Learning Objectives: Basic knowledge of pronunciation and writing; being able to independently deduce the stroke order and direction for new characters.

Concept: Following an introduction to phonetics and the Pinyin transcription, there is a practice section that familiarizes learners with the entire syllable inventory of Standard Chinese. Initial and final sounds, as well as the four tones, are systematically practiced. All pronunciation exercises are printed in the practice section, allowing learners to learn the Pinyin transcription while listening to the CD. With the help of listening tasks, learners can subsequently practice distinguishing individual initial and final sounds, as well as the four tones. The introduction to Chinese writing provides a brief history of the script from its beginnings to the simplified forms used in the People's Republic of China. Additionally, the structure of characters is explained with rules regarding stroke order and direction.