LN241     
Mandarin for International Relations (Elementary)

This information is for the 2023/24 session.

Teacher responsible

Dr Hua Xiang PEL.6.01B

Availability

This course is compulsory on the BSc in International Relations and Chinese. This course is not available as an outside option nor to General Course students.

Pre-requisites

Students must have completed Mandarin Language and Society Level 1 (Beginner) (LN104) and Mandarin Language and Society 2 (Intermediate) (LN142).

Course content

A subject specific study of the Mandarin language within the framework of International Relations. In a dynamic and communicative way the course develops all four language skills (i.e. speaking, listening, reading and writing) through individual and group work, topical discussions, authentic and multi-media materials. The focus is on accuracy as well as communication that advance students’ language competence, transferable skills and cultural awareness. The focus will be specific vocabulary related to International Relations and reading skills of simple texts in the target language on International Relations topics. 

Teaching

44 hours of classes in the AT. 44 hours of classes in the WT. 4 hours of classes in the ST.

Four hours per week, which will feature: (a) interactive topical work; (b) oral practise; (c) grammar and vocabulary work; (d) tutorials; and (e) guided study using IT and web-based materials.

Reading week in Week 6 of MT and LT.

Formative coursework

Students will be expected to produce 1 essay, 1 exercise, 1 presentation, 1 project and 1 other piece of coursework in the AT and WT.

The students will be required to complete weekly exercises. This includes vocabulary quizes, grammar activities, writing Chinese characters and use of online communicative materials.

Indicative reading

Newspaper articles, internet sources, other web-based materials dealing with international relationship issues.

http://www.ftchinese.com/story/001065369?full=y

https://zht.globalvoices.org/category/topics/international-relations/

Assessment

Exam (30%, duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes) in the spring exam period.
Coursework (50%) in the AT and WT.
Oral examination (20%) in the ST.

Language courses map to the Common European Framework for Language Learning. This framework defines linguistic proficiency in the four language skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) at different levels. To pass this course, students are therefore required to achieve a pass mark in each element of the assessment (continuous assessment, oral and written exams), as these test all four skills.

Key facts

Department: Language Centre

Total students 2022/23: 16

Average class size 2022/23: 16

Capped 2022/23: No

Value: One Unit

Guidelines for interpreting course guide information

Course selection videos

Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.

Personal development skills

  • Self-management
  • Team working
  • Problem solving
  • Application of information skills
  • Communication
  • Specialist skills