2011-2012 Course Syllabus

Syllabus for Chinese 1

2011-2012

Sharon Meng (Meng Lǎoshī)

Room 336

Planning periods: 6^th, 7^th and 8^th

Email: smeng@gsgis.k12.va.us                       Phone: 354-6800 Ext.3304

Course Description:

            This course provides a foundation for learning Standard Mandarin Chinese. Based on the textbook 跟我学汉语 Gen Wo Xue Hanyu I (Learn Chinese with Me I) and several other commonly used high school Chinese textbooks, this course introduces basic Chinese grammar and phonics. Chinese culture is an integral part of this class. Reading and writing are limited in scope and guided through the use of learned vocabulary and language structures. By the end of the course, students learn to write 120-130 characters and recognize 200 characters. Students will also be able to understand, converse, read and write about simple everyday topics.

Textbook(s): There is no assigned textbook. Students will be given instructor-made handouts and worksheets. Students are only responsible for material provided by the teacher.

Web Page: http://menglaoshichinese1.blogspot.com/

Also linked to school webpage: http://www.gsgis.k12.va.us/ (click on Faculty Webpage)

Major Themes:

1.      Personal Life

2.      Family and Friends

3.      School and Community

4.      The World Around Us

Assessment/Evaluation Procedures:

Students will be evaluated on homework, class participation, quizzes, tests and projects.

Late work policy:

• Students are responsible for making up all work missed during an excused absence.
• Following an excused absence, students should complete any missing homework assignments and/or class work within a week after returning to class.
• After returning to school from an excused absence, students must schedule to make up any missed quizzes or tests within a week.
• With the exception of excused absences, homework assignments are due on their due dates. 20 points will be taken off for each class period the assignment is late.
• Students with special circumstances that prevent them from completing homework assignments should speak to Meng Laoshi before class.

Classroom Expectations:

1. Students should respect the teacher and one another
2. Students should be punctual and come prepared to class
3. Students should actively participate in all classroom activities
4. Students should not eat, drink or chew gum during instruction (water bottles are okay)

Homework Guidelines:

• Punctuality: Bring the assignment the day it is due. Meng Laoshi will only accept work that is completed in full.
• Identification: Your name, date that the assignment is due must be on the paper that you turn in.
• Legibility: Write as neatly as possible. Character sheet grades are based on both completion and accuracy.

Materials Needed:

1.      One 1” three ring binder

2.      5 subject index divider 

3.      Index cards for making flashcards

4.      4 dry erase markers (dark, easy to see colors—red, blue, black, green. No yellow or light green please)

5.      One composition book for additional character writing practice

Useful tips for learning Chinese:

• Keep a well-organized binder. Keep all handouts, notes, worksheets and characters sheets in their place.
• Spend at least 15 minutes daily reviewing new characters and words for recognition
• Practice tones. Record yourself or practice with a friend who is also taking Chinese.
• Check the class website at least once a week.
• Keep updated with Chinese current events.