HSK 3 — Intermediate
Build on your HSK 1–2 foundation. 950 new vocabulary words, 81 new grammar patterns, and the dialogues to handle opinions, plans, past events, and richer everyday conversations.
How Our Lessons Work
Informed by university-level Chinese language pedagogy and Singapore MOE's principles for AI-assisted learning — every lesson is designed for active, scaffolded practice.
Dialogue-First Learning
Every lesson opens with a realistic conversation so you hear words in context before studying them individually.
Scaffolded Feedback
Practice questions give hints before answers — guided discovery helps you build intuition, not just memorize.
Interleaved Practice
Vocabulary, grammar, flashcards, and quizzes are woven together so your brain forms stronger connections.
Cultural Context
Language doesn't exist in a vacuum. Cultural notes explain why Chinese speakers say things the way they do.
Lessons
95 lessons across 19 units. Each lesson introduces 10 new HSK 3 words, plus grammar points, dialogues, writing practice, flashcards, and quizzes.
How each unit works
Every unit follows the same four-step arc — from a quick overview to a format-faithful exam.
- Step 1
Overview
A one-page tour of the unit's arc — the topics you'll meet, the new grammar you'll unlock, and the cultural context behind it.
- Step 2
Lessons
The core teaching surface — dialogue, vocabulary, grammar, writing practice, exercises, and the Mastery Mission. One lesson at a time.
- Step 3
Review
Pull every lesson in the unit back together — flashcards, mixed quizzes, and a mastery checklist so nothing decays before the exam.
- Step 4
Exam
A timed, format-faithful test on the unit — Listening + Reading + Writing (and Speaking on HSK 7-9). Practice mode or full Exam mode.
Clarity in Form and Experience
形象与体验Discuss how clarity manifests in different forms and experiences, from clear images to personal insights. Explore the ways in which appearances and experiences shape understanding.
Beneath the Surface
表面之下Discuss the fundamental truths and original facts behind appearances, exploring what is actually on top and what lies beneath.
Living in Reality
真实的生活Discuss the true nature of life, expressing vivid and profound experiences. Explore concepts of strength and reality, emphasizing how deeply one can understand their surroundings.
Simply Inevitable
简单必然Discuss concepts of certainty and simplicity, expressing ideas like 'it's only natural' or 'at least this much' in various contexts.
Seeing the Similarities
看似相似Discuss how things seem to resemble each other and highlight their prominent features, using expressions for comparison and approximation.
Getting to the Point
说到点子上Discuss how to make formal statements and clarify understanding, emphasizing concrete and objective details. Use phrases to express precision and delve into the essence of a topic.
Breaking Point
破碎的界限Discuss the concepts of loss and waste, exploring shortcomings and deficiencies in various contexts. Use words like 失去 and 缺点 to express challenges and the impact of destruction.
When Needs Clash
需求与困难Discuss the challenges of lacking resources and the difficulties that arise when needs are not met. Explore situations where you must choose between inconvenient options and face tough decisions.
Facing Pain and Danger
面对痛苦与危险Discuss experiences of pain and injury, the risks involved in accidents, and the fears that accompany dangerous situations.
Navigating the Unexpected
应对意外Discuss situations that are strange or bewildering, express curiosity about complex issues, and explore feelings of urgency and confusion in various contexts.
When Things Fade Away
渐行渐远Discuss the themes of loss and decline, from the slow fading of memories to the inevitability of death. Explore how to express feelings about errors and faults in life, as well as the gradual nature of change.
Embracing Wholeness
拥抱完整Discuss the concept of wholeness and perfection, touching on how each person contributes to the complete picture. Explore ideas of individuality within a collective, and how everything fits together.
Endless Possibilities
无限可能Discuss the idea of continuity and variety with phrases like '每种' (each kind) and '不断' (unceasing), exploring how different options persist and evolve.
Always Present
始终存在Discuss the concept of existence and the idea of emptiness, while exploring how certain states or feelings can be constant throughout time.
Unity in Diversity
多样中的统一Discuss how universal values and common goals can bring people together, highlighting the importance of collective efforts and orderly collaboration in various communities.
Beyond the Basics
不仅如此Discuss how to express additional ideas and emphasize not only one aspect but multiple factors, including comparisons and alternatives.
