Chinese I Syllabus
Mr. Gierut 关老师
Room 216
thomas.gierut@woodbridge.k12.nj.us
Course Description: Our Chinese I class will focus on enhancing students’ communication skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, while developing their cultural awareness. The main focus of this class will be expanding the student’s understanding of how the Chinese language works grammatically and how to use Chinese in real life. Be prepared for discussion-based learning, pair-work, individual work, group-work, research, and project-based learning.
Success in this class will be achieved through active participation, a consistent work ethic, and by adhering to the classroom rules.
Course Content
Statement and Philosophy
I am a certified Mandarin Chinese and Social Studies Teacher, passionate and motivated about teaching and learning. With an advanced-high level of proficiency in Mandarin, verified by Language Testing International, I am currently pursuing my Master of Arts for Teachers (M.A.T.) degree in Chinese Studies at Rutgers University–New Brunswick. Previously, I worked as a Social Studies Teacher at Northvale Public School, where I provided diverse and engaging activities that catered to different learning styles and abilities of my 7th and 8th-grade students. My focus was on US history, emphasizing critical thinking, inquiry, and civic participation. I also have experience tutoring 9th-grade students in Mandarin Chinese at BrainStorm Tutoring, LLC, where I helped them improve their speaking, writing, and reading skills through interactive and fun methods.
My philosophy is that a good teacher takes student feedback and criticism seriously and implements changes accordingly. They also learn from their students who are taking part in the lesson. A truly outstanding teacher understands that the lesson is a learning experience for both the learners as well as the educator.
Grading: Each semester grade is broken down by the following:
Major Assessments - 50%
Minor Assessments - 50%
All assignments are due on the assigned date found in the grade book unless stated otherwise. You will lose 5 points each day the work is late.
Technology: School Laptops (NO PERSONAL DEVICES) are expected to be charged and used for academic purposes only. Failure to comply with this rule will result in you losing the privilege of computer use, and classroom assignments for that day will be completed on paper.
Cell phones are not to be used in the classroom or online under any circumstances. Unrequested filming or pictures will be brought to the attention of the school administration.
Attendance: Every student is expected to arrive at the classroom on time. Students must immediately go to their seats when they enter the classroom. However, students will be given a short 3 minute ‘free period’ before each class to prepare their desks/computers/zoom calls for the class, quietly speak to their neighbors (while sitting at their desks), and answer the “Do Now” question that will be found on the board. Late passes are needed for late entry to class.
Absences resulting in missed tests and quizzes must be scheduled on your own by the earliest possible date through email.
When entering the room, students must adhere to the code of conduct outlined in the student handbook.
These rules include, but are not limited to:
Respect Everyone: Be kind, polite, and respectful to classmates and the teacher.
Be Prepared: Come to class on time with all necessary supplies and completed homework.
Dress Appropriately: Follow the school dress code.
Professional Behavior: Use appropriate language and actions at all times.
Listen Attentively: Be quiet and attentive when the teacher or classmates are speaking.
Respect Property: Take care of school property and classroom materials.
No Cheating: Complete your own work with integrity.
Availability: I will be available after school Tuesday and Thursday until 3:00 for extra help and makeup tests/quizzes. Please do your best to email me the day before you plan on stopping in for a session to guarantee your spot. It would also allow me to prepare any materials.
Class Resources:
Integrated Chinese Textbook
Duolingo
Mandarin Corner
Du Chinese
Optional Free Resources to Study on your Own Time:
Duolingo
Mandarin Corner (Optional Paid Subscription for Extra Resources) https://www.youtube.com/@MandarinCorner2 and https://mandarincorner.org/
Optional Paid Resources to Study on your Own Time:
Hello Chinese (Highly Recommended)
Hello Talk
Mandarin Corner (Optional Paid Subscription for Extra Resources) https://www.youtube.com/@MandarinCorner2 and https://mandarincorner.org/
Du Chinese https://duchinese.net/