Chinese 1 (A0 → A1-)
Get your first start with Chinese: learn the basics of pinyin, characters and simple expressions. You’ll discover how the language works and work toward level A1-.
About the Chinese 1 course for beginners
Do you want to learn Chinese to broaden your horizons or challenge yourself? In this beginner’s course, you’ll build a solid foundation. Did you know, for example, that a single syllable in Chinese can have many different meanings? That’s because the meaning depends on the tone with which it’s pronounced and its position in the sentence. Sounds, intonation, and pitch therefore form the foundation of the Chinese language. You’ll be introduced to the five sounds of Chinese and the Pinyin transcription system. This is the transcription of Standard Mandarin using Latin letters, just as you’re accustomed to. For example, you’ll learn how to pronounce Pinyin, how to identify the root of a verb, and how to indicate the pitch (and thus the meaning) of a syllable. Are you curious about what else you’ll learn?
In 9 lessons of Chinese:
- you are familiar with the phonetic system and can pronounce every syllable in Pinyin;
- do you understand the strokes of Chinese characters and the rules for writing them;
- you can greet people, introduce yourself, and ask how they’re doing;
- you’ll learn to count in Chinese;
- Are you familiar with common Chinese expressions?
- You can type characters on your computer and phone.
In this course, you will work toward language level A1-. By the end of the course, you will understand how the Chinese language works and have laid a solid foundation for further learning. After this course, you can continue with Chinese Course 2 (A1 → A1).
Time investment
Sessions
This course consists of 9 meetings.
Lesson duration
Each class lasts 90 minutes.
Frequency
In this course, you will have classes once a week.
Self-study
You spend 2-3 hours per week on self-study.
Who is it for?
The Chinese 1 course is designed for those who have not learned Chinese before. You want to challenge yourself and be able to use Chinese in the future for work, study or travel. The language of instruction during the course is Dutch and the textbook is in English. During the course you will work actively and independently on your learning goals, both in class and during self-study.
Determine your language level
Would you like to know which course is best suited to your language level? We would be happy to help you! Take our free placement test and receive personal advice so that you get the most out of the course.
Do you prefer to take classes in a different format? Check out the options.
Private lesson
One-on-one
Want to make faster progress with personal attention? With 1-on-1 lessons, you’ll receive customized guidance tailored to your learning goals and pace.
Business
With your colleagues
Looking for a course for your team or organization? Choose a hands-on customized course that is fully aligned with your organization’s goals.
Schedule
View the schedule for the different start dates here:
Pricing
Course price: € 295,-
Excluding course materials
A language course is an investment in yourself. In your self-confidence. In your future in the Netherlands or beyond. That’s why we at Babel work with you to figure out the costs. You don’t always have to pay for a course yourself. Sometimes DUO helps out. Sometimes your employer does. And sometimes you get a discount. Find out what’s possible for you. Read more about the Funding for your course.
Method
Our teaching method combines a structured approach with hands-on working methods. The lessons are active, personal, varied and practical. There is always attention for your learning style, pace and level. Curious about how we design this course?
Approach
You work alternately in class, in pairs and individually. Each lesson starts with a review of the previous meeting and discussion of homework. Then you actively practice speaking, listening and writing in realistic situations.
Teaching Materials
You work with the book New Practical Chinese Reader vol.1 Textbook and Workbook, supplemented by audiovisual materials and apps. This way you will learn the language in a modern and practical way. Before the start of the course, we will inform you how you can easily order the learning materials, so that you can start your lesson well prepared.
Teachers
You will be taught by an experienced teacher who will personally guide you and help you get the best out of yourself. Because of the open atmosphere, you will learn not only from the teacher, but also from the experiences of other students.
Certificate of Participation
You will receive a certificate of participation from us if you have actively participated in at least 80% of the meetings.
Do you have a question?
info@babel.nl 
030 227 0008 
Course details
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which Chinese language level suits me?
Can I make up a missed Chinese class?
Can I pay for my Chinese course in installments?
What are the advantages of a group language course?
What is a virtual classroom?