Mandarin Chinese for Proficiency
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MLAC3186 | Modern Languages and Cultures | 3 | 40 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- MLAC3186
- School
- Modern Languages and Cultures
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 40
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This module is intended to further develop students' Chinese language to proficiency level and to expand their knowledge of Chinese language and understanding of Chinese society and culture through an introduction into various styles of texts on a variety of topics. Accuracy in grammar and use of lexical items are targeted and understanding in depth of the written language is another main objective. In addition, appreciation and production of different writing styles are taught and aimed for. Furthermore, learning materials from authentic sources are used to expose students to the language in real context in China. Topics covered include careers, job application and interview, Chinese views on families and marriages, gift cultures and society today, pressure and exercises, travel and places of interesting, Confucius and Chinese history.
The module focuses mainly on: 1. expanding the vocabulary on relevant topics; 2. grammar knowledge as appropriate for the level; 3. language functions such as expressing ideal situations, exercising choice and giving opinions; 4 understanding of authentic materials on the above topics; 5. productive skills for the above topics.
A single exam assessment will replace all failed assessment components at the reassessment stage.
Target Students
Available for students of BA History and Contemporary Chinese Studies, students of BA Modern Languages with Business (MLB), students of BA Modern Languages, students of BA Modern Languages with Translation (MLT) and students of BA Liberal Arts. This module is also available to students after being assessed by the module convenor. Students who have learned the language in other educational institutions must be assessed before registered.
Classes
- Two 2-hour seminars each week for 21 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 21 weeks
Assessment
- 10% Participation: Preparation and engagement.
- 15% Coursework 1: Produce a CV and cover letter in Chinese.
- 15% Coursework 2: Summary of authentic material to no more than half the source.
- 20% Oral Exam: Oral Exam at the end of the teaching in Spring semester.
- 40% Exam 1 (2-hour): Exam to include reading comprehension and a piece of written work in the target language during the exam period in Spring Semester. Students type their answers using Chinese simplified IME.
Assessed in both autumn & spring semest
Educational Aims
This module aims to take students to a level of proficiency approximately commensurate with B2/C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference. It also aims to expand their knowledge of the language through an introduction into various styles of texts on a variety of topics. Accuracy in grammar and use of lexical items are targeted and understanding in depth of the written language is another main objectives. In addition, appreciation and production of different styles and registers of writing are taught and aimed for. Furthermore, learning materials from authentic sources are used to expose students to the language in real use in areas of Chinese Studies and better understanding of Chinese society and culture.Learning Outcomes
A: Knowledge and understanding
• Students are expected to reach B2/C1 of the CEFR by the end of the year.
• The lexis, structure and functions of Chinese at proficiency level;
• Situational constraints, pragmatics and registers at the above level;
• Textual aspects at the above level;
• Cultural background relevant to the understanding of the above.
• Understand Chinese society and job market more comprehensively.
B. Intellectual skills:
• Ability to assess appropriateness of lexical, structural and functional solutions to linguistic problems;
• Ability to infer and construct intentional, situational and cultural context from textual input;
• Cross-cultural ability by comparing and contracting Chinese culture and society with others;
• Ability to summarise or paraphrase a piece of information with Chinese to English or from English to Chinese;
• Ability to write CV and cover letter in Chinese language;
• Basic translation skills in translating the Chinese material into English or English material into Chinese;
C. Professional skills:
• Read the target languages in different registers (and spot the differences);
• Write effectively in the target languages using appropriate vocabulary for a variety of purposes;
• Comprehend and create linguistic content appropriate to a range of text types, and topics;
• Master the productive and receptive skills of the target language at the relevant level;
• Enhance the Cross-cultural awareness;
D. Transferable skills:
• Organise and manage time, schedule tasks and meet deadlines;
• Write and think productively under pressure (in examination conditions);
• Work independently as well as in groups and teams collaboratively;
• Improve the digital proficiency by identifying and interacting with different digital resources and platforms through learning, communication and presentation;
• Increase problem solving skills;
• Increase self-evaluation and action planning ability based on feedback.
• Improve employability skills.