Famous teachers suggest that to learn Chinese well, start by learning classical Chinese well

On October 16, during a recent event in Chengdu, Zhang Liang, a senior teacher from Sichuan Province and a leading figure in academic disciplines in Chengdu, shared her insights on mastering the Chinese language. Her key piece of advice? Start with classical Chinese literature.

The occasion was a book sharing event for the sixth edition of the “Dictionary of Common Characters in Classical Chinese” and the “Dictionary of Common Knowledge in Ancient Chinese Culture,” hosted by the Commercial Press.

Zhang highlighted that classical Chinese is the foundation of modern Mandarin and serves as a crucial vessel for transmitting rich traditional culture. According to her, students who excel in classical Chinese will be better equipped to understand, apply, and pass on the essence of Chinese culture. She emphasized the importance of resource tools such as the “Dictionary of Common Characters in Classical Chinese” and the “Dictionary of Common Knowledge in Ancient Chinese Culture.” These dictionaries not only help middle and high school students master classical Chinese but also empower them to take ownership of their learning and develop problem-solving skills—key competencies in today’s education landscape.

Another senior teacher, Peng Jian, reflected on his teaching experience, stating that the “Dictionary of Common Knowledge in Ancient Chinese Culture” is not only a convenient resource for students learning about ancient culture but also an essential aid for educators aiming to enhance teaching quality. He stressed that by engaging with the content within these dictionaries, students can gain deeper insights into the essence and value of ancient Chinese culture, thereby enhancing their cultural literacy and aesthetic judgement. Furthermore, this approach fosters interest and enthusiasm for ancient culture among students.

Both educators agreed that while the internet offers a wealth of resources and quick access to information, the quality of that information can be inconsistent. They cautioned that both teachers and students need to invest additional time and energy to sift through and verify useful information. Over-reliance on online resources might hinder students’ ability to think independently and solve problems, negatively affecting their capacity for self-directed learning.

The “Dictionary of Common Characters in Classical Chinese” is the first ancient Chinese dictionary compiled using modern linguistic and lexicographic theories and methods since the founding of New China. Its creation represents a milestone in the history of Chinese lexicography. Completed through a collaboration between Peking University and the Commercial Press, its development is a testament to the visionary efforts of linguists and lexicographers dedicated to preserving China’s exceptional traditional culture.

Meanwhile, the “Dictionary of Common Knowledge in Ancient Chinese Culture” is a compact resource designed for middle and high school students, educators, and enthusiasts of ancient Chinese culture. It makes effective use of comprehensive databases of classic Chinese texts, ensuring high-quality content, with entries closely aligned with traditional cultural classics found in recent educational curricula and foundational reading lists. This connection emphasizes both knowledge and cultural relevance.