Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2012-2013 (archived)

Module CHNS2012: Chinese Language 2B

Department: Modern Language and Cultures (Chinese)

CHNS2012: Chinese Language 2B

Type Open Level 2 Credits 40 Availability Available in 2012/13 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Chinese Language 1B (CHNS1012) or equivalent

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To build on the Chinese language skills developed in MELA 1012 in all four competencies: speaking, listening, reading & writing. To prepare linguistically and culturally for the year abroad

Content

  • The course will cover all the major grammar patterns of Modern Standard Chinese and include an additional vocabulary of approx 1,000 lexical items. Students will be introduced to more advanced written style including ‘real’ texts.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • A sound knowledge of the essential grammar of Modern Standard Chinese and an active vocabulary of around 2,000 lexical items. Understanding of different text types and the use of appropriate language in culturally sensitive situations.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Linguistic competence in the four skills of Modern Standard Chinese equivalent to CEF A2/B1 or New HSK Level 4/5, including the ability to understand written and aural prompts and communicate with effective responses orally or in writing, the ability to read extended texts in straightforward language with the help of a dictionary and the ability to formulate culturally appropriate responses in social situations.
Key Skills:
  • Enhanced linguistic awareness and expressive ability
  • Enhanced presentational and communicative skills
  • Enhanced cultural awareness
  • Use of hard copy and electronic language reference works

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Language classes, aural LL based classes, spoken language small groups, weekly formative tests and exercises, end of year oral, aural and written examinations

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Language Classes 84 4 per week 1 hour 84
LL Classes 21 Weekly 1 hour 21
Oral 42 Weekly 1 hour 42
Preparation 253
Total 400

Summative Assessment

Component: Written Examination 1 Component Weighting: 70%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written Examination 3 hours 100%
Component: Oral Examination Component Weighting: 15%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Oral Examination 15 minutes 100%
Component: Aural Examination Component Weighting: 15%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Aural Examination 1 hour 100%

Formative Assessment:

Regular classroom tests and weekly at home exercises


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University