CHINESE CHARACTERS TEACHING THROUTH INTERESTING STORIES FOR FOREIGN BEGINNERS

Abstract

Recognizing and practicing writing Chinese characters is one of the most important steps in Chinese elementary teaching and learning. International beginers of Chinese as well as those in Vietnam find it difficult to learn Chinese characters; especially learning by heart or rote learning makes it more boring and difficult.  Hence, integrating lively stories can boost the learners’ enthusiasm. Based on reviewing previous research in addition to practical survey, this study investigated Chinese characters studying method of students at School of Foreign Language – Thai Nguyen University. The result pointed out that majority of the students kept traditional studying habits (e.g. learning Chinese characters by heart) rather than modern one - learning through available stories (just account for a minor number of students). This result clarified that students had not yet had a deep understanding of one Chinese character from its structure to its stories. Therfore, it is necessary to pay attention to apply new teaching approach as well as use stories of Chinese characters in teaching beginers.