Chinese (CHI) - Courses

CHI 100 Cr.1

Basic Spoken Chinese

This is a one-credit course designed to introduce the fundamentals of spoken Chinese. This course will focus solely on speaking and listening in Chinese and will not teach written Chinese. All vocabulary and texts will be in the standard Romanization of Chinese (Pin Yin). The goal of this course is to familiarize students with the Chinese pronunciation system and to carry on simple conversations on topics related to college and daily life. Offered Spring.

CHI 101 Cr.4

Chinese in a Global Society I

The first of two introductory courses, this course familiarizes students with the Chinese pronunciation and writing systems and develops their basic communicative competence in the four skills of listening, reading, speaking, and writing. It also develops students' cross-cultural awareness while building communicative strategies. Offered Fall.

+CHI 102 Cr.4

Chinese in a Global Society II

This course further develops basic communicative competence in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It also develops students' cross-cultural awareness while building their communicative strategies. Prerequisite: CHI 101 or placement. Offered Spring.

+CHI 201 Cr.4

Chinese Language and Culture in Action I

This course continues to develop students' communicative competence in the four skills of listening, reading, speaking, and writing. It also develops students' cross-cultural awareness and competence while building communicative strategies. Prerequisite: CHI 102 or placement. Offered Fall.

+CHI 202 Cr.4

Chinese Language and Culture in Action II

The second of two intermediate-level Chinese courses, this course continues to develop students' communicative competence in the four skills of listening, reading, speaking, and writing. It also develops students' cross-cultural awareness and competence while building their communicative strategies. Prerequisite: CHI 201 or placement. Offered Spring.

CHI 301 Cr.3

Advanced Chinese

This is a Chinese language course for intermediate level learners who have completed CHI 202 or equivalent. Its aim is to help students continue to develop communicative competence in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing the Chinese language. While linguistic aspects of the Chinese language are the primary focus, introduction to the social and cultural background of the language will also form an important part of the course. Prerequisite: CHI 202 or equivalent. Offered Fall.

+CHI 305 Cr.3

Introduction to Modern Chinese Literature

This course provides a general survey of the most important Chinese writers of the 20th century and their works. Literary works are discussed in their social, cultural, and historical contexts. Taught in English and based entirely on translated texts, the course is ideal for students with little or no Chinese background who are nevertheless drawn to one of the most vibrant literary cultures in the world. Offered Spring - Even Numbered Years.

CHI 315 Cr.3

Business Chinese

This course is aimed to enhance students' language skills in a business context and to promote their understanding of culture and the business environment in contemporary China. Intensive practice in oral comprehension, speaking, writing, utilizing special, topical vocabulary related to international commerce and interaction in a variety of business settings. Prerequisite: CHI 202 or equivalent. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.

+CHI 320 Cr.3

Introduction to Chinese Civilization

This is a survey course covering the development of Chinese civilization from the beginnings to the 20th century. It introduces the evolution and continuities of this ancient culture seen through the lens of philosophy, religion, ritual, social relations, institutions, and achievements. This course is taught in English for students who want a basic appreciation of this important non-Western culture. No experience with the Chinese language or culture is required. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.

CHI 326 Cr.1

Current Events

This course is heavily student-oriented and learning community-based. It holds a weekly discussion of current events in the Chinese-speaking world based on readings, news articles, and videos in English. Topics are chosen, organized, and presented by students, based on their own interests. This course aims at developing students' intercultural competence, critical thinking, and learner autonomy. Repeatable for credit - maximum three. Consent of instructor. Offered Fall.

CHI 398 Cr.1-3

Directed Studies

Individual reading and investigations in advanced Chinese study. Course materials will vary according to the needs and interests of students. Repeatable for credit - maximum six. Prerequisite: CHI 202 or equivalent. Offered Occasionally.