Science & Technology
What this unit covers
The topics below follow the published Chinese Lang course framework for Unit 4. Chinese Lang publishes no per-unit weighting, so there is no percentage to chase here.
Lessons in this unit
- The 被 (bèi) Passive Construction14 min · 3 objectivesForm passive sentences with 被 (bèi) to show something is acted upon · Identify the receiver, agent, and verb in a 被 sentence · Explain when a 被 passive sounds natural versus forced
- Talking About Technology & China’s Inventions13 min · 3 objectivesUse measure words appropriate to devices and technology · Build sentences comparing old and new tools with 比 (bǐ) · Discuss the Four Great Inventions of ancient China
What examiners penalize here
- On the exam, a well-placed 被 sentence can raise your register when reporting technology news: 新技术被广泛使用 (Xīn jìshù bèi guǎngfàn shǐyòng, “the new technology is widely used”). Just make sure the verb carries a complement or 了 so the passive feels complete.
- For the cultural presentation, connect an ancient invention to its global impact: 印刷术让知识传播得更快 (Yìnshuāshù ràng zhīshi chuánbō de gèng kuài, “printing let knowledge spread faster”). Linking Chinese technology to world history earns strong cultural-comparison marks.
Practice Chinese Lang
Our practice bank is drawn from across the whole course rather than filtered to one unit, which is closer to how the exam asks anyway — it will not tell you which unit a question is testing.
Questions about this unit
How much of the AP Chinese Language & Culture exam is Unit 4?
The Chinese Lang course framework does not publish a per-unit weighting, so there is no percentage to quote for Unit 4 and anyone who gives you one is guessing. Spread your time by where your own errors are instead.
What topics are covered in Chinese Lang Unit 4?
Science & Technology covers Innovation, Health, Media and Environment.
How should I study Chinese Lang Unit 4?
Read the 2 lessons below first — about 25 minutes — then work practice questions on these topics. Finish with practice questions and read the explanation for every one you get right by elimination as well as the ones you miss.
All 6 units of AP Chinese Language & Culture
Unit names, topics and exam weights follow the published College Board course framework for AP Chinese Language & Culture. AP® is a trademark registered by the College Board, which does not endorse this site.