China has the world's fastest growing economy and is rapidly becoming an influential player in global business and industry. Therefore high schools in various European countries are offering a multitude of Chinese language programmes. For this reason Ans van Broekhuizen-de Rooij, Fresco Sam-Sin, Inez Kretzschmar en Maghiel van Crevel have developed an extensive and contemporary teaching method for Mandarin, which tries to fulfill the growing need for knowledge of the Chinese language. This book sheds light on subjects relating to the Chinese culture, language and grammar, both the past and the present. Filled with pronunciation exercises in poetry form, cultural and historical references, stories of illustrious historical figures, and interesting facts on the evolution of Chinese characters; this book presents a wealth of information for students on Chinese civilisation and its relevance to the modern world. The teaching method consists of 10 lessons and will be combined with an online course, where students have the opportunity to listen to pronunciation exercises, audio courses and assignments.