Module manager: Prof Frances Weightman
Email: f.weightman@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Chinese language skills equivalent to a pass in the LCS Year Abroad (Chinese) module. NB: since a key outcome of this module relates to learning Chinese as a second language, this module is not suitable for native speakers of Chinese.
EAST3051, EAST3052, EAST3070, EAST3080
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module will bridge the language and ‘studies’ modules of the programme, to examine formal written texts within the context in which they were written. We will explore a variety of significant and complex Chinese texts from a range of fields across the humanities and the social sciences relating to modern and contemporary China. Given the contemporary nature of this course, and the particular specialities of staff, the specific individual texts will necessarily vary from year to year. Students will also complete a student-led project which allows them to select a text relevant to their own research, interests or career, and provide an analytical commentary on the text and its context. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
By the end of this module, students will have a greater awareness and understanding of the language of formal documentary and literary Chinese, across a range of subject areas. They will also have a greater understanding of the broader significance of the particular texts studied, and of the socio-historical context in which they were produced. The module will be run in student-led seminar-style classes. These will consist of close readings of these texts, and discussion of implied meanings and the contexts from which they were produced.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes specific to the subject:
1. Critique and investigate a range of complex and specialised Chinese texts within their specific socio-cultural and historical contexts
2. Select appropriate approaches to understanding context-specific Chinese texts and articulate and evaluate their meaning and significance
3. Formulate both English and Chinese accurately in translation tasks, with correct spelling and grammar
4. Select and critique a Chinese text related to their own chosen special area of interest, research, or future career
5. Improve data and media literacy (including the use of AI assistance) through critical analysis of core texts, and through location and handling of self-selected text
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 2 | 0.2 | 0.4 |
| Seminar | 21 | 2 | 42 |
| Private study hours | 157.6 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 42.4 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
The classes are run as student-centred discussions with ample opportunities for oral feedback on interpretation and analysis of texts. Each student is also offered 2 supervision meetings on their individual project.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Commentary | 25 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 25 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) (S1) | 2.0 Hrs Mins | 75 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 75 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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