Rationale and Aim

 A growing number of young people are interested in learning Chinese and discovering the culture and way of life of Chinese people. This short course in Chinese Language and Culture offers students an introduction to the language and culture of China. It provides students with a learning base in Mandarin Chinese which they can subsequently build on in their studies. They also learn about China and they understand and experience many aspects of Chinese culture which are essential to communicate effectively in Chinese. Students develop their communication skills, their ability to interact successfully with Chinese people and those from other cultures, and their capacity to be effective language learners. The focus is on understanding and speaking basic Chinese in everyday situations through active engagement in activities and through using digital media. The level of personal proficiency to be achieved in the short course is broadly aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) A1.1 for speaking and listening, with a lower level for reading and writing.

Students learn to become more self-directed in their learning and to identify what helps them achieve their goals.  Their progress is supported and accelerated by drawing on their experience of learning other languages.  This short course is designed to build confidence and competence through enjoyment and a sense of achievement in learning to speak and write Chinese. 

Aim

This short course aims to enable students to reach set basic proficiency levels in spoken and written Mandarin Chinese, develop their cultural and intercultural awareness, and learn to plan and evaluate their progress in learning Chinese.