The testing system, generally called “3+X,” has been used in such exams in more than 10 cities.

Under the new testing method, students are required to take tests in three subjects, Chinese, mathematics and English. The “X” stands for an additional exam, which is determined by which branch (arts or sciences) a student plans to pursue at university.

For students who intend to major in the arts, the additional exam tests their knowledge of politics, history and geography in one test. Students pursuing sciences are examined on physics, chemistry and biology.

An English listening test is also required of all applicants. Previously, students were required to sit five exams. Instead of the “X” test, arts students would take separate examinations for history and politics and science students would take separate exams for physics and chemistry.

The new testing method aims to promote quality-oriented education in senior schools, said Geng Xuechao, president of the Beijing Education and Testing Institution.

According to Geng, the tests are designed to test comprehensive knowledge in several subjects. Students who excel in one subject but do poorly in another are unlikely to score high.

Geng said the test for next year’s college entrance examination in Beijing will be different from the papers used in other parts of the country. The testing questions will be designed for students of Beijing who have a relatively high educational level compared with other parts of the nation.

Aiming to reach the same educational level as capital cities in moderately developed countries, Beijing is striving to become a leading city in popularizing higher education, Geng said.

(chinadaily.com.cn 09/12/2001