Mr.Ted,you need give the following documents:
1. Applicant's passport with blank pages and at least 6 months validity left before expiration.
2. A truly and completely filled application form affixed with one passport-sized photo.
3. A Visa Notification Form issued by Chinese authorized unit.
4. Working Permits, such as: Working Permit issued to foreign experts by The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, Alien Employment License of the People's Republic of China issued by Ministry of Labor and Social Security,
5. The applicant who will stay in China for more than 6 months shall provide a Physical Examination Certificate for Foreign Citizen .

yes, you can give the Visa Application Form in English. You can get Z visa in one day if you show you air ticket on the same day or next day and pay for extra money.