What is this subject about? 

The study is based on the themes prescribed and a wide range of text types is included. Students are expected to produce different styles of writing.

  • Three prescribed themes: Self and others; Tradition and change in Chinese-speaking communities; and The world around us. See the table below. 

Prescribed themes and topics, and suggested subtopics

Self and others

Tradition and change in Chinese-speaking communities

The world around us

Personal world
For example, personal values and beliefs, self-identity, views of an ideal world, family life.

Literature and the Arts
For example, classic and contemporary literature, film, dance, art, music, entertainment.

Lifestyles
For example, customs and traditions, impact of technology, urbanisation, food in China, cultural diversity, travel, leisure.

Contributing to the community
For example, voluntary work, caring for the aged, youth well-being, contributing to community services.

Stories from the past
For example, ancient philosophers, legends and myths, a significant historical period, festivals.

Current issues
For example, the environment and sustainability, the role of the media, globalisation, China and the world.

Education and aspirations
For example, future of work and careers, lifelong learning, education systems, overseas study.

Youth issues
For example, global citizenship, relationships with family and friends, social media, youth in China.

Studies of Australia
For example, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, sports culture, Chinese migration.

  • Examples of text-types: newspaper articles, diary entries, personal letters, formal letters, speeches. 
  • Writing styles: personal, imaginative, informative, persuasive and evaluative. 

  1. China 1

  2. China 2


How will I demonstrate my learning?

Each unit deals with specific content contained in areas of study and is designed to enable students to achieve a set of outcomes for that unit. Each outcome is described in terms of key knowledge and key skills.

Unit 1 suitable outcomes Unit 2 suitable outcomes 
Outcome 1: 
a discussion between the teacher and each student or a personal letter or email. 
Outcome 1:
a formal letter or email or a role-play
Outcome 2: 
Responses to a spoken (or a written text) and a viewed text, extracting and using information and ideas to produce a response in a different text type		Outcome 2:
Responses to a spoken text (or a written text) and a viewed text and comparison of information and ideas obtained
Outcome 3:

a journal entry or a spoken personal account or a short story
Outcome 3:

an oral presentation or a personal blog or an article or a  personal email


Why might I be interested in this subject?

I might be interested in the study because I would like to

• maintain and extend my skills in Chinese for personal growth and career opportunities

• explore further the Chinese culture and carry on my cultural heritage

• improve my understanding of the cultures of communities that use Chinese and different attitudes and values within the wider Australian community and beyond

What are some future study and career pathways this subject may lead to?

Examples of future study and career pathways:

  • Linguistics
  • International relations
  • Diplomacy
  • International business
  • Economics
  • Cultural exchange and Arts
  • Journalism
  • Media study
  • Tourism
  • Hospitality
  • Education