Mandarin Program | Concordia International School Shanghai

Mandarin Program

Concordia's Mandarin program nurtures students' Chinese linguistic and cultural talents from Preschool to Grade 12.

Our rigorous curriculum values the unique features of Chinese language and culture, offering multiple course levels tailored to each student’s proficiency.

Beyond language acquisition, our curriculum immerses students in Chinese culture, fostering cultural awareness, identity, and critical thinking. This enriching approach broadens their worldview and enhances literary appreciation.

Teaching Philosophy

Our Mandarin program’s philosophy reflects the school’s mission and vision. We educate students holistically and inspire their curiosity. We are committed to passing on the rich, diverse, and profound aspects of Chinese culture, including Chinese literature and its creative language. Our approach focuses on nurturing every student through a journey of personal and academic growth, fosters a growth mindset, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. We aim to deepen their understanding of Chinese philosophy, values, and history, strengthen their connections to their roots, family values, and traditions, and help them view their identity through a multicultural lens. At Concordia, we offer two pathways to enhance students’ language and cognitive development while preparing them to become effective communicators and active global citizens.

Two Pathways of Mandarin Study

We recognize that language learning is an individualized journey. Students learn languages at different paces and they are recommended for different level courses based on their proficiency skills.

Chinese Language & Literature (CLL)

For: Students with significant exposure to Mandarin and/or those who use Mandarin as a primary language at home.

Focus: Enriching literacy skills and fostering an appreciation for the language’s functionality and aesthetics.

Engagement: Students explore a wide range of literary and informational texts across various genres and cultures.

Standards: The Common Core State Standards and the Chinese National Curriculum Standards served as the key standards for this pathway.

Chinese Language & Culture (CLC)

For: Students with diverse levels of exposure to Mandarin.

Focus: Acquiring linguistic skills and cultural awareness through integrated language and cultural activities.

Skills Development: Proficiency in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational skills.

Standards: The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL) World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages served as the key standards for this pathway.

Samples of The Mandarin Progression Flowchart

Opportunities to Expand Mandarin Learning

In addition to Mandarin courses, extracurricular offerings such as Chinese Club and Chinese Honor Society allow students to develop their knowledge of Chinese culture while enhancing their language and leadership skills. Our heritage Mandarin courses and co-curricular offerings are equally suited for high school students who are coming to Concordia from other top schools.

Extracurricular Program

Our Stories

Grade 8 Students Shine with Pudong Mandarin Showcase

At the 2024–2025 Pudong New Area International Students Mandarin Showcase competition, five Concordia students brought their vision to life with fluent Mandarin and a lively performance. And guess what? They took home third place!

Grade 8 Students Shine with Pudong Mandarin Showcase

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