And the results are in from my HSK 3 test, surprisingly quickly since they say it would take 45 days to issue them. Anyway, I managed to hit score 246 out of a possible 300, which is higher than the average of 234.3, though I’m not sure if that’s the average of the group or the typical result for test takers.
To translate the above graphic:
- Writing = 76 (my score), 76.8 (average)
- Listening = 93 (my score), 85.2 (average)
- Reading = 77 (my score), 72.3 (average)
- For a total score of 246 or about 82%, with the average being 234.3, or 78.1%. In order to “pass” one needs to score 60% or higher.
So I’m slightly above average at this point which, although makes me glad, also slightly disappoints me. I know there were a few questions that I probably got wrong but I should have gotten right. But so it goes with just about any test. I should be able to do better though I’m told that it can be quite a jump to HSK 4.
I’ve written about my study methods in a previous post and at this moment I don’t think I’ll change anything just yet. I have received a few other textbooks from colleagues who said they helped in learning the language. One in particular is called Rapid Literacy in Chinese by Zhang Pengpeng. The book teaches the first 800 most common characters and about 1300 common words in 24 basic sentences. I have yet to commit to the book but it looks as though it will be a useful addition to my arsenal as I try to get my reading and writing up.
Though I don’t think it will be a problem, I’ve met lots of other expats and colleagues who hit HSK 4 and then stopped working on their language skills. I can see why since by this level one has already developed some ability to function in the language, so it doesn’t always make sense to keep studying dry grammar texts. Further, by HSK 4, most would probably have a girlfriend or boyfriend so the need and want to work on the language might also diminish.
However, despite this “HSK 4 lull”, I’m looking ahead at my schedule and thinking it won’t be about motivation for me, it’ll be about staying on the pace I’ve set for myself. I’ve already counted the days until my trip to Taiwan before which I want to have finished the first ten chapters of Level 4. As of right now, I might not make that target. That’s okay, I can live with that as long as I’m able to finish the textbooks completely by the end of December of beginning of January. That’s the target, that’s the goal, that’s what I’m going to do.