Professional Chinese Instructor for students of all levels

Elementary Mandarin Course This course serves as an introduction to Mandarin, which is the focus of most Chinese language programs. It offers preliminary teaching in reading and writing Chinese characters, as well as listening comprehension and speaking. Chinese history and culture, particularly as it relates to the development of the language, is also introduced in this course. Elementary Mandarin is usually presented as two complementary courses. Intermediate Mandarin Course The next level of Mandarin education continues from the themes and language structures begun at the elementary level, with an increasing focus on reading and writing Chinese characters. Heavier emphasis on grammar and idiomatic Chinese expressions occurs at the intermediate level. Students are asked to read a great deal from modern texts and literature written in Mandarin. Conversational exercises receive more focus at this level, as well. Like elementary Mandarin, intermediate Mandarin is most often offered in a 2-course format. Advanced Mandarin Course At the advanced or conversational stage, oral performances and conversations in Mandarin are at the forefront. Class work at this level is designed to expand student vocabulary and fine-tune speaking and listening skills. Speaking and reading speed, along with increased levels of reading comprehension, are other major goals of this level, which may be split into two courses. In addition to placing increased focus on student conversational skills, this course may take examples from Chinese television, radio and Internet sources to test comprehension. Cantonese Course In addition to Mandarin, the other major Chinese language, Cantonese, is taught in a majority of Chinese programs. Some Chinese language programs offer elementary, intermediate and advanced Cantonese courses that mirror the progression of the Mandarin educational tree. Others teach Cantonese as a single class designed to complement a Mandarin program. In either case, the standard 4-discipline curriculum is typically used, focusing on speaking, reading, writing and listening comprehension. Chinese Civilization Course This subject is often incorporated very broadly into basic Chinese language curricula; however, most programs offer the subject independently for more in-depth examination. This course explores Chinese history, culture, politics and religion, as well as scientific advancement, industrial progress, literature and philosophy. Some Asian studies departments offer a variety of individual courses in Chinese cultural topics that may include traditional drama, Chinese Buddhism and cinema. Unlike other Chinese language courses, Chinese civilization is taught in English and usually doesn't require in-depth knowledge of the language.