Supercharged Summaries
超级总结Discuss how to make the most of a situation, emphasizing the importance of being among everyone present and striving to be as automatic as possible in your efforts. Explore the concept of bilateral agreements and how to summarize outcomes effectively.
Strength in Persistence
坚持的力量Discuss how to maintain strength and determination in challenging situations, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and the ability to retain what matters most.
Grabbing Attention
引人注目Discuss how to grab attention and emphasize points in conversations, as well as ways to concentrate under pressure or when feeling nervous.
Overcoming Obstacles
克服困难Discuss strategies for overcoming challenges and the importance of unity. Learn to talk about replenishing resources and repairing what is broken.
The Power of Beauty
美的力量Discuss the beauty and greatness found in culinary delights, brilliant experiences, and the sweet fragrances of life.
Power and Fortune
力量与幸福Discuss the concepts of power, happiness, and fate, exploring how they intertwine in life and influence one's existence.
Celebrating Life's Victories
庆祝生活的胜利Discuss how to celebrate victories in life, share joyful moments, and reflect on achievements and results.
Unlocking Potential
释放潜力Discuss what makes a project effective and advantageous, explore its merits and advantages, and identify what is necessary to satisfy requirements and achieve perfection.
Embracing the Warmth
拥抱温暖Discuss the warmth of sunshine and peace, express joy with laughter, and explore themes of light and legality in life.
Pathways to Success
成功之路Discuss how to achieve success by leveraging your strengths and capabilities, while maintaining an optimistic outlook and focusing on reliable goods and nutrition that enrich your life.
Transforming Connections
变换连接Discuss how to arrange, adjust, and transform connections in various contexts, including personal relationships and professional networks.
Navigating Business Transactions
交易导航Discuss how to handle business transactions, manage procedures, and engage in various operations. Explore the processes involved in conducting and treating different business activities.
Working Together
携手合作Discuss how to combine efforts, cooperate with each other, and compare outcomes in various contexts like teamwork and projects.
Ties That Bind and Break
情感的交织与分离Discuss relationships, marriage, and divorce, as well as the importance of communication and agreement in personal connections.
Negotiating Success
成功的谈判Discuss the dynamics of meetings and negotiations, explore the importance of receiving visitors, and consider the impact of studying abroad on management practices.
Adapting and Applying
适应与应用Discuss how to adapt to new situations, apply suitable measures, and transport or import goods effectively.
Bridging Connections
连接桥梁Explore how to connect with others through gestures like shaking hands and patting, while discussing related topics like moving houses and investigations.
Guarding Against the Unknown
防范未知Discuss how to protect and prevent various risks, forecast future events, and prepare for tests or lessons. Engage in questioning and understanding the importance of defense in daily life.
Advocating Approval
支持与认可Discuss how to propose ideas, advocate for causes, and seek approval. Explore the importance of evidence and proof in supporting your arguments.
Trust and Assurance
信任与保障Discuss how to ensure safety and trust in various situations, from certificates and insurance to public security and guarantees.
Standing Against Change
对抗变化Discuss the concepts of resistance and withdrawal, including how to react to changes, cancel plans, or even retire from certain situations.
Deciding to Stop the Fight
停止争吵Learn how to indicate when to stop a quarrel, take note of important decisions, and settle disputes effectively.
Striving for Improvement
争取进步Discuss how to confront challenges, evaluate performance, and strive for personal or professional growth. Learn to talk about criticism, scoring, and the importance of making amendments.
Navigating Change and Identity
变化与身份Discuss the differences in gender and personality, explore various ways of life, and understand the degrees of change in nature and categories.
Exploring Distinctive Themes
探索独特主题Discuss various subjects and their unique characteristics, compare proportions of different amounts, and explore colorful content in conversations and tasks.
Building a Strong Foundation
打下坚实基础Discuss the importance of responsibility and necessary standards in various contexts, such as education and work. Explore how basic norms and provisions shape our requirements and expectations.
Navigating Conditions and Consequences
应对情况与后果Discuss how to classify situations and their consequences, determine the state of affairs, and understand systems based on specific conditions.
Meeting Standards and Shapes
合格与形状Discuss qualifications and relationships while exploring forms and reasons for decisions. Learn to express how standards influence group divisions and outcomes.
Navigating Climate Pressures
应对气候压力Discuss how theories about climate change impact our understanding of pressure and rational responses. Explore articles that examine how some solutions can or cannot be implemented.
