No prior knowledge of the language. Declaration is required. This is an elementary Chinese course for beginners with no previous knowledge of the language. It aims to introduce Chinese language and culture through practical use of the language to students. The learning activities are designed to develop students? listening, speaking, reading and writing skills and gradually build up students' confidence in using Putonghua for daily communication. In order to establish a solid foundation for long-term study, the learning of Chinese characters is an essential part of this course.