This introduction to modern standard Chinese emphasizes understanding and speaking, with practice in reading and writing, approximately 300 characters in both traditional and simplified forms. Work in the language laboratory is essential. Students who elect both parts of the sequence are introduced to all the basic structural patterns needed for ordinary conversation. Degree credit is given for completion of one term. These courses offer continued practice and drill in the spoken language and work in the language laboratory.
Emphasis is on expansion of vocabulary and reading skills.
By the end of the year the student may expect to know 1,000 ideographs and be able to read simple texts. Then the Chinese efforts to meet the challenges of the new world order first through a Confucian revival and later through embracing Western technology and ideas are examined. The class traces the development of the Chinese Communist party and the KMT, warlordism, China's involvement in World War II and the founding of the People's Republic of China. This course examines Chinese civilization from prehistoric times to the eve of the Mongol conquest of China. Overarching themes include the development of a central state, changes in the composition of national elites, China's relations with the world and notions of what it meant to be Chinese.