Rotterdam | Beginner 1 – Back to the Basics: Pen & Paper Mandarin

你好!

Welcome to the Back to the Basics: Pen & Paper Mandarin 

A focused, screen‑free introduction to Mandarin Chinese.

Curious about learning Chinese and ready to build a strong foundation? Beginner 1 – Back to the Basics is designed for absolute beginners who want to learn Mandarin Chinese from the ground up — the traditional way.

In this course, we truly go back to the basics. Classes take place in a focused, distraction‑free classroom, using printed textbooks, notebooks, and pens only. By removing screens, we create space for concentration, interaction, and a deeper understanding of the language.

What will you learn?

You will learn the fundamentals of Mandarin Chinese, including:

  • Pinyin pronunciation
  • Basic Chinese characters
  • Essential vocabulary for everyday situations

From the very start, you will practice simple conversations and actively use the language in an interactive classroom environment. Our experienced teachers provide personal feedback and guidance, ensuring steady progress and growing confidence.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for:

  • Absolute beginners in Mandarin Chinese
  • Learners who value structured, classroom‑based learning
  • Students preparing for the official HSK 1 exam

Start your Chinese journey now!

Course Duration

  • 15 lessons of 1 hour and 45 mins each
  • 50 hours of self‑study are recommended

This course is intended for students with no prior knowledge or basic knowledge of the Chinese language. Throughout the course, all key language skills are covered: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

 

Class Course date (Thursdays 19:15-21:00)
1 March 5, 2026
2 March 12, 2026
3 March 19, 2026
4 March 26, 2026
5 April 2, 2026
6 April 9, 2026
7 April 16, 2026
8 April 23, 2026
9 May 7, 2026
10 May 21, 2026
11 May 28, 2026
12 June 4, 2026
13 June 11, 2026
14 June 18, 2026
15 June 25, 2026

Instruction language

This course is taught by one of our experienced teachers in Chinese/English.

Study material

The study materials for the Chinese Advanced 1 course are included in the course price.

Important information
For each course we use a minimum number of 5 and a maximum number of 8 students. If a course cannot start, we will inform you in a timely manner and we will refund your course fee.

Contact

Questions or something unclear? Get in touch with our teacher in Rotterdam:

  • Tianzhao Li
  • tianzhao.li@zuyd.nl
  • +31(0)43 346 6605
  • Course location: Diergaardesingel 101, 3014 DB Rotterdam, Netherlands

268.00

March 5, 2026
Thursday 19:15-21:00

Fully booked