Chinese 1

Course Description

This course will introduce Chinese characters, pinyin, grammar, and culture. Emphasis will be placed on the acquisition of basic vocabulary, writing, and communication skills. Chinese holidays, lifestyles, and traditions will be introduced through textbooks, supplementary materials, and audio-visual aids. Students will learn about greetings, family, friends, home, meals, shopping, and more. The course will engage students in an exploration of both contemporary and historical Chinese culture by learning current and historical events. Students will learn about various aspects of modern Chinese society, including geography and population, ethnic and regional diversity, travel and transportation, climate and weather, holidays and food, and sports and entertainment.

Course Objectives

The Chinese 1 course enables students to develop an understanding of the countries and people who speak Mandarin Chinese. Students will apply effective strategies for language learning and experience various aspects of Chinese culture. Students will respond to and give oral directions and apply appropriate etiquette in various settings. Students will ask and answer simple questions and participate in guided practice conversations. They will learn common Chinese characters and phrases, such as those found in menus, signs, and schedules. They will comprehend simple spoken and written directions, read short narrative texts on simple topics, and write simple characters and phrases.

Student Can Do Statements

• Students can communicate with basic greetings and conversations.

• Students can recognize, read, write, and type some common Chinese characters related to introductions, including names, numbers, greetings, nationality, schools, hobbies, and family.

• Students can understand basic Chinese culture, including food, family life, education, geography, and travel.

• Students can understand key information about Chinese currency, and signs related to products, like fruits and groceries and know how to bargain when they go shopping.

• Students can talk about themselves, including their family, friends, pets, hobbies, class schedule, sports, activities, and future goals.

• Students can pronounce Chinese with proper pinyin and tones.

• Students can make appointments stating the date and time.

• Students can write simple notes describing some aspects of their daily routine.