Speaking Chinese may be one thing, but learning to write Chinese is a totally different challenge. And while most TV channels in China are filled with reality singing competitions this summer, CCTV’s Science and Education channel has chosen a different path. It too has launched a program that focuses on students’ mastery of the Chinese language, and it’s causing quite a buzz among viewers.
Are you really sure how your language is written? Don’t rush to answer. Many talented people taking part in this "Chinese Characters Writing Competition" have failed in writing the simplest words that they frequently say in daily life.
"Most of the characters are frequently used in daily life. So you’d think you wouldn’t have any problem writing them. But when they pick up the pen they find they can’t do it," audience member Zeng Fengxuan said.
The prevalent use of electronic devices enables us to finish written work without touching a pen. This means that more and more people are losing the ability to write Chinese characters by hand, especially when the written forms are embedded with Chinese culture.
Many believe that the TV show can help us seek the characters we lost behind the keyboard.
"When we use keyboards and touch screens, we lose intimacy with the characters. This show can help us find that intimacy. And by seeking that intimacy, we can enhance our understanding of our culture and history as well," researcher Liu Danqing said.
Since it was first broadcast last Friday, the "Chinese Characters Writing Competition" has become very popular among audiences and on the Internet, even taking Sina Weibo by storm. Hopefully, the show will return people’s attention back to the Chinese language.