How to learn Chinese language

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-09-23 10:47

Q: How did you start learning Chinese?

I began to study with many other students in Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) in Wudaokou.

At a university you can get a great education, but it also depends on the teacher and the way she or he teaches.

My teacher Miss Zheng was tough and for that I am thankful. I learned a lot.

But the biggest reason why I think it's best to start studying at university is to make friends and get a social life in Beijing. There are so many influences from all around the world and I also built great future contacts.

The first semester at BLCU was one of the best times of my life. However the second semester became a waste of time because the teaching system becomes very rigid. It's straight from the textbook and does not leave any room for creativity.

Q: What about language partners?

A language partner is a great way to guide you into the Chinese culture, especially in the beginning. It is very difficult as a beginner to start making sentences in Chinese when you don't even know how to use the bus. A language partner helps solve questions that affect your daily life. Where do I buy a bus card? How much should I pay for a bike and so on. Today my language partner and I have become very good friends. She is my rock. You can find language partners anywhere, but mainly at different schools and universities on noticeboards. Also try the Internet.

Q: How much should I pay?

The price is very diverse. I have friends who have tutors for 120 yuan an hour while I pay my tutor 60 yuan. I also know that you can find cheaper tutoring than that (as low as 35 yuan) but then they are not pre-trained and are still at university. I had a private tutor my second semester in BLCU, he was still studying and it eventually became very difficult to meet, especially towards the end. He had a lot to do and during his final exams I saw him less and less. So there was never any real structure to our lessons.

Today I have my private tutor Cherry who a friend of mine recommended. She is very talented and professional.

Cherry knows my Chinese level and has drawn up a plan on what we should achieve before the "end of the semester". In my case before I do my HSK test, she comes with many suggestions such as movies, books etc. I have finally found something that suits me and fits my time. Twice a week, two hours each time I try to learn Chinese. And she's not just my private tutor, but is also becoming a very good friend.