Feelings and Aspirations
情感与志愿Explore the nuances of emotions and aspirations, discussing how feelings shape our thoughts and the significance of our impressions and notions.
Heartfelt Aspirations
心灵愿望Discuss your desires and hopes, share your experiences as a volunteer, and explore themes of compassion and individuality.
Embracing Individuality
拥抱个体Discuss your personal journey and determination in life, as well as the importance of being conscious and independent in shaping your own path.
Heartfelt Connections
真情连结Discuss the warmth of relationships with family and friends, express your passions, and share your enthusiasm for music and artists.
Creating Foundations
创造基础Discuss how to establish and create various structures, systems, and products. Use these words to talk about building projects, manufacturing processes, and the act of bringing new ideas to life.
From Ideas to Reality
创意成真Discuss the processes of creation and innovation, from inventing new products to the growth and maturation of ideas and concepts.
Unfolding Opportunities
展开机遇Discuss the concepts of development and entrepreneurship, including starting a business and exploiting resources. Explore how different countries progress and the unfolding opportunities in various undertakings.
Rising to New Heights
攀登新高峰Discuss your accomplishments and improvements in various areas of life, including personal growth and project development. Talk about how to raise standards and transform ideas into reality.
From Ideas to Action
从想法到行动Discuss how to plan and implement projects, share experiences from experiments and training, and explore the initial steps of starting something new.
Families and Figures
家庭与人物Discuss relationships within families, including parents and children, as well as various figures like doctors and opponents.
Game Day Excitement
比赛日的兴奋Discuss your favorite games and competitions, from soccer matches to literary contests. Talk about rankings, fan experiences, and the thrill of finals.
Hosting the Tea Service
主持茶会Discuss your goals and the groups you belong to, while enjoying different types of tea and fruit juice. Explore topics around representatives and the police in various contexts.
The Garden Contest
花园比赛Discuss the journey from planting seeds in the earth to enjoying drinks like coffee, beer, and red wine. Explore topics related to food, beverages, and gardening.
Decorating the Winning Bag
装饰获奖手袋Discuss health and diet with words like 血 and 糖, and explore travel with 行李 and 皮包. You can also chat about animals like 猪, 马, 牛, and 羊.
Mail and Medals
邮件与奖牌Discuss sending and receiving mail, including emails and stamps, while also exploring achievements like silver medals. You can express different perspectives with phrases like 'on the one hand' and 'on the other hand'.
Festival Lost and Found
节日失物招领Discuss the things that lie behind playthings, from foodstuffs to magazines, and explore topics like why we enjoy certain toys and the role of oil and cigarettes in our lives.
The Power of Groups
群体的力量Discuss the dynamics of different cliques and bands, and explore how teaching materials and diagrams can enhance group learning.
Craft Fair Showdown
手艺集市的较量Discuss the powerful imagery of fire and dragons, as well as the roles of barbers and brands in daily life. Explore surnames and their meanings while sharing stories of adventure and craftsmanship.
Wardrobe Essentials
衣柜必备Discuss your favorite shirts, jackets, and trousers, as well as where to store them on a clothes hanger or bookshelf. You can also talk about furniture like tables and the significance of railroads in your life.
Fashioning Comfort
舒适时尚Discuss your favorite clothing items like skirts and shorts, and explore the materials used in fashion. You can also talk about bedding choices, such as quilts and their comfort.
Voices of the People
人民的声音Discuss the essence of society and the role of ordinary people, exploring concepts like the Great Wall, cities, and the diverse crowds that shape the world.
Exploring Your Surroundings
探索周围Discuss the vastness of your local area, your hometown, and what lies inside and around you. Use these words to describe different regions and the essence of home.
Exploring Every Region
探索各地Discuss the unique characteristics of different regions, from the bustling cities in the east to the tranquil villages in the rural south. Share experiences about hotels and rural life across the northern, southern, western, and central parts of the country.
Navigating the Journey
畅游各地Discuss travel plans with a focus on itineraries, travel agencies, and various locations like theaters and marketplaces. Explore the intersection of public transportation and commercial spaces.
Under the Open Sky
在天空下Discuss the beauty of scenery and agriculture while exploring areas like customs and traffic police at the scene of events.
Global Connections
全球联络Discuss embassies, the United Nations, and the significance of National Day while exploring the modern world and its civilized interactions.
