This course explores the Chinese language as it functions within diverse social and political contexts. The course examines specific socio-linguistic phenomena such as: dialects and regionalects, language policy and language reform, the politicization of language, language and gender, the evolution of Modern Standard Chinese and its relationship to other Chinese languages, phoneticization of Chinese characters, social motivation and language change, grammar and social meaning.

Assignment work (totaling 60%) and a final examination (totaling 40%).

32 contact hours per semester

Course conducted subject to enrolments.

Elementary knowledge of Mandarin Chinese (equivalent to first-year Chinese) is highly recommended for success at this course.

Permission of Coordinator