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Xiaoyu Liu
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Chinese culture and language with our ABC Chinese course for beginners. This comprehensive course provides an introduction to Mandarin phonetics and essential daily expressions, enabling learners to achieve a fundamental understanding and confidently engage in basic conversations.
Read more
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Chinese culture and language with our ABC Chinese course for beginners. This comprehensive course provides an introduction to Mandarin phonetics and essential daily expressions, enabling learners to achieve a fundamental understanding and confidently engage in basic conversations.
Read more
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Chinese culture and language with our ABC Chinese course for beginners. This comprehensive course provides an introduction to Mandarin phonetics and essential daily expressions, enabling learners to achieve a fundamental understanding and confidently engage in basic conversations.
Our carefully crafted curriculum covers practical topics and real-life situations, ranging from exchanging personal information and discussing daily schedules to conversing about food, prices, city life, weather, and hobbies. The diverse selection of reading materials and interactive activities ensures a rich and stimulating learning experience, piquing learners' interests throughout the course.
No need to worry about learning Chinese characters – this course focuses on speaking skills, making it accessible and enjoyable.
Elevate your learning with a thrilling bonus feature: virtually travel to China and hone your speaking skills with our immersive game, playable on a VR headset or desktop. Embark on a scavenger hunt, talk to vendors, encounter fellow travelers, and explore a traditional market, all while applying your Chinese skills in a real-world environment.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/wvavb1/chinese
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What's inside
Syllabus
Who Are You?
When we first meet someone, we need to learn about each other. In this module, we are going to learn some ways to introduce yourself, including name, nationality, identity, and discussing your family. We are also going to study Chinese Mandarin phonetics.
Read more
Syllabus
Who Are You?
When we first meet someone, we need to learn about each other. In this module, we are going to learn some ways to introduce yourself, including name, nationality, identity, and discussing your family. We are also going to study Chinese Mandarin phonetics.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Develops core conversational skills in Mandarin Chinese, addressing common daily situations
Provides a comprehensive foundation in Mandarin phonetics, enabling learners to accurately pronounce Chinese words
Emphasizes practical language use through interactive activities and real-life scenarios, ensuring learners can apply their skills in everyday conversations
Utilizes a multi-modal approach with a blend of reading materials, interactive activities, and a virtual travel experience, fostering engagement and diverse learning styles
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Reviews summary
Practical beginner chinese speaking
According to the course information, this course is designed for beginners who want to focus on speaking Mandarin without learning Chinese characters. Students focusing on practical application may find the content on daily life topics, such as food, shopping, and travel, particularly useful. A unique feature highlighted is the immersive VR game, offering a novel way to practice conversation in simulated real-world scenarios. While the explicit avoidance of characters makes it accessible for some, learners aiming to read or write Chinese will need supplementary resources. The course is developed by Peking University, suggesting potentially high academic quality.
Course from a reputable university.
"Studying Chinese fundamentals from Peking University feels very authentic."
"The quality feels high coming from such a well-known institution."
"Trustworthy content since it's developed by Peking University."
Unique way to practice speaking.
"The VR game sounds like an amazing way to immerse myself and practice speaking."
"Excited to use the VR feature to simulate real conversations in China."
"A unique and potentially engaging way to test my speaking skills."
Covers useful daily situations.
"Learning phrases for food, shopping, and travel is incredibly useful for my trip."
"The topics cover everyday situations I'll actually encounter."
"I appreciate learning practical, real-life vocabulary and phrases."
Emphasis on practical conversation skills.
"I can focus purely on speaking the language without worrying about characters."
"The emphasis on conversation makes it easy to start talking right away."
"Perfect if you just want to learn to speak and understand spoken Chinese."
Explicitly avoids character learning.
"Be aware this course explicitly skips learning any Chinese characters."
"This course isn't for you if your goal is to read or write Chinese."
"Focuses strictly on pinyin and speaking, not hanzi."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Chinese for Beginners with these
activities:
Create a vocabulary notebook with Chinese words and phrases
Show steps
Creating a vocabulary notebook with Chinese words and phrases will serve as a valuable reference tool and help you expand your vocabulary.
Browse courses on
Chinese Vocabulary
Show steps
-
Gather Chinese words and phrases from your studies
-
Organize them into categories or topics
-
Write down the words and phrases along with their meanings and pronunciations
-
Regularly review your notebook to reinforce your learning
Practice basic Chinese words and phrases
Show steps
Warming up your memory and practicing basic Chinese words and phrases will ease you into the course and prepare you for more complex topics later on.
Browse courses on
Chinese Vocabulary
Show steps
-
Review the Chinese alphabet (Pinyin)
-
Practice pronunciation of common words
-
Form simple phrases using basic vocabulary
Watch videos on Chinese pronunciation
Show steps
Watching videos on Chinese pronunciation will enhance your listening skills and help you master the correct pronunciation of Chinese words and phrases.
