MANDARIN CHINESE I
This course is an introduction to Mandarin Chinese, the official
language of China. The emphasis will be on spoken Mandarin. Students
will learn how to handle everyday situations, explain their life,
family, interests, pastimes and more and they will also learn how to
inquire about the same. Although oral communication will be our focus,
learning to read and write simplified Chinese characters (and pinyin)
will also be an important part of the class. Together we will explore
many interesting aspects of Chinese culture and history. The textbook,
Huan Ying series: An Invitation to Chinese, introduces more than 280
words and phrases and 84 written characters. Appendices with
Chinese-English and English-Chinese “Words and Expressions” contain
pinyin, English, and traditional and simplified character listings for
words learned in the text. This textbook is in simplified characters.
MANDARIN CHINESE 2
This course is for students who, having successfully developed
strong basic skills, are ready to increase proficiency in oral
comprehension and in the speaking, reading and writing skills of
Mandarin Chinese. Readings are real-life dialogues emphasizing proper
use of Mandarin with the goal of developing vocabulary and fluency.
Written and oral precision will be emphasized. Authentic materials will
be studied. Culture content is incorporated into instruction. Students
can write short articles by either hand writing or typing Chinese
characters.