1. Brief Introduction
- We created an effective way to teach Chinese characters based on 29 Chinese radicals. Each radical is a stroke that functions as a basic spelling symbols, while characters serve as basic analytical units. Structurally, strokes form components, and components form characters.
- Any one Chinese character is either simple or compound. If the character is simple, as with about 18 percent of the total number of Chinese characters, it consists of a single un-analyzable component. If the character is compound, as with about 82 percent of the total, it is comprised of two analyzable components with distinct functions: a semantic radical and phonetic element.
- As you learn Chinese, you will gain an “eye” for words. China prides itself in beautiful calligraphy. Many scientists have pointed up the therapeutic nature of visual arts. Why not combine communication with the soothing practice of writing elegant Chinese characters?
- Ways of teaching Chinese characters:
- We have several clear steps toward successful Chinese reading and writing.
- Whole characters are presented with color-coded radicals;
- Learners are elicited to attempt pronunciation, including tones;
- A model of correct pronunciation and tones is provided for each of the target characters;
- The semantic relationship between the radical and the relevant character is explained.
- At a later time, characters are reviewed, with analyzable components shown in different colors;
- Learners analyze the configuration and stroke order of each character
- Characters with the same radicals are grouped together;
- Each target character is presented in context, in phrases and sentences;;
- Learners practice writing target characters and reading them aloud in phrases and sentences.
2. Entry Level
- Beginner A: For those who want to learn Chinese characters quickly in a modern and exciting way.
- Beginner B: For those who have completed Beginner A OR those who have mastered 70 basic Chinese radicals and 380 Chinese characters.
3. Learning Objectives
- Beginner A: Learn 10 Chinese characters and 20 phrases that go along with each character per lesson. The goal is to master 70 radicals and 380 characters by the end of the course. Course instruction includes the use of QQ, MSN or any other SNS or IM client (e.g. facebook, renren.cn) in order to learn how to type characters in a computer. Students will be able to write an essay of 600 words after 5 weeks of study.
- Beginner B: The radical grouping method, which is unique to our school, is a fast and understandable way of learning Chinese characters. The comparison of similarly shaped characters as well as comparison of the homophones enables students to master an additional 600 Chinese characters in 6-8 weeks.
- By the end of the Beginner A and Beginner B courses, the student masters around 1,000 Chinese characters. 1000 covers more than 90% of Chinese characters used in everyday oral communication. This means that by the conclusion of course A and B students will be able to read simple newspaper articles and write at that level.
Please do not hesitate to email us for more information : quotation@chinapax.com
