97101 Chinese Language and Culture 1

This subject is designed for students with no previous knowledge of Chinese. It enables students to meet their communication needs in everyday social interaction in China and other Chinese-speaking communities, not only by developing basic skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing, but also by developing an understanding of Chinese culture. By the end of this subject students are able to interact with native speakers in a simple and culturally appropriate way by making statements and asking and answering questions on very familiar topics. They understand common words and basic phrases concerning themselves, their families and their immediate surroundings, when people speak slowly and clearly. Pinyin, the official transcription system, is used as a guide to the pronunciation of the Chinese language, and students learn to recognise approximately 300 characters and read familiar names, words and very simple sentences. Students are able to write short, simple notes, messages or postcards, fill in forms with personal details and understand and appreciate aspects of Chinese culture.

Assessment: This subject has a combination of continuous assessment and final examinations for speaking, listening, reading and writing. Further details are available in the subject outline distributed in class during the first week of teaching.

Typical availability

Autumn semester, City campus