Reading Development in Chinese as a Second Language

This course aims at providing a systematic account of the development of reading ability by students learning Chinese as a second language. The course’s ultimate goal is to foster principled research and effective instruction in Chinese literacy. Towards that end, the course materials will cover general topics, including different theories of reading development and cross-linguistic influences on L2 reading, as well as issues specific to developing reading ability in Chinese, both at the levels of decoding and of comprehension. In addition to gaining insights into the factors that affect reading in a second language, students will engage in critical analysis of some prevailing practices in Chinese reading instruction through examination of textbooks, classroom observation, and personal experiences.

Readings in both English and Chinese while classes will be conducted in Chinese.