Problems and Reflections in the Elementary Level of International Chinese Teaching

Firstly, this paper reviewed descriptions of elementary level of teaching Chinese as a foreign language in programmatic documents as well as related discussions in the educational circles, aiming to depict natures and characteristics of the elementary level of international Chinese teaching. It is generally acknowledged that the elementary level of teaching is a kind of "reinforcement" and "practical" teaching, which is characteristic of " short time, extensive contents and high requirements". Secondly, we conclude that high student loss rate and low teaching efficiency are two major constraints against elementary level of Chinese teaching. Moreover, causes of these challenges were discussed from the perspective of learners, teaching philosophy, teaching method and Chinese characteristics. Finally, the teaching method and model for elementary level as well as corresponding problems and shortcomings were reflected. We pointed out the significance of formulaic language on elementary level teaching.