Manoj - Wo de Buluoge - 我的部落格

Dear readers, During the class session on 12 April, our lecturer ( laoshi ) shared the following TEDx video by Chris Lonsdale, titled " How to learn any language in six months ". In the video, Chris clearly and concisely summarised several key pointers a prospective learner should know when learning a new language. The pointers include the following ; 1 - Focus on language content that is relevant to you. 2 - Use the language from day one. 3 - When you first understand the message, you will subconsciously acquire the language. 4 - Physiological training helps (i.e. using gestures, acting things out). 5 - Learn to listen to a lot. 6 - Focus on getting the meaning first (before the words). 7 - Use body language. 8 - Mixing languages (i.e. bahasa rojak) is okay. 9 - Focus on the core (key phrases, sentences) 10 - Get a language parent or friend (as a mentor). 11 - Copy the facial expressions (i.e. mouth movements when spea

Qin ai de (My dear one), I begin this letter with a famous proverb from Lao Tzu ; " The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. " I believe this proverb is very relevant to my current situation; as on the 12th of April, 2018, I challenged ( tiaozhan ) myself to learn Mandarin over the course of six weeks. I have no formal education in Mandarin, whether it be listening, speaking, or writing. The common understanding is that it would take around 6 months to learn an additional language. Thus, to accomplish a 6 month undertaking within 6 weeks will prove tough and daunting. Therefore, I will need to constantly push myself if I wish to become fluent in basic Mandarin speaking and writing. During class, our lecturer ( laoshi ) and fellow classmates discussed the many ways to start learning Mandarin. They include watching online video tutorials (such as Yoyo Chinese and eChinese Learning on YouTube), using phone apps, watching TV shows (authentic format fr