers available after school?
- Who can I contact if I have questions about my child’s Chinese Studies class?
Is outside tutoring the only way to maintain and improve my child’s Chinese?
Under no circumstances, no student should be in a position to require additional tutoring to be able to learn Chinese. However, there are students and families who wish to strengthen one or two skill areas by securing structured tutoring. At the end of the day, these choices are personal and should be made based on the family’s values and vision for their child. However, it should never be the case that a tutor is necessary to complete homework.