Study Guide

Learning outcomes

The student is able to use
- Chinese pinyin pronunciation
- simple sentences

Implementation and methods of teaching

This course is taught online.

The aim of Chinese 1 is CHINESE PRONUNCIATION. Participants will learn the complete range of the sounds of Mandarin Chinese and the tones.

Mastery of the pronunciation is achieved through exposure to the sounds, repetition and correction. Regular short quizzes enable students to test their grasp of material taught.

Timing and attendance

2 credits, equivalent to 50-60 hours of work, divided as follows:
• Zoom lessons : 28 hours
• Homework and study of material taught: 22+ hours

Learning environment

Dynamic and collaborative online learning environment that provides time and space for practising material discussed.

Student time use and work load

Period 3 ( Spring 2025), Tuesdays 8:30-10:00 and Wednesdays 8:15-9:00.
Regular attendance required.

Contents

CHINESE PRONUNCIATION. Students will learn Chinese phonetics (pinyin) and basic words and sentences.

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

Chinese 1 is for beginners who have no knowledge of Chinese at all. The course would also be useful for students who know some Chinese but who cannot pronounce the characters, and have difficulties with the tones.

Assessment criteria

Continuous assessment of pronunciation ability, plus regular short class quizzes for students to check learning.

Assessment scale

Approved/Failed

Assessment criteria: assessment scale failed/approved

Pass:
The student is able to pronounce the sounds of spoken Chinese sufficiently well so as to be understood, and know both phonetic systems taught well enough so as to be able to independently pronounce unfamiliar Chinese characters.

Fail:
The student has not learnt to pronounce the sounds well enough, and has not learnt the phonetic systems taught.