A content analysis of the New Practical Chinese Reader I for beginner Chinese language learners: shortcomings and recommendations

Han Lin

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

    Abstract

    Chinese textbooks are often the first media to systematically present Chinese culture to students of Chinese as a foreign language. This chapter aims to evaluate the cultural content of a very popular textbook, namely New Practical Chinese Reader I (NPCR-I) (beginner level), and in doing so identify its shortcomings and provide recommendations for improvement. It adapts Hatoss’s (2004) model of culture evaluation of language textbooks as the main method of evaluation, progressing through each lesson of NPCR-I. This analysis is supplemented with the author’s classroom observations, teaching diary and student feedback. Based on these findings, this chapter argues that NPCR-I has many weaknesses in terms of logical arrangement of cultural content, authenticity of expression, and appropriate cultural reflection. Therefore, it should be modified extensively to meet learners’ requirements and facilitate the acquisition of authentic Chinese language and culture. It suggests that this can be done through introducing conversations with a more logical order for beginners; presenting a realistic image of contemporary Chinese culture and linking content to current language usage trends and habits in China. Such changes will enhance student understanding of Chinese culture at the beginner level.

    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationCurrent Issues in Reading, Writing and Visual Literacy
    Subtitle of host publicationResearch and Practice
    EditorsChristina Gitsaki, Melanie Taylor Gobert, Helene Christina Demirci
    PublisherCambridge Scholars Publishing
    Chapter8
    Pages117-133
    Number of pages17
    ISBN (Electronic)9781443885591
    ISBN (Print)9781443880305
    Publication statusPublished - 2015

    Keywords

    • Chinese as a second language
    • Chinese language
    • Textbooks

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