Aims and Fit of Module

This module is part of the Teaching Chinese as an International Language pathway that students can study in year 3 and 4 on the BA China Studies degree. The module provides students with an overview of the various aspects of Chinese characters and scripts.
This module aims to provide students with the systematic knowledge in Chinese writing system covering its origin, development, classification and characteristics. This module also covers important issues related to Chinese script in modern times, including simplification, Romanization and acquisition.

Learning outcomes

A	Have gained a systematic understanding of how Chinese script originated and developed.

B	Understand the characteristics of Chinese script in its various styles, including the oracle bone inscriptions, bronze inscriptions, clerical script and standard script.

C	Apply the knowledge in the teaching of Chinese characters.

Method of teaching and learning

The teaching uses a combination of seminars, discussion groups and tutorials. The Seminars introduce students to relevant knowledge of Chinese writing system, which are the basis for group discussion and characters teaching practice. All the seminars are delivered in Chinese.