Beginner Chinese
初级中文 (Chūjí Zhōngwén)
HSK 1-2 • beginner • 80-120 hours for HSK 1-2 proficiency
Expand your Chinese foundation with essential vocabulary, fundamental grammar patterns, and practical communication skills. This level prepares you for basic daily interactions and builds confidence in using Chinese in real-world situations.
Learning Objectives
Master 300-600 core vocabulary words
Use basic grammar patterns for daily communication
Engage in simple conversations about familiar topics
Read and write 150-300 Chinese characters
Handle basic practical situations (shopping, dining, directions)
Key Milestones
Conduct 5-minute conversations on familiar topics
Read simple texts with 80% comprehension
Write basic paragraphs about daily life
Navigate shopping and dining situations
Understand and use basic time expressions
Practice Activities
Role-play daily situations (restaurant, shopping, directions)
Character writing practice with stroke order
Listening exercises with native speaker audio
Reading simple stories and news articles
Grammar pattern substitution drills
Level Content
Sample Vocabulary
to like
我喜欢吃中国菜。
I like to eat Chinese food.
work, job
你的工作怎么样？
How is your job?
time
现在几点？
What time is it now?
friend
这是我的好朋友。
This is my good friend.
Sample Characters
好
hǎo
good, well
吃
chī
to eat
家
jiā
home, family
Cultural Focus Areas
• Chinese meal etiquette and food culture
• Importance of relationships (guanxi) in Chinese society
• Proper ways to decline invitations politely
• Understanding Chinese concept of time and punctuality
Assessment Criteria
Fluent conversation on practiced topics
Correct use of basic grammar patterns
Character recognition and writing accuracy
Cultural appropriateness in communication
Real World Applications
Traveling in China as a tourist
Basic workplace communication
Making Chinese friends and socializing
Understanding Chinese media and entertainment
Participating in Chinese cultural events
Start Learning Beginner Chinese
Estimated time: 80-120 hours for HSK 1-2 proficiency.