Classes in chn

CHN 1A Elementary Mandarin 5.0 units
Description: A comprehensive introduction to elementary Mandarin as a foreign language for students with no background in Mandarin. Emphasis is on listening, speaking and reading Mandarin as a medium of communication within a rich cultural framework, resulting in an active vocabulary of no less than 500 Chinese words and 100 phrases and idiomatic expressions. Writing and translation will be introduced. This course corresponds to one year of high school study. This course has the option of a letter grade or pass/no pass.

Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate basic oral proficiency in Mandarin.
2. Demonstrate reading comprehension of 300 targeted Chinese characters.
3. Recognize Chinese character structures and stroke order in Chinese writing
4. Interpret and articulate in Mandarin on simple topics of daily life.
5. Recognize characteristics of Chinese people and Chinese culture


CHN 1B Elementary Mandarin 5.0 units
Description: A continuation of Chinese 1A, an introduction to elementary Mandarin as a foreign language, this is a second level of elementary Mandarin. Equal emphasis is on listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will acquire an active vocabulary of no less than 1000 Chinese words, and 200 phrases and idiomatic expressions in rich cultural context. Mandarin will be the primary medium of instruction. This course has the option of a letter grade or pass/no pass. PREREQUISITE: CHN 1A or equivalent.

Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Construct a working vocabulary around activities of daily life.
2. Compose sentences using the 1000+ words learned and converse in learned topics correctly.
3. Read and write notes, short letters, paragraphs and short essays in Chinese characters.
4. Ability to respond and communicate, finding equivalent expressions in Chinese and translate if needed.
5. Demonstrate competency in the language equivalent to the advanced-low proficiency level based on current guidelines, e. g. the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).
6. Compare and contrast aspects of Chinese and western culture, e. g. students' own values with those of Chinese communities.