Overview
Chinese writing’) is a group of related, but in many cases not mutually intelligible, language varieties, forming the Sinitic branch of the Sino-Tibetan language family. Chinese is spoken by the ethnic Chinese majority and many minority ethnic groups in China. About 1.2 billion people (around 16% of the world’s population) speak some form of Chinese as their first language.
Course description
This beginner’s course is designed for students who desire to study Chinese systematically. The course uses video-based material to introduce the language in real-life settings. Pinyin and simplified characters are used. Accurate pronunciation, tones, and grammatical expressions are the main focuses for the first semester and in second semester, students continue to develop their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. More culture and etiquette are introduced with the lessons.
Benefits
Studying anything has many advantages, and languages are no different. There are personal and professional advantages to be derived from studying them. Right now in the world Chinese is moving itself into a position to be the dominant language and cultural force for the 21st century.
- Knowing Chinese will allow students to compete effectively in the business environment of the future
- China is the most populous country in the world with over 1.4 billion people. Mandarin is spoken by almost one billion people. It is the most widely spoken language in the world. One out of five people in the world is Chinese
- China is one of America’s largest trading partners
- By studying Chinese, students will develop an appreciation for Chinese culture and history
- China is playing a major role in world affairs and will continue to do so.
- Learning a second language develops critical and creative thinking skills.
Learning outcomes
After studying this course, you should be able to:
- understand varieties of the Chinese language
- understand the sound system of Mandarin Chinese (pinyin and tones)
- understand simplified and traditional forms of Chinese characters and how they are combined together to form new meanings
- demonstrate an improved vocabulary and pronunciation related to names, nationalities, professions, age, daily activities, languages and ordering food and drinks
- demonstrate a cultural understanding of how professional titles are used to address people.
- understand how characters are combined together to form new meanings
Course Features
- Lectures 0
- Quizzes 0
- Duration 50 hours
- Skill level All levels
- Language English
- Students 68
- Assessments Yes