Module CFLS1C11: Chinese Stage 1

Department: Centre for Foreign Language Study

CFLS1C11: Chinese Stage 1

Prerequisites

• No language qualification in Chinese and no prior study or knowledge of Chinese. This module is intended for beginners or near beginners in the study of the Mandarin Chinese language. In borderline cases, consultation with the module convenor is required to determine the appropriate level.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• Any language module offered as part of programmes BA Modern Languages and Cultures and BA Chinese Studies.

Aims

• To introduce the Chinese Language in the four core language skills, i.e., listening, speaking, reading and writing, and an introduction to the basic grammatical structures of the target language.
• To encourage a positive and confident attitude towards language learning.
• To develop and apply meta language and learning techniques appropriate to undergraduate level study.
• To provide a linguistic platform for communicative competence in Chinese.
• To promote cultural awareness.

Content

• The module is designed to provide a sound platform for foreign language acquisition by helping students to understand the core structure of the Chinese language through the study of grammar.
• Classes will be used to introduce and practise new vocabulary through interactive language exercises developing students’ independence and fluency at an introductory level.
• Guided and independent self-study will be an important element in order to achieve maximum exposure to the target language and to accelerate students’ learning pace.
• Cultural awareness will be developed through the study of selected background material.
• Functional topics may include:
• Talking about themselves, family, and other acquaintances.
• Dealing with everyday situations when visiting China or a Chinese Speaking country.
• Describing present (future) and past events.
• Describing objects and place.

Learning Outcomes

• On successful completion of the module, learners should be able to:
• Demonstrate an understanding of basic Chinese grammar, vocabulary and the writing system essential for everyday communication.
• Understand the origin of the Chinese characters, and the background of Mandarin and simplified characters.
• Understand short spoken and written texts (in Chinese) on familiar topics and extract essential information from the relevant text.
• Show an awareness of the main features of contemporary Chinese-speaking culture and everyday social events.

• On successful completion of the module, learners should be able to:
• Interact in simple, routine tasks requiring a direct exchange of information on familiar topics and everyday activities, both in person and online.
• Describe aspects of their background, daily life, and preferences using basic sentence structures.
• Describe everyday situations using learned basic grammatical forms appropriately.
• Apply basic grammatical knowledge and metalanguage to support independent study of essential grammar and vocabulary.

• On successful completion of the module, learners should be able to:
• Identify their own learning needs and address them effectively adopt strategies to enhance language development
• Reflect on their learning progress and adjust learning strategies effectively.
• Demonstrate growing confidence in using the language in simple and predictable situation.

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

• This module is delivered through weekly seminars that combine communicative practice, interactive tasks, and guided independent study. Activities include individual, pair, and group work; extended speaking practice; grammar application tasks; listening and reading activities using connected texts; short presentations; and reflective exercises. Multimedia resources and digital tools are integrated to support kanji expansion, vocabulary development, and learner autonomy.
• Students are expected to engage actively in independent study, revising new material and preparing for class through vocabulary review, and consolidation of grammar. Reflective strategies help track progress and identify areas for improvement. Collaborative activities, such as peer feedback and group discussions, support extended interactions and build confidence in managing more complex communicative situations.
• The module uses continuous assessment through formative tasks such as vocabulary and grammar quizzes, listening practice, and short writing tasks. The summative assessment evaluates overall language proficiency across all four skills (speaking, writing, listening, and reading), ensuring students can apply basic grammar, essential vocabulary, and characters in practical communication.
• Time dedicated to the In-Year tests factors in turnaround time and will usually be 60-90 minutes in length. Time dedicated to the Oral Examinations also factors in turnaround time. Both forms of assessment are usually done under exam conditions and held in person.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Regular homework/assignments will be given to the students to practise and consolidate what they have done in class and to prepare the following session, some of which will be submitted and marked as formative assignments and regular feedback will be given to the students accordingly.

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.