• Culture shapes our view of the world. Language is the most representative element in any culture. Any item of behavior, tradition or pattern can only be understood in light of its meaning to the people who practice it. A knowledge of the codes of behavior of another people is important if today’s foreign language students are to communicate successfully in the target language. 
• Without the study of culture, foreign language instruction is inaccurate and incomplete. For foreign language students, language study seems senseless if they know nothing about the people who speak it or the country in which it is spoken. Language learning should be more than the manipulation of pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary.
• In this course we will examine not only a list of facts concerning two major English-speaking countries, but also have an intimate view of Chinese culture. Therefore, this course is designed to help you: 

1. raise your awareness of culture;
2. have a rather comprehensive understanding of the British and American society and culture, the topics of which range from their geography, history, literature, food, houses, sports, holidays and festivals, arts, education, mass media, social problems, to foreign relations, etc.
3. have a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and develop your ability to promote Chinese culture world-wide.

课程成绩按百分制计。