Chinese
Courses
101. Introduction to Chinese
This course provides the first-time learner basic knowledge and skills in Chinese. We utilize the Pin-Yin system to enable us to recognize Chinese sounds. Next, an introduction to spoken and written modern Chinese. We also introduce written simplified characters.
There are three objectives for this class: speaking and listening, reading and writing, and Chinese culture. First is the speaking and listening skill. The hope is that students will use Chinese as a means of communication. Students are encouraged to take any opportunity to develop the speaking and listening skill. Next is reading and writing; by the end of the year, students will be able to read a short article such as a personal ad, a job announcement, or movie listings. For writing, students will learn to put into writing what they have already learned to express orally. The final, and perhaps most important, objective of the course is to gain an understanding of the wide variety of nuances of the Chinese culture.
102. Introduction to Chinese
A continuation of Chin 101.
201. Intermediate Mandarin Chinese
This is an intermediate level course for modern Chinese (Putonghua). The course builds on the work from the introductory Chinese course. Chinese phonics and basic grammar will be introduced through lectures, exercises and assignments. The course will concentrate on acquiring the ability to understand and produce Chinese at the paragraph level, such as factual description and narration in various content areas, as well as clear expression in intermediate level situations.
The course will also help students to develop their abilities to communicate in daily life. We will focus on daily usage, e.g. describing everyday activities and talking about experiences, etc. The supplemental curriculum may introduce course-related information about Chinese culture, customs, history, modern social life, and current events. For better understanding and practicing, multimedia materials will be used occasionally in the class.
202. Intermediate Mandarin Chinese
A continuation of Chin 201.