Writing Strategies for IB Chinese B: From Planning to Proofreading

Introduction

For many students, IB Chinese B Paper 1 is one of the most intimidating parts of the course. It requires not just knowledge of vocabulary and grammar, but also the ability to produce a coherent, structured, and culturally appropriate piece of writing in a specific text type. Unlike multiple-choice comprehension, you can’t rely on recognition — you must actively create.

The good news is that writing is a skill that can be trained. With the right strategies — from careful planning to final proofreading — you can approach Paper 1 with confidence. This guide covers step-by-step writing techniques that help you write with clarity, organization, and impact.

Quick Start Checklist

• Plan first: Outline your ideas before writing.
• Use text-type conventions: Always follow the required format.
• Organize paragraphs: Introduction, development, conclusion.
• Expand ideas: Use examples, reasons, and consequences.
• Vary language: Mix simple and complex sentences.
• Stay thematic: Tie content to the prescribed themes.
• Proofread: Correct character errors and polish structure.

Step 1: Understand the Task

Before writing, carefully read the prompt. Ask yourself:

• What text type is required (diary, blog, letter, article, speech)?
• Who is the audience (formal/informal)?
• Which theme is it connected to (Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, Sharing the Planet)?
• What’s the purpose (to inform, persuade, reflect, argue)?

Misunderstanding the task is one of the most common mistakes.

Step 2: Plan Before Writing

Spend 5–10 minutes planning:

1. Brainstorm key vocabulary for the theme.
2. Choose 2–3 main ideas to develop.
3. Outline structure:
   • Introduction (set context).
   • Body (develop points with examples).
   • Conclusion (summarize and close).

This ensures your writing stays focused and avoids repetition.

Step 3: Write with Structure

Introductions

• Diary: set mood and context.
• Blog: greet audience and state topic.
• Article: introduce issue clearly.
• Speech: greet audience and announce purpose.

Body Paragraphs

• Use topic sentences to guide each section.
• Develop with reasons, examples, and comparisons.
• Keep each paragraph focused on one idea.

Conclusions

• Summarize main points.
• Add personal reflection or call to action.
• Never end abruptly — always give closure.

Step 4: Expand Ideas

Strong answers don’t just list facts — they expand ideas. Use these strategies:

• 因为…所以… (because… therefore…)
• 不仅…而且… (not only… but also…)
• 如果…就… (if… then…)
• 比如… (for example…)

These patterns add depth and show range.

Step 5: Use Connectors

Connectors make writing flow and show logical progression. Memorize a variety:

• Sequencing: 首先, 其次, 然后, 最后 (first, second, then, finally).
• Contrast: 但是, 虽然…可是… (but, although… yet…).
• Cause and effect: 因此, 所以 (therefore, so).
• Summary: 总的来说, 简而言之 (in summary, in short).

Using connectors naturally is a sign of strong writing.

Step 6: Vary Language

Examiners look for variety in sentence structures. Avoid only writing short, simple sentences. Instead:

• Mix short sentences for impact with longer, complex sentences for depth.
• Use rhetorical questions (你们有没有这样的经历？).
• Include idiomatic expressions (说一千道一万, 入乡随俗).

Step 7: Keep It Thematic

Every Paper 1 task connects to a prescribed theme. Make sure your vocabulary and examples reflect this. For example:

• Identities: talk about health, relationships, or values.
• Experiences: describe travel, school life, or hobbies.
• Human Ingenuity: debate technology or media.
• Social Organization: discuss education or community.
• Sharing the Planet: write about environment or equality.

Ignoring the theme reduces relevance marks.

Step 8: Proofread

Reserve 5–10 minutes at the end to review:

• Check character accuracy (朋友, not 朋有).
• Correct punctuation.
• Make sure text-type conventions are complete (date, greeting, title, etc.).
• Eliminate unnecessary repetition.

Proofreading can save easy marks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the plan: Leads to messy structure and repetition.
• Forgetting conventions: Missing diary date or speech greeting lowers marks.
• Repetition of basic words: Avoid overusing 好, 大, 小. Use synonyms.
• Going off-topic: Stick closely to the theme and task.
• Not leaving time to proofread: Simple errors drag down grades.

Practice Routine for Writing

1. Weekly text-type practice: Write one diary, one article, one speech, etc.
2. Timed practice: Simulate Paper 1 conditions with past prompts.
3. Peer review: Exchange writing with classmates for feedback.
4. Error log: Track mistakes in vocabulary, grammar, or characters.
5. Build phrase banks: Memorize useful connectors and idiomatic expressions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long should I spend planning vs writing?

Spend 5–10 minutes planning, 50–65 minutes writing, and 5–10 minutes proofreading. Good planning saves time in the long run.

2. Do examiners care more about grammar or ideas?

Both matter, but clarity of communication is key. Minor grammar errors won’t matter if your message is clear and well-developed.

3. How many characters should I aim for in Paper 1?

Strong SL responses are typically 250–400 characters, while HL responses are 350–450 characters. Focus on quality, not length.

Conclusion

IB Chinese B Paper 1 writing is a skill that improves with strategy and practice. By planning carefully, organizing ideas, expanding with examples, using connectors, and proofreading, you can write responses that meet IB criteria and impress examiners.

Writing in Chinese doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With consistent practice and smart strategies, Paper 1 can become one of your strongest components in IB Chinese B.

RevisionDojo provides model text-type answers, phrase banks, and practice prompts to help you move from planning to proofreading with confidence. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to excel in Paper 1.