Curriculum Highlights

Is fluency without accuracy really fluency?

We say no. The emphasis at Princeton in Beijing is on fluency through accuracy, on building a solid foundation in pronunciation and syntax that enables students to strive for genuine fluency in the Chinese language. The stress on accuracy, integrated with the Beijing language environment, is one of the unique features of Princeton in Beijing.

Because our total immersion program is located in Beijing, students are able to take advantage of two distinct language environments. The first is the natural environment of Beijing, in which students can freely practice their language skills, especially speaking and listening, with and among the people of China. The second is the classroom environment in which students will be able to take full advantage of structured presentation and rigorous language training. This combination allows students to learn the language in the classroom and to master it on the streets of Beijing.

Language Pledge

In order to maintain the ideal language environment for every student in the program, all students are required to sign a pledge stating that they will use only Mandarin Chinese for the duration of the program. The pledge is a crucial part of the learning process. Violations will lead to expulsion from the program.

Chinese Table

Another special feature of the program is "Chinese table," offered twice a week. These occasions give students an opportunity to practice Chinese with their teachers and to get to know them better. For other meals, students are encouraged to explore the eating options (and language environments) both on and off campus.

Photo submitted by Richie Hyunh