Any people learning Chinese?

[hamihaha]

Hi, I will probably spend one year in China in January, I'd like to learn some Chinese by myself first, any tips?

[McClef]

from South Wales UK!

Learn it phonetically the "alphabet" isn't easy!

Each word has its own character.

[pipesndrumsnun]

WELCOME from Flint, Michigan!!
I don't know anything about the Chinese language, but, as a teacher, I would certainly suggest flash cards!

[12stones]

I've wanted to and know a few phrases, but I'll give you some tips for learning languages in general. I speak 4...though I'm losing 2 because I never have the opportunity to use them.

First, if you can, find a local adult education center that might offer a course or something... If that's not possible, then do yourself the favor of getting the Rosettastone course. It's expensive, but if you're serious about learning the language, this is the most proven for self-teaching. I assume you're just trying to learn to speak, because learning to read and write at this point is pretty much impossible.

Find a chinese station on the AM radio if possible and just listen to it. You don't have to understand it, but you'll pick up on intonation, rhythm, influction...and as you start to learn, you'll recognize words and how to hear and say them.

Also, use it...instead of thinking things to yourself...say them out loud in Chinese. You might feel ridiculous, but, hey, you're the one that wants to learn the language right? If you know someone who's Chinese, speak with them with what little you know. You'll find that if you're really trying and are respectful, native speakers will go out of their way to help you get their language right.

Finally, learn the rules of the language, but don't care why they are that way. Just follow them. Too many people get wrapped around the axle wondering why things are the way they are instead of just accepting that they are and moving on... The rules of languages are all ridiculous. It doesn't matter how they got that way, but they did. Follow them.

One last thing...when you get there, immersion is key. Speak it as often as possible, listen to it as much as possible, and have a decent english translation dictionary with you. Learning a language as difficult as Chinese will take serious dedication. Good luck.

[McFarkus]

from Chicago. I'm not, but two of my nephews are studying it in school.

[Pleater]

I didn't know there was a language called Chinese - there is Mandarin, and ...... the other one.

Sheeessh Isn't it great when your brain cells decide to go on holiday without you. NOT.

[James MacMillan]

While it is entirely possible to learn Chinese from a self study book. The best way is through a structured course!

Check your local community colleges for a course.

Yes, you could buy a book and learn it on your own, but in the beginning, you need the pressure of homework and memorization tests.

Don't believe any of the adds. There is no easy way to learn another tongue! It is hard work! You will need at least two years of intense study before you get good enough to hold a basic conversation with a stranger.

After the initial two years, you may be able to study on your own, but only if you are very self disciplined.

Good luck!

[demobud]

You might check your local library for access to Rosetta Stone courses. Ours has about fifteen availale languages that you can use for self study. (and it's cheaper that buying those courses)

[cacunn]

Hamihaha your login doesn't say where you are located but check with your local library. The libraries in Maryland have access to Rosettastone on line through the library. I've looked at it but have not tried it.

The only introduction to Chinese I've had was a roommate in college. He was learning the language and would start his homework early in the morning as the rest of us were sleeping. He was following 12stone's instructions and talking out loud. Not a nice thing to do to the other three people in the room who were trying to sleep. Because of that and other socially objectionable habits we found him other accommodations.

[12stones]

I didn't know there was a language called Chinese - there is Mandarin, and ...... the other one.

Sheeessh Isn't it great when your brain cells decide to go on holiday without you. NOT.

You must mean Cantonese...