This course is a Content-Based Instruction (CBI) course that embodies the Monterey Way. The format of the class has 4-hour component: vocabulary and communicative grammar practices; performance, and content discussion or reading extension. The learning tasks incorporate reading texts of Chinese contemporary historical events to enhance students’ understanding, watching movies that mark historical events, acting and discussing in class.

It is designed to build colloquial conversational and listening skills through acting bits from the movie, to engage students to access authentic texts, to enhance understanding of content knowledge of Chinese modern history and Chinese culture. Assignments include different forms of performing and acting, weekly essays, grammar exercise sheets, listening exercises, etc.

Prerequisite: Intermediate-high or above language proficiency level as determined by placement and oral exams; students with ability to read less complex authentic materials.

For the reading component, online articles and book chapters on Chinese history will be studied. Reading exercises will train students to sort, skim, and read a variety of authentic materials,
with the aid of a dictionary. Diverse genres, such as book chapter, news, modern poetry, etc. are used to help students to better interact with different texts encountered in many real life situation.

For the listening and speaking component, in addition to the drill session, classroom discussions, CHLA 8368 is based on interactive learning from video clips and audio files learning. These will
be used at times to improve students’ listening comprehension. Students will be asked to tell stories, discuss content, to apply their content knowledge to real situations in small groups or in pairs. Students will also be asked to conduct an interview with Chinese speakers regarding a relevant historical or cultural topic, and then report back in class,hosting a class discussion, and making oral presentations.


For the writing component, in addition to short writing assignments (such as summary of reading, review of articles, essay questions, language exercises), students need to work in pairs to compile vocabulary list of assigned articles they are going to present. Please prepare in advance and turn in the vocabulary list to the instructors at least 3 DAYS BEFORE PRESENTATION DATE.

For the final writing project, one has to either choose to write a 6-8 page analytic research paper on Chinese history, history of nonproliferation, green policy or subjects relevant to history and your expertise, or critical movie analysis or comparative/ contrastive analysis. You are also encouraged to integrate social media as a final presentation tool to incorporate your final project. Please discuss with the instructor.