Registration opens for Chinese language classes at Confucius Institute

December 30th, 2008

SMITHFIELD, R.I.  — Bryant University's Confucius Institute is offering to the public two courses in Chinese language - one for youngsters in grades K-12, the other for adults.

The Chinese Language Class for Young Learners will be held on the Bryant campus every Monday from 5:30-7 p.m. beginning on Feb. 2. The class, which runs for 15 weeks, is intended to introduce students to basic conversational Chinese as well as reading and writing skills. Emphasis will be given to immersing participants in the language and providing a good foundation in essential phrases and common vocabulary. The course will also incorporate Chinese cultural issues associated with the language.

The Chinese Language Class for Adults focuses on conversational Chinese while helping participants build a solid foundation for long-term language learning. It will focus on practical language skills that are applicable to social and business activities. This 12-week course will meet on the Bryant campus every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. beginning Feb. 4.

The cost for the Young Learners class is $300 per person, which includes textbooks. The cost of the class for adults is $550 per person, which includes textbooks, access to the Confucius Institute Library, tutoring by native Mandarin speakers at Bryant, attendance at Bryant's China Speaker Series, and cultural celebrations offered through Bryant University's U.S.-China Institute.

The deadline to register for either course is Friday, Jan. 23, 2009. Space is limited. For more information or to receive a registration form, contact Ms. Kun Xie at 401-232-6883, send e-mail to kxie@bryant.edu, or visit the website.

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Keywords: Chinese language, Confucius Institute, U.S.- China Institute