It looks like I'm moving to Beijing Jiaotong University, and I'm seeking Chinese courses at my level. My reading level is around 三年级 (grade-3 level) and speaking level is probably less than that (maybe 二年级), enough to have conversations on unspecialized topics. Mostly I'm self-taught, but I feel I should get a proper education.
- I'm seeking in-person classes, with homework and/or exams.
I'm seeking a class at an appropriate level.
- If the notes use pinyin for anything other than new vocabulary, it's probably too easy for me.
- If the teacher speaks English, it's probably too easy.
Ideally, the material would be what is normally taught to Chinese children.
Searching the web gives lots of courses, but they're hard to judge. Most classes I find are at the absolute beginner level, optimized for passing HSK exams, or are tailored to doing business in China. They typically minimize reading and writing, and focusing on speaking and listening, to suit "Western" tastes. I'm more seeking class for people who intend to permanently live in China. I'm not sure what to look for.
Question: How can I find a suitable-level Chinese class in Beijing?
I thought about a course while I was in Australia, but the study material is artificial and boring! For example:
麦克：谢谢你来接我，最近还好吧？
李志：我很好。你坐了这么久的飞机，一定很累了吧？
I attended some classes at Nankai University when I was there; the teachers are fantastic, the material is interesting, but the level was too low (absolute beginner). I wish I could find something like that, but at a more suitable level.
I did not find this question addressed here: Resources for learning Mandarin Chinese I hope this question is of interest beyond just my personal needs, particularly since I ask about classes in Beijing.