Browse courses on
Chinese Pronunciation
Show steps
-
Search for videos on Chinese pronunciation
-
Listen to native speakers pronounce words and phrases
-
Practice imitating the pronunciation
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Complete online Chinese grammar exercises
Show steps
Engaging in Chinese grammar exercises will solidify your understanding of the language's structure and help you construct sentences correctly.
Browse courses on
Chinese Grammar
Show steps
-
Find online Chinese grammar exercises
-
Complete exercises on various grammar topics
-
Check your answers and identify areas for improvement
Translate a short Chinese text into your native language
Show steps
Translating a short Chinese text into your native language helps you develop your reading comprehension skills and deepen your understanding of Chinese grammar and vocabulary.
Show steps
-
Find a short Chinese text that interests you
-
Read the text carefully and understand its meaning
-
Translate the text into your native language, paying attention to grammar and vocabulary
-
Review your translation and make any necessary corrections
Create a vocabulary notebook with Chinese words and phrases
Show steps
Creating a vocabulary notebook with Chinese words and phrases will serve as a valuable reference tool and help you expand your vocabulary.
Browse courses on
Chinese Vocabulary
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather Chinese words and phrases from your studies
- Organize them into categories or topics
- Write down the words and phrases along with their meanings and pronunciations
- Regularly review your notebook to reinforce your learning
Practice basic Chinese words and phrases
Show steps
Warming up your memory and practicing basic Chinese words and phrases will ease you into the course and prepare you for more complex topics later on.
Browse courses on
Chinese Vocabulary
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the Chinese alphabet (Pinyin)
- Practice pronunciation of common words
- Form simple phrases using basic vocabulary
Watch videos on Chinese pronunciation
Show steps
Watching videos on Chinese pronunciation will enhance your listening skills and help you master the correct pronunciation of Chinese words and phrases.
Browse courses on
Chinese Pronunciation
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for videos on Chinese pronunciation
- Listen to native speakers pronounce words and phrases
- Practice imitating the pronunciation
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Complete online Chinese grammar exercises
Show steps
Engaging in Chinese grammar exercises will solidify your understanding of the language's structure and help you construct sentences correctly.
Browse courses on
Chinese Grammar
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online Chinese grammar exercises
- Complete exercises on various grammar topics
- Check your answers and identify areas for improvement
Translate a short Chinese text into your native language
Show steps
Translating a short Chinese text into your native language helps you develop your reading comprehension skills and deepen your understanding of Chinese grammar and vocabulary.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a short Chinese text that interests you
- Read the text carefully and understand its meaning
- Translate the text into your native language, paying attention to grammar and vocabulary
- Review your translation and make any necessary corrections
Career center
Learners who complete Chinese for Beginners will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Interpreter
Interpreter
Interpreters are an essential part of international business. They provide a vital link between people who speak different languages, helping them to communicate effectively. The Chinese for Beginners course can help you build a solid foundation in Mandarin, one of the world's most widely spoken languages. This course will help you develop the skills you need to succeed as an Interpreter, including listening comprehension, speaking fluency, and cultural awareness.
Translator
Translator
Translators are responsible for converting written text from one language to another. They play a vital role in international communication, ensuring that information is accurately and effectively conveyed across language barriers. The Chinese for Beginners course is an excellent starting point for anyone who wants to become a Translator. It will help you develop the language skills and cultural knowledge you need to succeed in this field.
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officers represent their country abroad, working to promote its interests and build relationships with other nations. They are responsible for a wide range of tasks, including political reporting, economic analysis, and cultural diplomacy. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Foreign Service Officers, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
International Business Consultant
International Business Consultant
International Business Consultants help companies to expand their operations into new markets. They provide advice on a variety of topics, including market entry strategies, cross-cultural communication, and legal compliance. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for International Business Consultants, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
ESL Teacher
ESL Teacher
ESL (English as a Second Language) Teachers help non-native speakers to learn English. They develop and implement lesson plans, assess student progress, and provide support to students outside of the classroom. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for ESL Teachers, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Travel Agent
Travel Agent
Travel Agents help people to plan and book their vacations. They provide advice on destinations, accommodations, and activities, and they can also help to arrange visas and other travel documents. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Travel Agents, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. They work in a variety of settings, including newspapers, magazines, and television stations. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Journalists, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help people to find and access information. They work in a variety of settings, including public libraries, school libraries, and corporate libraries. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Librarians, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators are responsible for the care and preservation of museum collections. They also develop and implement educational programs and exhibitions. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Museum Curators, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Professor
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. They develop and deliver lectures, lead discussions, and grade assignments. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Professors, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers conduct original research in a variety of fields, including science, social science, and the humanities. They design and implement research studies, analyze data, and publish their findings. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Researchers, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Writer
Writer
Writers create written content for a variety of purposes, including fiction, non-fiction, and journalism. They develop and write articles, books, short stories, and other works. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Writers, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Editor
Editor
Editors review, revise, and edit written content for a variety of purposes, including fiction, non-fiction, and journalism. They work with writers to improve the clarity, accuracy, and readability of their work. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Editors, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of organizations and individuals. They develop and implement public relations campaigns, write press releases, and give speeches. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Public Relations Specialists, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers develop and implement marketing campaigns to promote products or services. They conduct market research, develop marketing strategies, and manage marketing budgets. The Chinese for Beginners course can be a valuable asset for Marketing Managers, helping them to build the language skills and cultural understanding they need to succeed in their roles.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wvavb1/chinese
Reading list
We've selected 30 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Chinese for Beginners.
