The Mandarin program provides students with an optimized learning environment according to their ability and experience with the language . These levels are defined as follows :
• Mandarin 9 : a stand-alone exposure course to the Mandarin language and Chinese culture .
• Mandarin 10 , 11 , 12 program : a dynamic program for students with limited or no previous experience with the language .
• Mandarin 11 ( 10 A ) - 12 ( 11 A ) - AP program : an intensive program for students with an advanced Mandarin background or a strong Mandarin linguistic proficiency . These students move through the curriculum at a fast pace and will normally complete the Grade 12 program in their Grade 11 year .
Decisions about a change in placement are considered in exceptional circumstances early in the school year with the permission of the Department Head and teacher recommendations .
MANDARIN 9
Prerequisite
Course Credit Course Duration Delivery Method
None
N / A 1 semester Classroom-based leading towards AP Chinese Language and Culture . Assessment includes interpretive , interpersonal , and presentational modes of communication .
MANDARIN 10
Prerequisite
Course Credit Course Duration Delivery Method
Assessment by the department
4 credits Full year Classroom-based
Mandarin 10 is an introductory course designed to help students become familiar with basic vocabulary and expressions in everyday situations . The course emphasizes pronunciation using the pinyin system , communicative interaction , listening comprehension , writing of key Chinese characters with correct stroke orders , and basic grammatical structures . Students are also encouraged to explore their family backgrounds and cultural identities / comparisons to support the learning of a new culture . Assessment includes interpretive , interpersonal , and presentational modes of communication .
MANDARIN 11 ( 10 ACCELERATED )
Mandarin 9 is designed for students who show an interest in exploring Chinese language and culture . Students learn the fundamental skills of the target language through interactive activities : role play , skits , projects , games , videos , songs , and music . Efforts will be made to group students and to differentiate learning to accommodate those who wish to follow the regular path and those who have the interest / ability to follow the accelerated path . Beginners will have a comprehensive exposure to Mandarin and Chinese culture in preparation for future Mandarin courses while those who are interested in following the accelerated path will be better prepared and assessed for accelerated learning
Prerequisite Mandarin 10
Course Credit Course Duration Delivery Method
4 credits Full year Classroom-based
The emphasis of Mandarin 11 ( 10 Accelerated ) is to help students communicate more fluently and effectively in real-life situations by using idiomatic expressions . Students will improve their interpersonal communication skills as well as their abilities to present and interpret language , particularly in reading and writing . Students will also examine and discuss the characteristics of Chinese customs and traditions as well as to
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