This flexible set of materials can be combined in different ways to meet the needs and preferences of different learning styles and language programs. These are the Chinese Odyssey components: Multimedia CD-ROM Set. This thoughtfully designed learning environment of images, video, audio, text, and exercises enables students to practice language skills in a dynamic way. The CD-ROMs contain all the grammar, vocabulary, lessons, and exercises in the program; they can be used as a stand-alone course or in conjunction with the textbook and workbook. Textbook. Contains dialogs and texts, clear and detailed explanations of grammar rules and language usage, coordinated grammar and communication exercises, and cultural material-such as common idioms and slang-to enhance students' practical knowledge of Chinese culture. Workbook. Allows learners to complete listening, reading, writing, and some speaking exercises without using a computer. It includes all the workbook exercises from the CD-ROMs, with the exception of some speaking exercises that require voice recording and playback. Audio CDs. Contain audio content for all lessons, plus listening exercises and some speaking exercises from the CD-ROMs. Perfect for students who own the CD-ROMs and want extra listening practice, the audio CDs can also be used with the textbook and workbook by those who don't have access to a computer. CD-ROM Min. req.: Windows(r) 2000 or higher Pentium(r) III 500 MHz, 128 MB RAM, 8x CD-ROM drive, 500 MB free hard drive space (1.5 GB recommended), a soundcard with speakers or headphones, and a microphone for recording. DirectX(r) 8.0 or higher, Windows Media(r) Player 9 or higher, Macromedia(r) FlashTM Player, East Asian Language Support For Windows(r) (available as free downloads). We recommend that all WindowQs(r) patches be up-to-date on your system (www.windowsupdate.com).