The teaching of classical Chinese prose in Singapore involves challenges peculiar to the bilingual environment, which suggest a need for new strategies based on a crucial recognition of the difference between teaching literature and teaching language. The problem arguably lies as much with the formulaic teaching method as with the lack of knowledge and interest among students. This paper will start by distinguishing between some concepts, such as “Ancient Chinese” (文言文), “Ancient Prose” (古代散文) and “Classical Chinese Prose” (古文), based on their special characteristics, in order to determine the basic premises in teaching of respective genres. It then argues for a key pedagogical approach based on the teaching of literary aspects in ancient prose with the help of problem-based learning. This would also involve systematic classification to consolidate different strategies suited for different types of Classical Chinese Prose. These strategies include mind mapping, five thinking hats and so on. Through an approach of problem-based learning, one may motivate students to explore ancient articles more enthusiastically, foster their critical thinking and creative ability, thereby enhancing cognitive ability, and increasing their interest in learning ancient articles. Through the reading, understanding and analysis of subtle words, one may improve on students’ ability in literary appreciation, and prompt them to explore more sophisticated interpretation, thereby enhancing their cultivation in the humanities.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Teaching of Classical Chinese Prose Under Bilingual Environment in Singapore

  • Jia Li

摘要

The teaching of classical Chinese prose in Singapore involves challenges peculiar to the bilingual environment, which suggest a need for new strategies based on a crucial recognition of the difference between teaching literature and teaching language. The problem arguably lies as much with the formulaic teaching method as with the lack of knowledge and interest among students. This paper will start by distinguishing between some concepts, such as “Ancient Chinese” (文言文), “Ancient Prose” (古代散文) and “Classical Chinese Prose” (古文), based on their special characteristics, in order to determine the basic premises in teaching of respective genres. It then argues for a key pedagogical approach based on the teaching of literary aspects in ancient prose with the help of problem-based learning. This would also involve systematic classification to consolidate different strategies suited for different types of Classical Chinese Prose. These strategies include mind mapping, five thinking hats and so on. Through an approach of problem-based learning, one may motivate students to explore ancient articles more enthusiastically, foster their critical thinking and creative ability, thereby enhancing cognitive ability, and increasing their interest in learning ancient articles. Through the reading, understanding and analysis of subtle words, one may improve on students’ ability in literary appreciation, and prompt them to explore more sophisticated interpretation, thereby enhancing their cultivation in the humanities.