[062] MTSU’s Confucius Institute sponsors Chinese classes, after-school program

MURFREESBORO — The Confucius Institute at MTSU is offering a variety of Chinese language programs for all skill levels starting Aug. 24, as well as an after-school program, during the fall 2013 semester.

Classes in beginning and intermediate Chinese for adults will be offered from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. each Saturday. Advanced Chinese classes for adults will take place from 10:40 a.m. to 12:40 p.m. each Saturday.

A course in elementary Chinese for children is designed for youngsters age 5 to 12 who have studied Chinese for one semester or have some knowledge of the language. These classes are slated for 10:40 a.m. to 12:40 p.m. each Saturday.

Two sections of Chinese for children from Chinese-heritage families are offered. One is slated for 10:40 a.m. to 12:40 p.m. The other will run from 2 to 4 p.m.

These sections are tailored to children who can listen and speak Chinese fairly well and want to expand their skills in reading and writing Chinese. They must have received at least one semester of formal language instruction. A placement test will be given for the assignment of the appropriate class.

The after-school program will be available each Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. It introduces the Chinese language with a focus on basic conversation, entry-level vocabulary and writing. Students will develop communication skills through formal teaching and fun activities such as songs, crafts and games.

All courses will take place at Peck Hall. Come to Room 106 in Peck Hall on the first day of class to learn class locations.

Tuition is $150 plus a $15 materials fee for the after-school program and all language classes except adult intermediate Chinese, which has a $140 tuition and a $15 materials fee.

A 50 percent tuition discount is available for MTSU faculty and staffers. Children and grandchildren of faculty and staffers will get a 25 percent tuition discount. MTSU students may attend classes for no charge.

Need-based scholarships are available. Tuition is nonrefundable after the first two sessions for all courses. To register or for more information, contact the Confucius Institute at 615-494-8696 or cimtsu@mtsu.edu or visit www.mtsu.edu/cimtsu.