Self-Promotion Art: Practical Chinese Writing

Self-Promotion Art: Practical Chinese Writing

Course Description

In the era of self-media, writing skills for self-expression are key to maximizing personal influence. This course begins with an overview of the features and styles of four types of writing: descriptive, narrative, explanatory, and argumentative. The course then moves on to teach the principles of composing various documents, including resumes, project proposals, critiques and introductions, and micro writing. The ultimate goal is to assist students in effectively utilizing language to emphasize their attributes and thoughts.

 

Course Objectives

  • Through various writing exercises, students will learn to adapt their communication style according to different writing purposes and attributes of articles.
  • Through conducting peer discussions and receiving feedback, students will cultivate their awareness as a critical reader.
  • By analyzing sample texts and studying teacher feedback, students will become familiar with the linguistic characteristics of Chinese language, hence reinforcing their self-awareness and self-editing skills in writing.

 

Weekly Schedule

Week Course Content
Week 1 Course Introduction & Writing Warm-up Activity
Week 2 Understanding the textual features of Descriptive, Narrative, Explanatory, and Argumentative Writing
Week 3 Theme 1: Autobiography for General Purposes (My Story)
Week 4
Week 5 Theme 1: Job Application Autobiography
Week 6 Theme 2: Project Proposal (Topic Selection and Planning)
Week 7 Theme 2: Project Proposal (Case Analysis)
Week 8 General and Professional Autobiography: Reflection and Observation
Week 9 Theme 2: Project Proposal Presentation
Week 10 Theme 2: Project Proposal (Tips for Writing)
Week 11 Project Proposal Practice: Observation and Discussion
Week 12 Theme 3: Book Review and Introduction
Week 13
Week 14 Book Review and Introduction: Observation and Practice
Week 15 Theme 4: Micro Writing (Part 1) – Copywriting and Headlines
Week 16 Theme 4: Micro Writing (Part 2) – Social Media Short Articles

 

Others

  • Attendance is mandatory, with NO MORE THAN THREE absences (including excused absences) throughout the semester. Punctuality is expected.
  • Active participation in discussions and group collaboration is highly valued.
  • Impromptu writing and post-class assignments, including both group and individual tasks, will be given. Every practice assignment may be discussed and shared with classmates; constructive criticism is encouraged.
  • All writing assignments in this course must be original, and proper citation is required. Plagiarism, if detected, will result in a failing grade for the semester.

 

Grading Policy

Types of Assessment Weighting Descriptions of Assessment
Class Discussion & Participation 20% Each class includes activities or group discussions related to the weekly theme. Students are required to participate proactively.
In-Class Assignments 20% Each writing theme includes an in-class assignment, totaling four assignments, each accounting for 5%.
Writing Performance 60% There are three writing assignments included in total:
(1) Individual Assignments:
1. Life story or job application autobiography (15%)
2. Book review or introduction (20%)
(2) Group Collaborative Assignment:
3. Project proposal (25%)