Chinese for Beginners Offered by Peking Unversity from Coursera

This course is designed for beginners with no prior knowledge of the Chinese language. It aims to introduce the basics of Chinese, including pronunciation, common phrases, and foundational grammar. The course focuses on both spoken and written Mandarin Chinese, providing learners with the essential tools to start communicating in Chinese.
Key Features

  • Introduction to Pinyin: Learn the Romanization system used to teach Mandarin pronunciation.
  • Basic Vocabulary and Phrases: Gain familiarity with common words and phrases used in everyday situations.
  • Chinese Characters: Introduction to reading and writing basic Chinese characters.
  • Pronunciation Practice: Emphasis on correct pronunciation and tones, which are crucial in Mandarin.
  • Cultural Insights: Understanding the cultural context in which the language is used.

Skills you will gain

By completing the “Chinese for Beginners” course from Peking University on Coursera, you will gain a variety of skills essential for basic proficiency in Mandarin Chinese. Here’s an overview of the skills you can expect to develop:
Skills You’ll Gain
1. Grammar

  • Understanding Basic Structures: Learn the fundamental grammar rules of Mandarin Chinese, including sentence structures and syntax.
  • Using Simple Sentences: Construct simple sentences for effective communication.
  • Applying Grammar in Context: Practice using grammar rules in real-life situations and conversations.

2. Communication

  • Conversational Skills: Develop the ability to hold basic conversations in Mandarin, including greetings, introductions, and daily interactions.
  • Listening and Speaking: Improve your listening comprehension and speaking abilities through interactive exercises and practice.
  • Expressing Needs and Preferences: Learn to articulate needs, preferences, and opinions in various contexts.

3. Chinese Language

  • Vocabulary: Build a foundational vocabulary covering everyday topics such as personal information, schedules, food, prices, city life, weather, and hobbies.
  • Pronunciation: Master the pronunciation of Mandarin sounds, including the correct use of tones.
  • Cultural Insights: Gain an understanding of cultural nuances and context to enhance language use.

4. Speech

  • Pronunciation Practice: Focus on correct pronunciation and tonal accuracy to ensure clear communication.
  • Fluency in Basic Conversations: Achieve fluency in basic conversations, enabling you to engage confidently in everyday interactions.
  • Interactive Speaking Exercises: Participate in activities designed to improve speech through practice and repetition.

Additional Benefits

  • Practical Application: Use the language in practical scenarios and real-life situations.
  • Immersive Learning: Benefit from a virtual reality experience that allows you to practice speaking in a simulated Chinese environment.
  • Confidence Building: Gain confidence in using Mandarin Chinese for basic communication needs.

By the end of the course, you will have a solid foundation in Mandarin Chinese, enabling you to communicate effectively in various everyday situations and continue building your language skills.

What you will learn

The “Chinese for Beginners” course from Peking University on Coursera is a structured and engaging way to start learning Mandarin Chinese. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the course structure and features:
Course Structure
Module 1: Introduction to Mandarin Phonetics

  • Focus: Basics of Mandarin phonetics, including the Pinyin system.
  • Content: Pronunciation of initials, finals, and tones.

Module 2: Essential Daily Expressions

  • Focus: Common phrases used in everyday conversations.
  • Content: Greetings, introductions, and basic etiquette.

Module 3: Exchanging Personal Information

  • Focus: Communication involving personal details.
  • Content: Names, nationalities, occupations, and contact information.

Module 4: Discussing Daily Schedules

  • Focus: Describing daily routines and activities.
  • Content: Time expressions, daily schedules, and planning.

Module 5: Conversing about Food and Prices

  • Focus: Ordering food and discussing prices.
  • Content: Food vocabulary, dining out, shopping, and bargaining.

Module 6: City Life and Weather

  • Focus: Talking about urban environments and weather conditions.
  • Content: Descriptions of cities, transportation, weather terms, and seasonal activities.

Module 7: Hobbies and Interests

  • Focus: Discussing leisure activities and personal interests.
  • Content: Vocabulary related to hobbies, sports, and entertainment.

Learning Features
Practical Topics and Real-Life Situations

  • Scope: The curriculum includes diverse topics and scenarios to prepare learners for real-world conversations.
  • Examples: Exchanging personal information, discussing daily schedules, conversing about food, prices, city life, weather, and hobbies.

Interactive and Engaging Activities

  • Methods: Interactive exercises, quizzes, and practice sessions to reinforce learning.
  • Materials: A variety of reading materials that enhance the learning experience.

Focus on Speaking Skills

  • Objective: Emphasis on spoken Mandarin, making the course accessible and enjoyable without the need to learn Chinese characters initially.

Bonus Feature: Immersive VR Experience

  • Description: A virtual travel game that allows learners to practice their Chinese in a simulated real-world environment.
  • Activities: Scavenger hunts, conversations with vendors, interactions with other virtual travelers, and exploration of a traditional market.
  • Platforms: Available on VR headsets and desktop computers.