Demystifying the Scoring Rubric for English Translation in Postgraduate Entrance Exams

Understanding how your English translation is scored in postgraduate entrance exams can make a world of difference in your preparation. This guide breaks down the common questions and answers you need to know to ace this section.

In postgraduate entrance exams, the translation section tests your ability to accurately convey meaning between English and Chinese. The scoring criteria typically focus on accuracy, fluency, and grammatical correctness. While there isn’t a single formula, examiners look for translations that capture the original intent while sounding natural in the target language. Scoring is holistic, meaning minor errors can still cost you points if they disrupt the overall coherence of the translation.

Common Questions and Answers

1. How is accuracy evaluated in translation tasks?

Accuracy is a cornerstone of scoring in translation. Examiners assess whether you’ve faithfully retained the meaning of the original text. This includes not just literal translation but also understanding cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions. For instance, if the source text uses a cultural reference, your translation should either explain it or find an equivalent expression in Chinese. Inaccuracies can range from mistranslating key terms to altering the tone or intent of the passage. To ensure accuracy, always double-check your understanding of the source text before translating and review your work afterward.

2. What role does fluency play in scoring?

Fluency is another critical factor. A good translation should read smoothly in Chinese, avoiding awkward phrasing or unnatural sentence structures. Examiners want to see that you can adapt the source text’s style while maintaining clarity. For example, if the original text is formal, your translation should reflect that tone. Conversely, a casual source text should be rendered in a relaxed, conversational style. To improve fluency, practice translating various types of texts and pay attention to how native Chinese speakers express similar ideas. Avoid literal word-for-word translations, as they often sound robotic or unnatural.

3. How are grammatical errors penalized?

Grammatical correctness is non-negotiable in translation scoring. Even small errors, like subject-verb agreement issues or incorrect tense usage, can lower your score. Examiners expect you to follow Chinese grammar rules meticulously while preserving the original meaning. For instance, if the source text uses passive voice, your translation should appropriately convert it to active voice in Chinese if it sounds more natural. To minimize grammatical mistakes, review basic grammar rules and practice translating sentences with varying structures. Using grammar-checking tools can also help, but ensure your translations still sound natural once the errors are corrected.