If you are interested in learning Chinese and looking into international certification, you have probably heard about the HSK exam. However, many beginners are still unsure about what you learn in HSK 1, what level it covers, and how to study effectively for the best results. This article will help you clearly understand HSK 1 – the very first level in the international Chinese proficiency test system – so you can map out an effective study path and feel more confident on your journey to mastering Chinese.
What is HSK? Why Should You Study HSK?
HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is an international Chinese proficiency test organized by Hanban, under the Ministry of Education of China. The exam has 6 levels, from HSK 1 (the most basic) to HSK 6 (the highest), suitable for both students and professionals who want to study, apply for scholarships, or work in China. Studying HSK not only helps you gain an international certificate but also gives you a clear pathway to build a solid foundation in Chinese.
What do you learn in HSK 1? An Overview of HSK 1 Knowledge
1. HSK 1 Vocabulary
At the HSK 1 level, you will learn 150 basic Chinese words. These are common words closely related to daily life, perfect for complete beginners. Vocabulary topics include:
- Greetings: 你好 (nǐ hǎo) – hello, 谢谢 (xièxie) – thank you, 再见 (zàijiàn) – goodbye…
- Family: 爸爸 (bàba) – dad, 妈妈 (māma) – mom, 哥哥 (gēge) – older brother…
- Places: 家 (jiā) – home, 学校 (xuéxiào) – school, 商店 (shāngdiàn) – shop…
- Time: 今天 (jīntiān) – today, 明天 (míngtiān) – tomorrow…
- Numbers, colors, personal pronouns (我 – I/me, 你 – you, 他/她 – he/she)…
2. HSK 1 Grammar
Grammar at HSK 1 is very simple, mainly focusing on basic sentence structures such as:
- Simple statements: Subject + Verb + Object (e.g., 我爱你 – I love you)
- Yes/No questions: Add 吗 (ma) at the end of the sentence (你好吗? – How are you?)
- Questions with question words: 谁 (who), 什么 (what), 哪儿 (where), 多少 (how many/much)…
- Word order: Subject first, followed by time, place, verb, object (e.g., I go to school today: 我今天去学校)
- Negation: Add 不 (bù) or 没 (méi) before the verb (我不是老师 – I am not a teacher)
- Use of common measure words like 个 (gè), 本 (běn), 只 (zhī)…
3. HSK 1 Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing Skills
- Listening: Understand and recognize simple sentences about yourself, family, school, asking directions, introducing yourself, phone numbers, etc.
- Speaking: Communicate about basic topics, introduce yourself, ask and answer personal information, ask for directions, order food, go shopping, etc.
- Reading: Read short sentences, simple conversations, signs, and basic notes.
- Writing: Write simple words, phrases, and sentences; fill in personal information on forms, write short notes.
What Materials Do You Need for HSK 1?
To study HSK 1 effectively, you should prepare:
- HSK 1 Textbook: You can use “Elementary Chinese Textbook Volume 1” or “Standard Course HSK 1” (the bilingual English-Chinese edition is very easy to follow).
- List of 150 HSK 1 vocabulary words with Pinyin and Vietnamese/English meanings.
- Listening and speaking practice materials: Find accompanying mp3 files with the textbook or practice videos on YouTube.
- Grammar exercises and HSK 1 sample tests: Regular practice helps solidify structures.
- Chinese learning apps like Anihao for daily vocabulary and speaking practice.
Effective Study Roadmap for HSK 1 Beginners
To pass HSK 1, you can follow this study plan:
- Learn the Pinyin system (Chinese phonetic alphabet): Start by practicing pronunciation, identifying syllables, and tones.
- Learn the 150 HSK 1 vocabulary words: Divide them into small sets (5–10 words per day), combine with images and audio for better retention.
- Get familiar with basic grammar: Study by small topics and practice speaking simple sentences.
- Practice listening and speaking: Repeat regularly, use videos or real-life communication if possible.
- Do exercises and mock HSK 1 tests: Helps you get used to exam formats and time management.
- Practice writing Chinese characters: While HSK 1 doesn’t require handwriting, writing helps memorization and prepares you for higher levels.
How Long Does It Take to Learn HSK 1? Who Should Take HSK 1?
Generally, for beginners, it takes about 1–3 months to study HSK 1 depending on your daily study schedule and frequency. With steady and regular practice, you can easily pass the HSK 1 exam.
HSK 1 is suitable for:
- Those who are new to Chinese and need a study plan from the basics
- Anyone who wants an international certificate as a foundation for higher levels
- Students, professionals, and those who need the certificate for admission, scholarships, study abroad, or better career opportunities
Conclusion
What do you learn in HSK 1? Hopefully, through this article, you now have a clear understanding of what you learn in HSK 1, its content, and how to study effectively to achieve the best results. HSK 1 is the perfect starting point for your journey to mastering Chinese. Start today, study consistently, and practice regularly – Chinese will no longer be a challenge. Good luck and may you soon conquer HSK 1!