Chinese Language Introduction
Chinese is the most widely spoken language in the world, with over 1 billion native speakers. There are more than 129 languages in China, not including dialects. China has more than 56 ethnic groups. Of these, the Han people are approximately 96 percent of the population. This is why the Chinese language is also called “han yu”, meaning “Han’s language”. Chinese characters are called “han zi”, meaning “Chinese words”. The most common language in China is; called Mandarin. It is the official language of China.
At BC we teach Mandarin Chinese character writing and pronunciation/speaking. We teach simplified Chinese characters and introduce traditional characters. We also use pinyin to introduce the pronunciation and writing of the language. Pinyin makes Chinese much easier to learn for students familiar with alphabet-based languages. We teach students pinyin/type Chinese characters during the first two weeks in the Chinese 121 class.
The BC Chinese program offers a variety of Chinese courses. we have a classroom, online, and hybrid classes. Students can choose the class that best fits their schedule. We have tutors at the tutor center and language lab to help students practice character writing and pronunciation. We can provide a personal tutor as well if needed.
Class Descriptions
CHIN& 121: Chinese I 5 cr.
Introduces basic functional language ability by acquiring vocabulary and skills in grammar, pronunciation, and the Pinyin (Romanized) writing system. Students practice sounds and tones, vocabulary, grammatical constructions and practice pronunciation and Chinese characters writing. Includes listening, speaking, reading and writing skills using traditional and simplified characters. Course includes elements of Chinese culture, art, and music.
CHIN& 122: Chinese II 5 cr.
Introduces functional language ability in spoken and written Chinese. Continues elements of Chinese culture. Students practice sounds and tones, vocabulary, and grammatical constructions, practice pronunciation and Chinese characters writing and use Chinese in authentic situations. Recommended: CHIN& 121, one year of High School or permission of instructor.
CHIN& 123: Chinese III 5 cr.
Further expands functional language ability in spoken and written Chinese. Students practice sounds and tones, vocabulary, and grammatical constructions and both traditional and both traditional and simplified characters and practice using Chinese in authentic situations. Continues understanding of Chinese culture. Recommended: CHIN& 122, two years of High School or permission of instructor.
CHIN& 221: Chinese IV 5 cr.
Reviews and expands basic, first-year Chinese skills. Increases understanding of Chinese grammar, expand vocabulary, and improves productive and receptive language skills within a cultural context. Includes both traditional and simplified characters. Increases understanding of Chinese culture. Recommended: CHIN& 123 or permission of instructor.
CHIN& 222: Chinese V 5 cr.
Reviews and expands basic, first-year Chinese skills. Increases understanding of Chinese culture, grammar, expands vocabulary, improves productivity and receptive language skills within a cultural context. Covers both traditional and simplified characters and practices using Chinese in authentic situations. Recommended: CHIN& 221 or permission of instructor.
CHIN& 223: Chinese VI 5 cr.
Reviews and expands basic, first-year Chinese skills. Increases understanding of Chinese culture and society, grammar, expand vocabulary, and improves productive and receptive language skills within a cultural context. Recommended: CHIN& 222 or permission of instructor.
Last Updated July 11, 2023