We will explore some aspects of the Chinese language through the lens of cultural aspects deeply rooted in Chinese life, with no prior knowledge of Chinese language necessary. We will examine a range of Chinese sayings and expressions around five topics and cultural aspects, including Chinese language and dialects, history, art and literature, traditional festivals and modern China. By the end of the course, you will have a better understanding of modern Chinese language and culture, and how these have been influnced by China's long history and traditions.
Chinese: Language through Cultural Exploration
This is an in-person course which requires your attendance at the weekly meetings which take place in Oxford.
Overview
Programme details
Courses starts: 21 Apr 2026
Week 1: Chinese Language and dialects.
Through studying a selection of Chinese expressions, we will discuss some of the languages and dialects spoken in Mainland China, and the evolution of Chinese characters from the Oracle Bone Script to the present. We will also look into the Wade-Giles romanisation system, Pinyin and Chinese keyboard, and the creation of Putonghua.
Week 2: Chinese history
Through examining a selection of Chinese sayings and expressions, we'll look into the timeline of Chinese history, influential pre-Qin philosophers Mozi, Laozi and Kongzi and notable historical sites. We'll also briefly explore the Silk Road as well as the Boxer's Movement. This week will conclude with the abdication of the Last Emperor and the establishment of the Republic under Sun Yat Sen.
Week 3: Chinese Art and Literature
This session will introduce a selection of Chinese linguistic elements to explore Chinese art and the application of Chinese calligraphy in the fashion industry, sculptures in Buddhist grottos, and Peking Opera. We will also cover some of the early Chinese myths, Book of Songs, Tang and Song Poems, and the modern application of the literary work 'The Monkey King' in the computer game 'Black Myth: Wukong', and the film Ne Zha.
Week 4: Major Chinese Traditional Festivals
Through a selection of Chinese sayings and expressions, this session will cover customs and traditions of five major festivals including the Chinese Spring Festivals, Qing Ming and Qi Xi - the Chinese-equivalent to St Valentine's Day. Discussions of these festivals will include relevant food and myths.
Week 5: Modern China since 1949
This session will cover linguistic expressions relating to modern China's timeline and significant events from the birth of the Chinese Communist Party and the establishment of the People's Republic of China from 1949 through to 2001. We will briefly consider some of the following topics: One Child policy, urbanisation, China's education system, transportation, as well as the use of mobile phones and social media.
Recommended reading
All weekly class students may become borrowing members of the Rewley House Continuing Education Library for the duration of their course. Prospective students whose courses have not yet started are welcome to use the Library for reference. More information can be found on the Library website.
There is a Guide for Weekly Class students which will give you further information.
Certification
Digital badge
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be issued with an official digital badge from the Department for Continuing Education, University of Oxford. After the course, you will receive an email with a link and instructions on how to download your digital badge. You will be able to add your badge to your email signature and share it on social media if you choose to do so. In order to be issued with your badge, you will need to have attended at least 80% of the course.
Fees
| Description | Costs |
|---|---|
| Course fee | £180.00 |
Funding
If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit, you are a full-time student in the UK or a student on a low income, you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees. Please see the below link for full details:
Tutor
Mrs Zhao Godfrey
Born in the city of Tangshan in North China, Huiqiu Zhao studied English at the University of Shandong. She has been working as a language tutor, freelance translator, interpreter, and examiner in the UK since 1995.
Course aims
You will acquire a basic knowledge of the Chinese language through exploration of some cultural aspects deeply rooted in Chinese life, thereby gaining a better understanding of China.
Course objectives:
- introduce Pinyin to pronounce Chinese characters and use computer keyboards to input some Chinese characters.
- examine the difference between Chinese languages and dialects.
- explore major Chinese traditional festivals, Chinese history, and Chinese literature and art as well as the use of social media.
- discuss how China's long history and culture continue to shape modern China.
Teaching methods
Each two hour course session will be delivered in two parts: the first part will be delivered in the format of a seminar in English, and the second part will be delivered in the format of a more traditional learning and discussion where there is the opportunity to learn Chinese language, followed by discussions and group activities. PPT and selected articles will be used as teaching materials. Source materials will be provided for further study.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- recognise the relationship between Pinyin and Chinese characters.
- identify a basic set of characters and use a set of basic greetings and Chinese expressions.
- place major dynasties, events and philosophers in the timeline of Chinese history.
Assessment methods
This course is non-accredited, so there are no assessments.
Application
Please use the 'Book now' button on this page. Alternatively, please complete an Enrolment form for short courses | Oxford University Department for Continuing Education
Level and demands
The Department's Weekly Classes are taught at first year undergraduate level.