Chinese 1A is an overall introduction to the Chinese language, offering students a focused study of elementary level conversation, reading, writing, and listening comprehension. The class is designed both for students without any previous training and for those with minimal background wishing to improve fluency. Classes include lectures, grammar pattern drills, role playing, presentations, games, and field trips into the Chinese community. Regular attendance and class preparation is required to keep up with the pace of theclass and to build the foundation needed for more advanced study. 12 students maximum.
Application deadline: June 18. Tuition + Registration $150; Room + Board $375

Chinese 1AB is designed for students who have learned pinyin, who can use approximately 100 Chinese words in daily conversation, and who are able to write 40-50 characters from memory. The class provides an accelerated review of the basics for those who have previously studied one year of Chinese. For non-native Chinese speakers, the class will assist in developing writing and reading skills. Classes will include lectures, grammar pattern drills, role playing, presentations, games, and writing exercises. Regular attendance and class preparation is required to keep up with the pace of the class and to build the foundation needed for more advanced study. 12 students maximum.
Application deadline: June 18. Tuition + Registration $150; Room + Board $375

This course will cover selected readings of classical Chinese from the Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist classics. Classes will be discussion-based. Lectures will be conducted primarily in Chinese; English translation may be provided as needed. Students are expected to have intermediate proficiency of Chinese language. Readings include, but not limited to, Works by Mencius [孟子], Tractate of the Most High One on Actions and Consequences [太上感應篇], and the Ten Wholesome Ways of Action Sutra [佛說十善業道經].
Application deadline: June 18. Tuition + Registration $60

The friendship between the famous poet Su Shi 蘇軾 [1037-1101 CE], also known as Su Dongpo, and the eminent Chan monk Foyin Liaoyuan 佛印了元 [1032-1098 CE] is arguably the most celebrated example of the spiritual and artistic exchange between scholar and Buddhist monk known today. This course is an introduction to the earliest primary records and textual exchanges of Su Shi and Foyin. We will read and discuss some of the letters and poems Su Shi wrote to Foyin, as well as analyze the anecdotes of their encounters as recorded by Master Huihong 釋惠洪 in the Xu Zang Jing [Supplement to the Tripitika]. All students will be encouraged to try to read the original Chinese texts, but English translations will be provided as needed. Prerequisite: Some classical Chinese recommended; ability to use Chinese dictionaries required.
Application deadline: June 18. Tuition + Registration $45