Who Belongs Here?
谁是成员？Discuss various roles within organizations, from staff and team members to landlords and citizens, while exploring concepts of nationality and community.
Counting the Costs
费用计算Discuss various costs like rent, tuition, and fees, as well as payment methods including cash and funds. Explore the significance of financial management and rewards like gold medals.
The Value of Currency
货币的价值Discuss the different currencies like the Renminbi and American dollar, explore ticket prices, and evaluate the value of goods and services.
Crafting Careers
职业之路Discuss various professions like actors, singers, and engineers, as well as the tools and skills needed in different industries and factories.
Building a Workforce
打造人才Discuss the dynamics of employment, wages, and the economy while exploring various occupations and the role of talent in the workforce.
Roles and Relationships
角色与关系Discuss various roles in education and family, such as instructors and family members, while also exploring practical topics like identity cards and homework.
Hurry Up and Move!
快来动起来Discuss how to hurry to a destination, the importance of speed in activities like running and dancing, and the need to act promptly in various situations.
Jumping to New Heights
跃向新高Discuss various athletic jumps like high jump and long jump, as well as movements such as going up, coming down, and reaching new goals.
Leading the Way
引领未来Discuss how to take initiative and guide others toward progress, using words related to leadership and direction.
Pushing Forward
不断向前Discuss how to make progress in life, whether by taking steps forward, moving to new places, or seizing sudden opportunities. Explore themes of advancement and the actions needed to navigate challenges.
Chasing Dreams in Flight
追逐梦想Discuss the pursuit of dreams and ambitions, the courage to dare new experiences, and the guidance needed along the journey.
Art and Culture Unveiled
艺术与文化Discuss the interplay between art, literature, and culture, while exploring themes of environmental protection and health.
Exploring Spaces and Expertise
空间与专业Discuss various types of spaces like bathrooms and houses, while also diving into fields of expertise such as technology and science. Engage in conversations about different departments and the specialists within them.
Skills for Global Stages
全球舞台的技能Discuss the importance of skills like diplomacy and military techniques in global events such as the World Cup, while also exploring practical topics like furniture and equipment.
Broadcasting to the Public
向公众传播Discuss how information is shared and made public through various forms of broadcasting, including live broadcasts and announcements.
Voices of Announcement
宣告之声Discuss how to declare news, report events, and record information using various media, including radio and sound recordings.
The Art of Observation
观察的艺术Discuss how to observe performances and the reactions of audiences, as well as the importance of listening and viewing in various contexts.
Voices in Concert
歌声与表达Discuss the power of singing voices and how they can express opinions at concerts or in speeches. Explore the roles of reporters and the importance of communication in sharing thoughts.
News Waves
新闻波动Discuss the latest news and media trends, explore how stories are transmitted through television and radio, and share your thoughts on popular serialized dramas.
The Art of Performance
表演艺术Discuss the vibrant world of performance, from TV plays and stage dramas to the rich tradition of Beijing opera. Explore themes of writing and consumption in the arts, and share experiences as a guest at cultural events.
Echoes of the Past
往昔回响Discuss memories and experiences from long ago, including what life was like in junior high school or significant events from the beginning of the year.
Time's Journey Ahead
时间的旅程Discuss future plans and timelines, referencing events from the past and present. Use words like '将来' and '至今' to articulate your experiences and expectations.
Moments Through Time
时光瞬间Discuss significant moments in history, commemorate important events, and reflect on the ages and eras that shape our understanding of time.
Timing the Moments
把握时机Discuss how to navigate various situations and events, whether in the short term or long term, while understanding the importance of timing and regularity.
Moments of Daily Life
日常时刻Discuss your daily routines, morning activities, and how you spend your spare time. Explore concepts of time, including how long tasks take and when things come to an end.
By the End of HSK 3
Listening
Follow connected speech on everyday, study, and work topics, spoken naturally at 160+ characters per minute.
Speaking
Pronounce all Band 3 syllables with correct tones. Express opinions, make plans, and recount past events in everyday and workplace conversations.
Reading
Read articles, notices, and messages at 140+ characters per minute, recognizing 2,222 words and 900 characters.
Writing
Handwrite 600 required characters at 18+ characters per minute. Compose short paragraphs, messages, and simple narratives.
Recommended Culture Reading
Language is inseparable from culture. These articles give you context that makes your vocabulary come alive.