Problem---help please!!

Colleges and Universities A-Z Claremont McKenna College
1

<p>How much would a failing grade in Chinese speaking in Year 11 affect my chances? I got an "F" in speaking in Chinese on my Year 11 transcript, but my overall Chinese grade was a pass (like a C or D). Later, I got an overall B in Chinese in the HKCEE (a Hong Kong public exam after 5 years of secondary education), with As in reading and writing, C in speaking, and E (still a pass) in listening--my grades in different components of the Chinese exam were very uneven. Now, as I'm doing the IB, I have a 7 in Chinese--the highest grade in the system. If it makes a difference, Chinese is my native language.</p>

<p>As for class rank, I was definitely in the top 10% (I was in the top 3-4%, actually) in my previous high school. The F in Chinese speaking in Year 11 was something of an aberration (and actually quite a number of us failed it that year). As for now, my current thigh school does not rank students, so I'm not sure what percentage I'm in, but I'm placed on the Honor Roll. My latest progress report (Year 13) indicates I have 40 points out of 42 (IB, only the 6 subjects without the Extended Essay and ToK).</p>

<p>Now, do you guys think the F in Chinese speaking in Year 11 will have a serious impact on my chances? Thanks!</p>

2

<p>They are looking at the applicant holistically, not just your grade in your Chinese class, so I would guess no. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, so if your other grades are fine, I don’t see the problem. I’m sure we all once had instances with bad teachers, missed tests, lack of interest in the subject, ex.
If it makes you feel any better, I once knew a girl who failed photography at my school, a very easy and effortless class, with an F. She now attends USC.</p>