Introduction to Mandarin 2 - Intermediate Grammar

Introduction to Mandarin 2

• Mandarin Chinese is a Sinitic language spoken by over a billion people globally.
• It is the official language of the People's Republic of China, Taiwan, and Singapore.
• Mandarin is a tonal language, where word pronunciation varies with tone changes.
• This class focuses on intermediate-level concepts, building on prior Mandarin language knowledge.

Intermediate Grammar Concepts

• Aspect and Tense: Learning aspect markers to show how an action is viewed (e.g., completed, ongoing, habitual) and understanding Mandarin tense nuances.
• Modal Verbs: Mastering modal verbs to express necessity, possibility, and permission.
• Passive Voice: Learning to express actions focusing on the recipient instead of the agent.
• Relative Clauses: Forming relative clauses to modify nouns, using markers and particles.
• Complex Sentences: Combining clauses using connectives and conjunctions, understanding tone and implication nuances.

Vocabulary Expansion

• Formal vs. Informal Language: Understanding differences in formal and informal vocabulary and expressions.
• Idiomatic Expressions: Learning common idioms and proverbs for cultural understanding.
• Specific Vocabulary relating to: Specific industries, professions, topics (e.g., business, travel, technology, or entertainment).
• Character recognition: Improving recognition and writing of new Chinese characters, radicals, and components for efficient learning.

Speaking and Listening Practice

• Conversation Practice: Role-playing scenarios for speaking practice in various situations (e.g., everyday, professional).
• Listening Comprehension: Developing the ability to understand native speakers using audio materials and real-world recordings.
• Pronunciation: Refining Mandarin tones and sounds, emphasizing proper tone placement, emphasis, and intonation.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Learning phrases, greetings, and cultural concepts to enhance interaction.

Writing Practice

• Essay Practice: Writing essays, stories, or reports to improve grammar, vocabulary, and style for expressing diverse perspectives.
• Formal Letter Writing: Practising formal letter or email writing, focusing on formal structure and Chinese grammar.

Additional Considerations

• Cultural Context: Integrating cultural context into vocabulary and conversation practice.
• Advanced Grammar: Introducing complex grammatical structures for nuanced expression of thoughts and ideas.
• Assessment: Understanding proficiency assessment methods (e.g., tests, quizzes, participation).

This quiz covers intermediate grammar concepts in Mandarin, focusing on aspect markers, modal verbs, passive voice, and relative clauses. It builds upon previously acquired knowledge to enhance understanding of Mandarin's intricacies and its tonal nature. Perfect for learners looking to solidify their grasp of intermediate Mandarin.