AP Chinese Language and Culture FRQ Practice

1. Cultural Comparison

Question:

You are asked to compare two cultural practices from China and the United States, specifically focusing on the importance of family in each culture. Discuss how each culture expresses respect for family members and how family dynamics influence daily life. Provide examples from both cultures to support your response.

Response Guidelines:

• Discuss the importance of family in Chinese culture, mentioning traditional values such as filial piety (孝顺, xiàoshùn) and the role of family in decision-making, education, and the elderly.
• Discuss how in the United States, family is also valued but may have a more individualistic aspect, with respect for family members being shown through independence and personal freedom.
• Provide examples from both cultures, such as Chinese New Year celebrations in family settings or American holiday traditions where families come together but may maintain more personal space or independence.
• Provide a conclusion that reflects a deeper understanding of how family culture is perceived and experienced in both societies.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  Response is well-organized and clearly compares the two cultures with relevant, accurate, and detailed examples. Both the Chinese and American practices are discussed thoroughly with a clear, thoughtful conclusion.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  Response compares the two cultures with good examples, though there may be some lack of detail or slight inaccuracies. The response reflects a clear understanding of cultural differences and similarities.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  Response provides a basic comparison of the two cultures with some relevant examples, but lacks depth or contains inaccuracies. It demonstrates some understanding but lacks clarity or specificity.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  Response provides a vague or incomplete comparison of the two cultures with few examples. Some major points are unclear or missing.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  Response is incomplete, disorganized, or inaccurate, with little to no relevant comparison or examples.
  Score: 1 point

2. Writing: Personal Experience

Question:

Describe a meaningful event or experience you had with your family or friends in China that has shaped your view on relationships. How did the experience influence your values and understanding of interpersonal connections?

Response Guidelines:

• Provide a clear description of the event, including when and where it happened, who was involved, and the specific actions or conversations that took place.
• Explain how the event impacted your view on relationships, particularly in terms of family and friends, and any cultural significance it holds.
• Discuss the values you learned from the experience and how these values reflect Chinese cultural ideals.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  The response is well-organized and provides a clear and insightful description of a meaningful event, demonstrating an in-depth understanding of the cultural significance of relationships. The response shows clear personal reflection and relates to Chinese values in a meaningful way.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  The response describes a meaningful event with clear explanations and reflects on the experience. It may lack some depth or cultural context, but the response is still organized and relevant.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  The response provides an adequate description of the event, but the reflection may be shallow or not clearly connected to Chinese cultural values. Some points are missing or unclear.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  The response lacks clarity, organization, or detail in describing the event or reflection. The personal connection to cultural values may be vague or missing.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  The response is incomplete or unclear, with little to no connection to the cultural context or personal reflection.
  Score: 1 point

3. Listening and Interpretation

Question:

Listen to a recording of a conversation between two Chinese speakers discussing the importance of studying abroad. After listening, answer the following questions in Chinese:

1. Why do they think studying abroad is important for personal growth?
2. What are some challenges they mention about living abroad?

Response Guidelines:

• The first part of your response should summarize the reasons the speakers believe studying abroad is important, including the idea of broadening perspectives, learning new languages, and understanding different cultures.
• The second part should address the challenges mentioned in the conversation, such as cultural differences, language barriers, homesickness, and academic pressures.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  The response accurately answers both questions with full details and correct interpretation of the conversation. Responses demonstrate a clear understanding of the content and reflect the cultural context appropriately.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  The response accurately answers the questions but may miss some minor details. The content is generally clear, and the answers reflect a good understanding of the conversation.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  The response answers the questions but lacks some detail or accuracy. There may be minor misunderstandings or omissions in interpreting the conversation.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  The response answers the questions but with significant inaccuracies or lacks clarity. The answers may be incomplete or unclear.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  The response is incomplete or inaccurate, with little to no relevant information from the conversation.
  Score: 1 point