Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/learn-intermediate-chinese-mandarin

Unveiling Taiwan: A Unique Language Journey

Learning a language is not just about grammar and vocabulary; it’s about immersing oneself in the culture and stories that shape the language. The course ‘是誰在說話 — 可愛的臺灣‘ (Who is Speaking – Lovely Taiwan) on Coursera beautifully encapsulates this philosophy by taking learners on a mesmerizing journey through four iconic locations in Taiwan.

Course Overview

This intermediate Chinese course uses Taiwan’s stunning landscapes as a backdrop to teach not only the language but also the rich cultural heritage associated with each site. The course is structured around four weeks, with each week dedicated to a different location, blending fascinating narratives with language learning. From the charming lantern-lit streets of Jiufen to the serene beauty of Orchid Island, each lesson is a delightful experience.

Detailed Syllabus Breakdown

• Week 1 – Jiufen’s Lanterns (九份的燈籠): Explore the nostalgic atmosphere of Jiufen, once a gold mining town, now a glittering tourist hotspot. The lessons not only teach vocabulary related to this charming locale but deftly weave historical context into the narrative.
• Week 2 – The Secret of Shi Gan Dang (石敢當的秘密): Venture into Lugang, where you’ll uncover the spiritual tales surrounding its historic temples and the mesmerizing architecture that carries centuries of stories.
• Week 3 – Romance Under the Setting Sun (安平夕陽的黃昏戀曲): Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan, offers lessons steeped in nostalgia. Here, you’ll learn about its rich history while examining the influence of time on its culture and architecture.
• Week 4 – The Promise of the Flying Fish King and the Tao Elder (飛魚王與達悟族長老的約定): Finally, discover the untouched beauty of Orchid Island, immersing yourself in the pristine nature and traditional lifestyle that starkly contrasts modern Taiwanese cities.

Why This Course Stands Out

The innovative approach of using non-human protagonists to narrate these historical tales is refreshing. It makes language learning more engaging as students follow scripts rich with dialogues instead of dry textbook examples. The combination of cultural education, historical context, and language practice enhances learning and retention.

Recommendation

If you are an intermediate Chinese learner or someone who simply loves Taiwan and its culture, this course is highly recommended. Not only will you improve your language skills, but you’ll also gain a much deeper appreciation for Taiwan’s history and diversity. The engaging content and effective teaching strategies make it a worthwhile investment in your language learning journey.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning to visit Taiwan or just want to enhance your language skills while exploring a beautiful culture, ‘是誰在說話 — 可愛的臺灣‘ is a delightful course that offers a unique blend of language learning and cultural exploration.

Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/learn-intermediate-chinese-mandarin