A Thematic Approach to Teaching Chinese Adjectives to Primary School Learners: A Case Study in Thailand 

Chen Xikun

Xi’an Shiyou University, Huyi District, Xi'an, Shaanxi China, 710300；

Abstract：This study explores the application and effectiveness of a thematic teaching approach in teaching Chinese adjectives to beginner-level learners. Grounded in the principles of theme-based instruction, the study emphasizes meaningful language use through authentic contexts and learner experiences. The research was conducted among primary school students in Thailand, focusing on three thematic units: personal emotions, living environments, and Chinese-Thai festivals. High-frequency adjectives were systematically organized within semantic networks, and classroom activities integrating situational presentation, interactive tasks, and cultural experiences were designed accordingly.

Data were collected through classroom observations, student assignments, oral performance records, and questionnaires, and were analyzed comprehensively. The findings indicate that the thematic teaching approach significantly enhances learners’ understanding of adjective meanings and their ability to use adjectives appropriately in real-life contexts. Students demonstrated more natural language production and improved accuracy and diversity in adjective usage when describing emotions, environments, and cultural topics. In addition, increased classroom engagement, learning motivation, and cultural awareness were observed.

However, certain limitations were identified, including constraints in thematic scope, limited instructional time, and individual learner differences, which may affect the overall effectiveness. The study suggests that thematic design should balance linguistic objectives with learners’ actual needs.

Overall, the thematic approach proves to be both feasible and effective in teaching Chinese adjectives at the beginner level. The instructional design and findings of this study provide practical insights for vocabulary teaching in international Chinese education and offer directions for future classroom improvement and research.

Keywords: Thematic teaching; Chinese adjectives; primary school learners; vocabulary instruction

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