Introduction
IB Chinese B Paper 1 is unique because it doesn’t just test your ability to write in Mandarin — it tests your ability to write in specific text types. Whether it’s a diary entry, article, letter, or blog post, you need to follow conventions while also demonstrating vocabulary, grammar, and cultural awareness.
Many students underestimate the importance of text types. They think writing well in general is enough, but examiners want to see that you can adapt your writing style to different contexts and audiences. This guide breaks down the most common Paper 1 text types, shows what examiners look for, and gives strategies to master each one.
Quick Start Checklist
- Know the main text types: Diary entry, blog, article, letter, email, report, speech.
- Follow conventions: Structure, greetings, tone, and audience matter.
- Use thematic vocabulary: Tie your writing to the five prescribed themes.
- Expand ideas: Use reasons, examples, and consequences.
- Avoid common mistakes: Don’t ignore text-type conventions or forget conclusions.
- Practice variety: Prepare at least two examples for each text type before the exam.
Why Text Types Matter in Paper 1
- Examiners expect accuracy and conventions. Writing a diary entry like a speech loses marks.
- Audience is key. A blog post should sound conversational, while a formal letter must be respectful.
- Real-life relevance. IB wants students to use language in practical contexts, not just academic ones.
Common Paper 1 Text Types
1. Diary Entry (日记)
Conventions
- Date at the top.
- Informal, personal tone.
- Reflects feelings and thoughts.
Example Opening
2025年5月12日，星期一
今天我真的很累，但是也很开心。
Tips to Master
- Use emotional vocabulary (开心, 累, 兴奋, 担心).
- Reflect honestly — include both positive and negative feelings.
- End with a personal conclusion (我希望明天会更好).
2. Blog Post (博客文章)
Conventions
- Title at the top.
- Semi-formal, conversational style.
- Engages the reader directly.
Example Opening
大家好！今天我想和你们分享我的旅行经历。
Tips to Master
- Use rhetorical questions to engage readers (你们有没有这样的经验？).
- Add personal anecdotes for relatability.
- Use connectors for flow (首先, 其次, 最后).
3. Article (文章)
Conventions
- Title.
- Formal or semi-formal tone.
- Structured with introduction, body, conclusion.
Example Opening
科技在我们的生活中越来越重要，给我们带来了许多好处，也带来了一些挑战。
Tips to Master
- Present both sides of an argument.
- Use topic sentences for each paragraph.
- Conclude with a clear message (总的来说，我们应该合理使用科技).
4. Letter (信件)
Conventions
- Date and greeting.
- Formal or informal depending on audience.
- Closing phrase and signature.
Example Opening
亲爱的王老师：
您好！我写这封信是为了表达我的想法。
Tips to Master
- Formal: Use polite expressions (尊敬的, 此致敬礼).
- Informal: Use personal tone (亲爱的朋友, 祝你一切顺利).
- Always include closing.
5. Email (电子邮件)
Conventions
- Subject line.
- Greeting and closing.
- Concise and structured.
Example Opening
主题: 关于学校活动的建议
王老师，您好！
Tips to Master
- Keep language clear and professional.
- Use short paragraphs for readability.
- End with a polite closing (谢谢您的时间).
6. Report (报告)
Conventions
- Title.
- Objective, factual tone.
- Sections with clear subheadings.
Example Opening
报告: 学生对学校食堂的意见
根据调查，大多数学生希望改进午餐的选择。
Tips to Master
- Be factual, not emotional.
- Use bullet points or structured sections.
- Conclude with suggestions or recommendations.
7. Speech (演讲稿)
Conventions
- Greeting to audience (各位同学, 各位老师).
- Persuasive tone.
- Clear beginning, middle, and end.
Example Opening
各位同学，大家好！今天我要和你们谈一谈环境保护的重要性。
Tips to Master
- Use rhetorical devices (我们应该, 我们可以).
- Repeat key ideas for emphasis.
- End with a strong call to action (让我们一起行动起来!).
How to Prepare for All Text Types
- Create a checklist of conventions for each text type.
- Memorize useful phrases for openings and closings.
- Practice under timed conditions with different prompts.
- Get feedback on whether you followed conventions correctly.
- Rotate practice — don’t just write diary entries; try them all.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mixing up formats (e.g., writing a letter like an email).
- Forgetting required elements (date, title, greeting).
- Writing in the wrong register (too informal for a formal letter).
- Ignoring the theme — every response must connect to one of the five prescribed themes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many text types should I master for Paper 1?
At least six: diary entry, blog, article, letter, email, and speech. Reports are less common but worth practicing.
2. Do examiners penalize if I mix text types?
Yes. If the format doesn’t match the required text type, you lose marks in Criterion C (conceptual understanding). Always check the task carefully.
3. Which text type is easiest?
It depends. Many students find diary entries easiest because of the informal style, while others prefer articles for their clear structure. The key is being comfortable with all types.
Conclusion
IB Chinese B Paper 1 tests more than grammar and vocabulary — it tests your ability to adapt your writing to different audiences and contexts. By mastering diary entries, blogs, articles, letters, emails, reports, and speeches, you’ll be ready for any prompt.
Success comes from practice: knowing conventions, using thematic vocabulary, and expanding ideas clearly. With preparation, Paper 1 becomes one of the most predictable and manageable exams in IB Chinese B.
RevisionDojo provides sample text-type guides, model answers, and practice prompts that align with IB expectations. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to master every Paper 1 task with confidence.
