Speech Communication in Chinese 口语沟通
1SPECHS/006977, Level 1.2 (CHS)

Synposis
This is a foundational module introducing students to the basics of speech communication using Mandarin as a medium as well as Chinese phonetics (汉语拼音).
It will train students to be more effective, articulate, confident, composed and credible speakers in a variety of situations. It is a practical, realistic and inductive approach towards equipping students with necessary skills for refining everyday-conversations. Students will gain confidence through individual, paired and group exercises, as well as emotional awareness and critical thinking skills. They will also be trained to listen attentively.
This module will also explore how communication affects human behavior and social developments. There is strong emphasis on relating to current issues through coursework.
This module will prepare students for Presentation Skills in Chinese (level 2.1). These two modules will allow students to compete in, understand, and provide leadership in a communication-oriented society.

Module Objectives
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to:
1.    gain basic background knowledge to speech communication styles
2.    know the origins and important status of Mandarin as a language
3.    understand basic principles of Chinese phonetics (汉语拼音)
4.    listen and discuss critically, effectively, efficiently, and attentively
5.    conduct basic and meaningful research on approved topics
6.    organize and present materials in a logical and coherent manner
7.    speak standardized or more standardized (标准或比较标准) Mandarin
8.    develop a sense of self-awareness and strength , gain more self-confidence in speech, as well as cultivate a unique individual personality in speech
9.    become articulate and credible speakers in a variety of social settings
10.    develop an interest for Chinese language and be aware of its importance in cultural heritage
11.    be aware of the high expectation in professional attitudes and values for media or education practitioners

课程内容训练目标（参考《教师口语训练课程》）：
语音规范、吐字畅晰、语调适中、节奏合理、
表意准确、措辞贴切、构思周密、详略得当、
角度新颖、见解深刻、反应敏捷、紧扣题旨、表情自然、态势得体。

Duration/Class Contact
15 Weeks/60-hour course
4 hours per week – 1 LECTURE hour & 3 TUTORIAL hours

Assessment
1.    Speech (Individual) SPEIDV 20%
2.    Speech (Group and Interview) SPEGRP 30%
3.    Speech Test (In-class Quizzes) SPETST 20%
4.    Speech Journal (Analysis & Reflection) SPEJRN 30%

These assessments appeal to different learning types and studying strategies:
hearing, seeing (observing), memorizing, speaking, thinking (cognitive), and doing.
Students are expected to take self-initiative, plan and prepare ahead of time.

Written Requirement for Written Work
For all the written assignments students are required to write clearly, concisely and logically using the appropriate words and tone to suit the audience and situation as well as accurately, following the standard conventions for grammar, punctuation and spelling.

All assessed work must be completed and submitted by the stipulated deadlines.
For each day past the deadline, 10% of the total marks will be deducted up to a maximum of five days, after which a zero mark will be given.

Syllabus Content
1.    The Origins of Language and Speech
2.    Speech and Society
3.    Contemporary Mandarin
4.    Four Rules to Successful Communication
5.    Four Pointers to Talking with Strangers
6.    Eight Requirements of a Successful Communicator
7.    Self and Speech Communication
8.    Visual Communication and Presentation
9.    Speech and Learning
10.    Conversational Speech