A Perspective on the College English Teaching Syllabus in China

Abstract

The revised Chinese College English Teaching Syllabus (1986) is described, & problems associated with its implementation are discussed. The syllabus consists of two stages; in the first (ie, rudimentary) stage students are required to take a 2-year English course focusing on intensive & extensive reading, rapid reading, focused listening, & writing. In the second (ie, specialty reading) stage students are given guidance in reading technical English publications related to their specialties for 3 semesters. Although the revised syllabus has made a positive contribution to the teaching of English to non-English majors in China, several problems are noted. The rudimentary stage fails to adequately prepare students for the demands of reading technical English; writing levels are vaguely defined & there is insufficient attention paid to developing oral skills. Finally, because many colleges have made the passing of an English proficiency test their top priority, teachers tend to teach toward that goal. 6 References. Adapted from the source document