I get asked all the time by prospective students, new students, or even seasoned students--"How do I improve my spoken Chinese?" And not only do they want to know the answer to that question, they also want to know: "How can I do it fast?" Often if you are a Westerner learning Chinese, you are not able to be around Mandarin 24/7. You are not hearing it in the streets everyday, or at home. You are mostly surrounded by your native language, whether that be English, French, Spanish, etc. So how do you improve your Chinese tones, your natural Chinese speech when you are isolated in a non-Chinese environment? Here are four tips I give and which are guaranteed to work, as long as you use them consistently over a period of six months:
1. Create a Mandarin-Immersed Environment
You can start by creating your own sense of immersion in your daily life. This can be done by watching Chinese-language dramas and movies, listening to music or podcasts.
You can do this by finding some Chinese DVDs or watch Chinese films online. This is an easy, entertaining way to get a feel for the sound and structure of the Mandarin Chinese. Repeat what a TV says, or a recording, read a book out loud or quietly while listening to someone read it to you on CD, talk to mirror. Or you can read Chinese words or short stories aloud to reinforce your memory. Record yourself and play it back later, and ask yourself, "How does it sound?"
2. Find a Language Partner
Make Chinese friends at school: Are there peers who speak Mandarin at your school or university? Then make them your friends! Take every opportunity to speak with Chinese people. You will know you’re doing well when you can make yourself understood by a native speaker.
Do a language exchange: Find a native speaker to help you practice your speaking. Visit some Chinese webs and forums. There are lots of ... Read More
