Introductory description

This module will be offered to students who already have a good knowledge of Chinese including one year or more of intensive study or work in the native speaking countries, good A level, or those who have completed Learning Chinese 4 or equivalent levels. It aims to further develop linguistic and cultural competence in using Chinese in different social situations, and to enable students to live and work more effectively in the relevant countries. Students will also learn to reflect their own strengths, weaknesses and strategies in language learning. Simplified Chinese characters will be taught and assessed.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Communicative functions and grammar contents based on the materials used.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• develop competence in a broad range of complex and non-routine language tasks across a wide variety of contexts
• gather accurate information from authentic texts of a variety of registers with an appreciation of literary and non-literary styles
• become more proficient in using a wider range of register and style in speaking
• produce longer essays on contemporary social issues as well as write formal letters in an appropriate manner, using correct characters
• further awareness and appreciation of Chinese culture
• Critically evaluate texts relating to culture and engage where appropriate with scholarly debates

Indicative reading list

Teacher’s handout on the topics such as education, health, society, politics, youth culture, etc.
Other supplementary materials different sources e.g. newspaper and/or websites.

International

All modules delivered in SMLC are necessarily international. Students engage with themes and ideas from a culture other than that of the UK and employ their linguistic skills in the analysis of primary materials from a non-Anglophone context. Students will also be encouraged to draw on the experiences of visiting exchange students in the classroom and will frequently engage with theoretical and critical frameworks from across the world.

Subject specific skills

This module will develop students’ linguistic skills through engaging with primary materials in the target language.
Strategies for understanding gist and specific information
Intercultural competence
Strategies to communicate effectively both in writing and orally in Chinese

Transferable skills

Communication skills: writing and oral presentation, defending one’s point of view.
Intellectual skills: critical thinking, analysis.
Organisational skills: independent work, time management.
Interpersonal skills: flexibility, adaptability and the ability to work with others.
Digital skills