This dictionary comprehensive and authoritative reference for both Mandarin and English learners. It useful tool for looking up unfamiliar words and phrases, as well as for checking pronunciation and usage.
This comprehensive reference grammar provides a detailed overview of Mandarin Chinese grammar. It valuable resource for learners of all levels, and can be used as a supplement to the course or as a standalone reference.
This encyclopedia provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese culture, including history, philosophy, religion, arts, and literature. It valuable reference for learners who want to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context of Mandarin Chinese.
Is recommended for its broad overview of Mandarin Chinese. Although it was published in the 1990s, it is still considered one of the best textbooks for beginners.
This in-depth textbook offers a comprehensive and systematic approach to learning Mandarin. It covers all aspects of the language, including grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and writing. It is suitable for both beginners and intermediate learners.
Save
This textbook is the official textbook for the HSK 1 exam, the first level of the HSK proficiency test. It provides a structured and comprehensive approach to learning Mandarin, with a focus on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Save
This best-selling course published by Tuttle Publishing is written by native Chinese speakers and teachers and gives the student a foundational understanding of conversational Chinese in a systematic and easy-to-learn way. There are three workbooks that go along with this text.
Comprehensive dictionary of Chinese usage, and valuable resource for learners of all levels. It provides detailed information on the meaning and usage of Chinese words and phrases.
An approachable and easy-to-follow Chinese language learning book that covers essential grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
Save
Comprehensive reference for Chinese grammar, providing concise explanations and ample examples. It is particularly useful as a supplementary resource for those who want to deepen their understanding of Mandarin sentence structure and grammar rules.
Save
This textbook is designed for intermediate learners of Mandarin and is commonly used in Chinese language schools and universities. It provides a comprehensive overview of Mandarin grammar, vocabulary, and culture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese characters, and valuable resource for learners of all levels. It is particularly useful for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the language's writing system.
Save
This textbook is commonly used in university Chinese language programs. It provides a solid foundation in Mandarin Chinese grammar and vocabulary.
Provides a historical overview of Chinese civilization from its origins to the present day. It valuable resource for learners who want to understand the historical and cultural context of Mandarin Chinese.
This comprehensive language learning kit includes everything you need to learn Mandarin Chinese, from beginner to advanced levels. It includes audio CDs, DVDs, and a workbook, and provides a structured approach to learning the language.
This grammar and workbook provides a comprehensive overview of intermediate Mandarin Chinese grammar. It valuable resource for learners who want to improve their grammar skills and vocabulary, and can be used as a supplement to the course or as a standalone practice tool.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese festivals and customs, and valuable resource for those who want to learn more about Chinese culture.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese history, and valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the country's past.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Chinese economy, and valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the country's economic development.
This phrasebook and dictionary handy reference for travelers and learners who need to communicate in Mandarin. It provides essential phrases and vocabulary for a variety of situations, as well as cultural tips and insights.
This textbook is commonly used in university Chinese language programs. It teaches Pinyin and the four tones. The authentic materials and exercises are helpful for developing proficiency.
Collection of graded Chinese texts, with accompanying exercises and vocabulary lists. It valuable resource for learners who want to improve their reading skills and expand their vocabulary.
Looking up the characters and words you encounter in this course will allow you to expand your vocabulary and reference them later.
Save
This reader provides a collection of authentic Chinese texts, with accompanying exercises and notes. It great resource for learners who want to improve their reading comprehension and vocabulary. It can be used as a supplement to the course or as a standalone practice tool.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese cuisine, and valuable resource for those who want to learn how to cook Chinese dishes.
Save
This comprehensive textbook offers a step-by-step approach to learning Mandarin, covering all the essential elements of the language, from pronunciation to grammar to vocabulary. It good choice for beginners who want a structured and thorough introduction to Mandarin.
This advanced textbook provides a comprehensive overview of Mandarin Chinese grammar. It covers various topics, including sentence structure, verb tenses, and modal particles.
Provides a step-by-step guide to Tai Chi, and valuable resource for those who want to learn this traditional Chinese martial art.
This textbook is designed to improve reading comprehension skills in Mandarin Chinese. It includes authentic texts, exercises, and cultural notes that provide insights into Chinese culture.
This user-friendly textbook provides a fun and engaging introduction to Mandarin. It is suitable for complete beginners and offers a gradual approach to learning the language, with plenty of exercises and interactive activities.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wvavb1/chinese
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Rating
4.8
Effort
23 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
Peking University
Instructor
Xiaoyu Liu
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
עברית
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
српски
मराठी
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