Extensive reading at a high comprehension level is crucial for fluid reading, recognition of characters, and automatic processing in Chinese.
Immersion in a Chinese environment and engaging with locals can provide motivation and transformative language learning experiences.
Creating videos in Chinese and engaging with viewers on social media can improve language skills and foster cultural exchange.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Reading in Chinese
Reading in Chinese presents unique difficulties due to the language's logographic nature and the absence of spaces between words. Skimming and scanning are slower and more challenging in Chinese due to the density of characters and the need for contextual understanding. Active reading, where one engages deeply with the text, is effective for learning, but can be time-consuming. Extensive reading, achieved at a 98% comprehension level, allows for fluid reading, recognition of characters and words in various contexts, and the development of automatic processing. Overcoming the challenges of reading in Chinese requires persistent practice and immersion.
The Journey of Learning Chinese
A German individual shares their experience learning Chinese and the initial excitement they felt upon realizing their ability to communicate with locals. They attribute their progress to living in a Chinese environment, engaging with Chinese people, and embracing the process of language learning. The learner faced moments of self-doubt but found motivation in the enjoyment of experiencing Chinese culture and conversing with older and younger Chinese individuals. Receiving acceptance from locals and being treated as one of them without constant mention of their foreign status was a gratifying and transformative experience.
Creating Videos in Chinese
The learner started making videos on a Chinese social media platform to share their unique perspective and experiences in China. By producing short videos in Chinese and engaging with viewers, they have been able to improve their language skills and connect with a growing audience. The process of script preparation, recording, editing, and interacting with viewers has provided an additional opportunity for language practice and cultural exchange. The positive response and engagement from viewers have motivated the learner to continue creating content in Chinese.
Importance of Extensive Reading for Language Learning
Extensive reading, a process in which learners focus on reading large quantities of text at a fast pace, is a crucial technique for language acquisition. The more learners engage in extensive reading, the more they transition from word-by-word reading to reading chunks of language and eventually comprehending ideas. This automatic processing not only enhances reading skills but also improves listening, speaking, and writing proficiency. By building a solid foundation of reading speed and comprehension, learners can develop an automatic understanding of the language, resulting in enhanced fluency.
The Benefits of Learning Chinese Characters
Learning Chinese characters is advantageous for language learners. Characters serve as a valuable tool to improve speaking skills by aiding memory and deepening understanding. They enable learners to think in characters, helping with word recall during conversations. Moreover, the ability to read characters brings the language to life, allowing learners to decipher signs and texts in real-world environments. The process of acquiring characters feels like a rewarding game, offering a sense of accomplishment with each new character learned. Overall, embracing characters alongside speaking and reading practice contributes to a well-rounded and successful language learning journey.
In this episode, John and Jared talk about something close to their hearts: reading in Chinese. They discuss the different types of reading, different techniques for advanced learners, and specifically how you can harness the power of extensive reading to accelerate your Chinese.
Guest interview is with Sebastian Mueller from Germany, who moved to China and, in addition to his day job, is a growing personality on Chinese social media.
Links from the episode:Science of Reading: Simple View (Wikipedia)Winter Cheer Chinese Courses (AllSet Learning)Andrew Methven’s Slow Chinese 每周漫闻Radio.Garden - live radio stations worldwideSebastian Mueller on 小红书Sebastian Mueller on LinkedIn
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