Correction: Classes begin Saturday September 12 and run through October 31.

Welcome to Practical Spoken Mandarin for Beginners. This 8 week course (Saturdays 11am-12pm in September and October)  is designed specifically for adult learners with no prior experience. It focuses on practical conversation for daily life and travel. The curriculum equips students with essential vocabulary using the Pinyin phonetic system and basic sentence grammars, emphasizing cross-cultural communication and confidence.  

Learning objectives:  

• Master Phonetics & Tones: Accurately produce the four Mandarin tones and read/pronounce common vocabulary using the Pinyin system.
• Handle Real-World Situations: Conduct basic, uncomplicated conversations in everyday settings—such as introducing yourself, number and money, ordering food, direction and transportation, time and scheduling...
• Expand Core Vocabulary: Retain and actively use 60-80 high-frequency words and foundational sentence structures required for basic travel and survival.
• Build Cultural Competence: Gain insight into modern Chinese culture, lifestyle, and customs, enabling more natural and respectful interactions with native speakers.

The course is designed and taught by Associate Professor Ping Pian of the University of Rochester.  Professor Pian has been teaching in the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures for a number of years. She also teaches or has taught at the Rochester Institute of Technology, Monroe Community College, and the Chinese School of Rochester. 

image from: www.taiwanese-secrets.com

Correction: Classes begin Saturday September 12 and run through October 31.

Classes will be held in the Rundel Arts Room (on 9/26, 10/3 and 10/24 in adjacent Study Room 3)