Mandarin has earned a reputation for being one of the most difficult languages to learn. Because of this, most Westerners are reluctant to take Chinese classes in Singapore. However, not all misconceptions about learning Mandarin are true. In fact, there are a lot of factors that make it easier to learn than English. Here are some simple methods on how to make it easier to master the Mandarin language:
1. Listen and Be Familiar with the Sounds
You need to get the feel of the language first before learning it on a formal, classroom setting. A new language is just some noise in the ears so better listen to Mandarin dialogues often before signing up to a Mandarin class in Singapore.
2. Learn the Four Basic Tones
Standard Mandarin has four basic tones. Learning these first through hanyu pinyin can make it easier to construct sentences. It would be better to sign up in a Chinese class to master the right tones and pronunciation.
3. Consider Private Lessons
Although group classes can be fun and engaging, nothing beats the traditional 1-to-1 private lessons. This makes it easier for the instructor or teacher to find out the weaknesses of his student and create tailor-made lessons that would help improve it.
4. Study the Patterns
Instead of focusing on the rules of constructing a Mandarin sentence, observe and look for patterns instead. This method works because Mandarin, Chinese does not have complicated grammar rules, unlike English.
5. Join Classes with Conversational Exercises
Learning how to speak Mandarin first makes it easier to write meaningful sentences later on. So, it’s best to find a Chinese class that lets students practise their conversational skills.
6. Label Your Home or Workplace
Aside from being active in Chinese conversation clubs or formal Mandarin classes, make sure to start labelling some of the things at home and at the office. Doing this can make it less difficult to use the language for your everyday life.
Mandarin is not that hard to learn. With constant practise and the right guidance from an experienced teacher from a Chinese class in Singapore, it is possible to master the language in no time!
Looking for Mandarin courses? Check out Stanford Language Centre in Singapore! Aside from Mandarin, learn other languages like Thai! So, try their Thai classes now in Singapore!
