Blog Roundup - November 29, 2009

• Ben Ross' Blog - Ben talks about the benefits of learning Chinese from TV shows.
• Bruce Humes - Bruce lists some of the best-selling books in China in October 2009.
  
• Kyoto Foodie - The Foodie samples some delicious imo mochi (芋餅), a traditional Japanese candy made from sweet potatoes and pounded sticky rice.
  
• On the Fringe - Globalgal talks about her recent visit to Kashgar (喀什) in China's Xinjiang Province (新疆).
• Send Me to Korea - Hyunwoo shares a recipe for bibim mandu (비빔만두).
• Shizuoka Gourmet -Dragonlife shares a recipe for vegan agedashi tofu (揚げ出し豆腐).
  
• Speaking of China - Jocelyn shares some tips for ideal gifts for Chinese relatives or friends.
• Wandering Taiwan - Micki and Kristen explore the magical world of Taiwanese hand puppetry (布袋戲).

That's all for this week. The next blog roundup will be on December 6, 2009.

Blog Roundup - November 29, 2009

Archaic Chinese Nouns & Terms

If you're attempting to learn Classical Chinese, are struggling with a historical novel or are simply interested in learning some archaic Chinese terms, you might want to take a look at the Archaic Chinese section over at Wiktionary.

It is by no means complete but it's a good place to start if you're wondering what a 丞相 is or what you should do with a 兜鍪. **


** In case you are wondering, a 丞相 (chéngxiàng) is an old term for a chancellor or prime minister while a 兜鍪 (dōumóu) is a type of helmet used in ancient times.

Archaic Chinese Nouns & Terms

Free Chinese Languages for Liberian Citizens

It's common knowledge that China has been stepping up its efforts to improve trade links and diplomatic ties with various African states in recent years. I stumbled upon an interesting news article on the BBC News website today which looks at the increasing demand for Chinese language classes in Liberia.

China is often criticised for taking from Africa but giving little back. Not so in Liberia, where Chinese officials are moving into quite new territory - language lessons.

At the front of a makeshift classroom in Monrovia's main sports stadium, Chinese teacher Li Peng runs through the pleasantries all language students are compelled to master.

Good morning, good evening, please, thank you.

Seated on plastic chairs in front of him are about a dozen Liberians - most of them young and keen to visit China, perhaps even study there.

At first the students are hesitant and even a little embarrassed.

Forming the sounds of a new language is never easy. But the teachers are determined.

You can continue reading the rest of the article here.

Free Chinese Languages for Liberian Citizens