Chinese beginners: module 2

What is the course about?

This course will provide you with a good grasp of the basics of Chinese, both spoken and written in order to enable you to understand conversational Chinese at natural speed, with the confidence to respond appropriately when spoken to in different situations. The course will also introduce students to Chinese culture, customs, and traditions, providing them with a deeper understanding of the language and its context.

What will we cover?

Topics: days & dates and birthdays, telephone numbers and addresses, likes & dislikes
Grammar: Pronunciation and intonation practice. Talk about everyday topics in the present tense.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Describe regular routines
- Use numbers
- Talk about days and dates
- Describe objects & people
- Recognise 30-40 more characters
- Read simple sentences
- Practise correct Mandarin pronunciation and know the difference between the 5 tones.
- Have a basic conversation with someone.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Suitable if you have completed Chinese beginners module 1 (about 15 hrs of learning).

For further details of the specific foreign language skills required for this level, please see the languages self-assessment chart at the start of the languages section of our course guide, or at http://www.citylit.ac.uk/self-assess-your-level. You will also need to be able to respond to simple instructions and explanations, as well as read course documents, in English. You will need to be at ease with the use of numbers for daily activities (e.g. using money, telling the time, using the 24 hour clock, reading timetables). It would also be helpful if you had some knowledge of basic grammar terminology such as: a verb and a noun.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course is based on the communicative approach:

- active students’ interaction
- emphasis on speaking and listening skills
- pair and group work
- role plays
- use of realia, pictures and authentic material
- use of audio-visual techniques when appropriate

Please note, students are expected to participate in oral classroom activities and to do some homework as and when required.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

This course combines the tutor's own materials with content from Discover China Student's Book 1. Please check with your teacher before purchasing, as some tutors may or may not use this book in their lessons.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Chinese beginners: module 3. Please enrol as soon as possible as places cannot be guaranteed.