Aims and Fit of Module

The module is intended for students who have previous knowledge of the Chinese language (B2+ or equivalent) and it will progress in the study the Chinese language and culture. The module will broadly achieve an outcome that at times approaches near-native level communicative competencies, in particular in day to day listening and speaking.

• To consolidate and widen further the knowledge of the Chinese language and written genres including business and literary writing.

• To enhance communicative proficiency in Chinese, in both writing and oral (presentation and interaction), in genres such as for professional business or academic literature and historical study.

• To develop listening and reading skills to near-native levels of authentic business and academic texts.

• To develop a deep knowledge of contemporary Chinese business and academic culture. 


All the Chinese modules have been developed taking into account the QAA benchmark statements for a full or minor component in a language. QAA benchmark statements relate to the language component comprising at least one-third of the study total, resulting in students at the end of the relevant degree programme being at level C1. These Chinese modules make up less than one third of study and so the realistic minimum that would be achieved for a student starting at a beginner level in year 1 is CEFR B2, though students with some initial knowledge would be at C1.

Learning outcomes

A. Be able to demonstrate that they can follow extended speech in the target language on abstract and complex topics of academic and professional relevance.

B. Be able to demonstrate understanding of Chinese literature/writing styles;

C. Be able to use the target language to participate effectively in discussions on complex topics and to give a clear, well-structured presentation on a complex subject, expanding and supporting points of view with appropriate reasons and examples. To be able to communicate in a range of professional and academic situations and with some ability to adapt register to context.

D. Be able to use the target language to write clear, well-structured texts on professional and academic topics in an appropriate style with grammatical control that demonstrates some awareness of genre and register. 

Method of teaching and learning

This module places emphasis on a task-based teaching philosophy, with tasks provided throughout the teaching process. It advocates promoting their verbal and written ability for professional purpose.

  
  
  
All the topics are from authentic materials and a variety of media and genres in contemporary China including some chapters from academic books, prose, and documentary literature.


  
  
  
Reading, discussion, presentation and writing will be organized to build up students’ Knowledge and skills to analyze and writing Chinese essays for argument, exposition, academic papers.


All the seminars and lectures are delivered in Chinese. The lecture, which is a large group practice and review session, will be designed to support student learning in and after class.