Reports that by combining a phonetic writing system with instruction in carefully selected clusters of related Chinese characters, Chinese schools can start children on productive reading at an early age with texts closer to their developed cognitive levels. (FL)

Discusses two compulsory reading courses offered simultaneously for English language majors in China: Intensive reading (IR) and extensive reading (ER). Discusses how the role of IR has been challenged over the last two decades. Suggests that IR is still a valuable approach but that teachers need to revise their methods and procedures. (Author/VWL)

To make it easier for Chinese children to learn how to read, the Chinese writing system is being changed. The experimental approach of combining Chinese characters and pinyin is currently being carried out in Chinese primary schools. How this approach works in teaching children to read is described. (RM)

Provides a description of a new Reading-English-for-Specific-Purposes (RESP) course in the present Chinese context and an evaluation of its impact on the students' learning interests and learning strategies. (Author/VWL)

Research suggests that the current division between reading and writing instruction for Chinese English as a Second Language (ESL) students, the lack of authentic communication that typically exists in ESL contexts, and difficulties with sequencing teaching-learning activities combine to hinder the development of writing skills. The paper suggests…