Methods of instruction may include, but are not limited to: lectures, small group work, class discussions and presentations, screening of audio or video materials.
- Brief introduction of Modern Chinese grammar and grammatical terms
- Brief introduction of major grammatical and stylistic features of Classical Chinese language
- General comparison between Modern Chinese and Classical Chinese languages
- General comparison between Confucianism and Taoism
- Reading and analysis of selected classical works such as The Book of Songs, The Analects, Mencius, and Dao de Jing.
Successful students will be able to:
- Demonstrate their knowledge of major grammatical and stylistic features of Classical Chinese language
- Identify and articulate their understanding of the main differences between Classical and Modern Chinese languages
- Gain an appreciation for the beauty and the wisdom of Classical Chinese works
- Demonstrate their understanding of key features of Confucianism and Taoism
Evaluation will be based on this general outline:
Attendance and participation |
15% |
Three written projects (in Chinese) during the semester |
30% |
One presentation (in Chinese) during the semester |
15% |
One final research paper (in Chinese) during the semester |
20% |
One final written exam (in Chinese) |
20% |
Total: |
100% |
No single evaluation will be worth more than 20%.
The instructor may choose the most current edition of an introductory classical Chinese textbook such as:
Tian, Ying. Introduction to Classical Chinese. Beijing Language and Culture University Press.
MODL 2292 or equivalent or assessment (students should be able to speak Mandarin or one of the Chinese dialects fluently, and be able to read and write in Chinese at intermediate or advanced level).
Not Specified