#61 National Chinese Language Conference 2021 Report: Hope for all Chinese learners
May 3, 2021
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Guest Jonathan Becker achieved intermediate Chinese level in just 4 months through extensive reading. The conference highlighted the importance of practical materials and 'can do' goals in language learning. Optimism and celebrating learner success were emphasized. Valuable resources for Chinese learners were discussed, including the Chinese Grammar Wiki and CC C-Dict. The challenges of learning Chinese, such as unfamiliar words and tones, were addressed. Effective teaching methods and advice for learners were also discussed.
Setting specific goals and focusing on reading materials of interest can boost motivation and progress in Chinese language learning.
Having a language partner or tutor can facilitate the learning process and make it more enjoyable.
Persistence, consistency, and realistic expectations are crucial for making progress in learning Chinese.
Deep dives
Jonathan's Journey to Learning Chinese
Jonathan, a college freshman, shares his story of learning Chinese in just four months and making rapid progress through extensive reading.
The Power of Tangible Goals
Setting specific and practical goals in Chinese language learning can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment. Jonathan's focus on reading materials that interested him helped him stay motivated and make consistent progress.
The Importance of Comprehensible Input
Jonathan's experience with reading graded readers and having a Mandarin-speaking girlfriend who provided guided reading helped him improve his reading speed and comprehension.
Brute Force Versus Guided Reading
While brute force learning can be challenging, having a language partner or tutor to provide guidance and answer questions can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Jonathan emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations and not getting discouraged by the seemingly difficult aspects of learning Chinese, such as tones. Persistence and consistency are key to making progress.
Recently, Mandarin Companion participated in the 2021 National Chinese Language Conference (NCLC), and the topics discussed provided quite a bit of insight into what is in store for the future of Chinese learning, since methods applied in schools trickles down to affect all learners. Spoiler alert: the future is bright!
Guest interview with Jonathan Becker, a college student who was placed into his Universities intermediate Chinese level after just 4 months of learning all due to, yep, you guessed it, extensive reading.
Links from the episode:NCLC: Breakout SessionsNCSSFL-ACTFL Can-Do StatementsCC-CEDict (free Chinese dictionary) on MDBG.netAllSet Learning Chinese Grammar Wiki
Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram.
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