Hey C-Drama fans! Did you know that watching Chinese dramas can be super helpful to learn Chinese?
It helps giving a goal to learn Chinese and don’t be shy! I do it too!
You have no idea how many people tell me you can’t learn a language by watching TV. Which is true in some sense.
However, I’d like to advocate that if you make learning fun, it becomes less of a chore and you absorb it better.
There is no right and wrong answer as this post is primarily geared to lay out what resources you have at your disposal to learn Chinese.
Everyone learns differently.
Some may say that Chinese is one of the hardest languages to learn and even difficult to master.
But is it truly that difficult? Well, if you came across this post, read first before you decide!
Here are some of the best ways to learn Chinese!
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So I’ve been looking around for awhile and seeing what are some of the best resources out there.
And for your convenience, I’ve broken down some of the resources based on what’s available on the internet.
Let’s break them down one by one. Interested?
Read along to find out!
1. Pay-to-learn Programs
Chinese Language Immersion Program
One of the quickest ways to learn Chinese is to immerse yourself in it. Because if you use it more, the faster you learn.
Which is the concept that applies to almost everything.
Learning languages is no exception.
There are a variety of language immersion programs but if you’re thinking of enrolling in these programs, focus on ones that are based in China.
Where you will be using the language you are learning.
Yes, there are options to be immersed while you are in your home country but you will be tempted to use your native language. Instead of using the one you are learning.
So please, if you decide to take this route. Focus on programs that are based in China.
And if you need another reason, think of the cost you will be paying. It’s NOT cheap.
On average, you might be spending at least $100/week in a language immersion program, so you might as well make the most out of it.
Usually the program offers a structured course structure in addition to having fun trips so you can be exposed to the language.
Or better yet, opportunities to use the language while you are over there exploring and having fun. Check out GoAbroad if you want to do a little more research on these programs.
Language Courses
Yoyo Chinese
But what if you don’t have that much money to spare for immersion courses?
Don’t worry! You can still learn by taking language courses.
There’s a TON of resources on the internet and a very popular course has popped up recently called Yoyo Chinese.
The number of fans and subscribers attest to their coursework that actually work is 110,000 people!
That’s a lot of people vouching for this.
On a closer look, they offer quizzes, flashcards, and videos.
Plus a very structured format to take your learning step by step. From beginner to intermediate and advanced.
And everything is online! So no more installing language software on your computers to learn a language.
iTalki Language Programs
The programs from iTalki present a unique way of learning Chinese.
Because the lessons are tailored to each student that enrolls. Plus, the lessons are one-on-one and can be completed anytime, anywhere as long as you have a device to connect online.
I think that’s pretty neat. And for those of you worrying about the cost, it’s based on lesson by lesson.
As for the structure of the program, it’s a mix of conversational, vocabulary and grammar.
Each teacher is different and is eager to tailor the learning needs of their students.
2. Free Programs
Chinese Meetup Groups
Okay, so what about some FREE resources? Not everyone has a budget to spare.
Check out your local meetup groups that are focused on learning Chinese in a casual setting.
You’d be surprised how many people in your area want to learn Chinese. It’s easy to sign up for the Meetup group app and make an account.
Look for groups that have a lot of members and are pretty active when scheduling events throughout the month to meet up.
You wouldn’t want to join a group that’s barely active.
Some groups encourage speaking Chinese during the event and it’s a great way to practice your skills with others.
Or get tips from those who are just getting started.
Other Free Resources
Thanks to the internet, you have a TON of free information at your fingertips.
You have youtube for free videos and a variety of websites that offer free Chinese lessons. Duolingo is one of them.
So if you want to get started but don’t have any money to spare, you can check out the free lessons first.
3. More Variety is Key
Who said you had to stick to just ONE way of learning a language? Everyone’s learning style is different so experiment and see what works for you!
Watching Chinese Dramas is just the icing on the cake and a nice excuse to practice your progress.
If you’re more of a visual learner, try watching some videos and supplement it with textbooks and worksheets for the characters.
Or if you prefer, you can start with listening and speaking first then learning writing and reading next.
Because with this method, you can converse with the locals if you get a chance to take a trip to China!
Just know that it will take time to learn this language and if you get frustrated, take a break.
But don’t give up!
What did you use to help you learn Chinese? Was it flashcards, workbooks, quizzes?
Or did you use something else? Leave a comment below!
