New Basic Korean

Author: Li Hongmei Yu Chengyun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-11-01
Features: The language level of this textbook is equivalent to the beginner level of the Korean Language Proficiency Test (KLPT). It can be used by first-year students of Korean language majors in universities, as a Korean language training textbook for adults, or as a reference for self-learners. The book is divided into three units. Unit 1 includes an introduction, phonetics, and numerals. Units 2 and 3 each contain 5 lessons. After the lesson sections, there is a comprehensive exercise for the book and appendices. Its specific features are as follows:
The common feature of other textbooks both domestically and internationally is that they begin with phonetics. However, this textbook arranges Unit 1 with an introduction to Korean to consider professionalism and students' systematic understanding of the Korean language. The introduction section includes the creation and principles of Hunminjeongeum, the characteristics of Korean, the historical periods of Korean, standard language and dialects, etc. The phonetics section of Unit 1 provides a systematic and detailed introduction to the phonetic rules of Korean, while also analyzing phonetic changes in Korean pronunciation. This allows students to gain both synchronic and diachronic understanding of Korean phonetics.
Second, the explanation and arrangement of vocabulary. The vocabulary selected in this textbook has been carefully considered from multiple perspectives, including practicality, timeliness, and frequency. Efforts have been made to select high-frequency, timely, and realistic vocabulary, while also adding a vocabulary section to introduce new words and slang. To facilitate students' mastery and memorization of vocabulary, the vocabulary list is categorized based on 'nominals' and 'verbs', semantic fields, etc. Moreover, it breaks away from the explanation methods used in many other textbooks.
Third, the selection, arrangement, and explanation of grammatical points. The grammar selected in this textbook has been carefully analyzed by the author based on the grammar statistics of the National Institute of the Korean Language and the actual learning situation of Chinese students. After considering factors such as usage frequency, difficulty, and universality, the order of the grammar has been arranged. To improve and master students' grammatical application skills, this textbook considers the connections between different grammatical points from multiple angles, grouping grammar that is closely related to sentence patterns and specific contexts together. The purpose is to make it easier for students to use and master the grammar, ultimately achieving the goal of truly improving language skills. To help students use grammar correctly, comparisons are provided for easily confused grammatical points. Additionally, the explanations of grammatical points combine textual descriptions with specific contexts, using supplementary visual materials to enhance understanding and application.
Fourth, exercises. The exercises are designed to balance the improvement of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and translation skills while also considering the question types of the Korean Language Proficiency Test. Various exercises with diverse formats that enhance cognitive abilities have been carefully designed. To improve students' cognitive abilities, this textbook extensively uses vivid images, comics, advertisements, and newspaper materials in the exercises. The textbook also includes comprehensive exercises to reinforce learning content.
Teaching Objectives: Through systematic learning, this textbook aims to lay a solid foundation for students in the beginner stage of learning Korean, enabling them to proceed to more advanced studies.