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Sep 29, 2011

Why You Should Learn Korean

Korean speakers are not so widespread, so why learn Korean? Consider these 3 reasons:

1. Product Understanding. Some of the equipment in the market today like mobile phones, computers, household appliances and other electronic gadgets are made in Korea. When we buy these devices, there are manuals or instructions in the package that are written only in Korean. If we are able to understand what was written in the manual, we will be able to follow instructions properly.

2. Career and Business. If you work as a professional or if you are an entrepreneur, you have the advantage if you know how to speak and read the Korean language.

For instance, nowadays, Koreans are enrolling in English classes. If you happen to be an English teacher teaching Korean students, it is easier to interact with them if you already know their language. Furthermore, if you work for a Korean company or Korean boss, knowing how to speak Korean will open up new opportunities for career advancement.As an entrepreneur, you will benefit from learning Korean if you are in business with a Korean trader or supplier. Communication lines will be clearer and your Korean counterpart will have more trust and confidence in you.

3. Traveling and Migrating. It will also be very convenient if you know how to speak Korean if you travel or migrate to the country. For example, if you want to travel and spend a vacation in Korea, you will be able to communicate with the Koreans living there because most of them hardly understand English, especially when you stray far from Seoul.

In addition, if you found a job in Korea or you met a Korean you want to marry or just decided to migrate to the country and live there. Transition will be easier since you can understand their native language. It will not be difficult for you to work or live in Korea.If you are able to speak and read the Korean language it can be a very valuable asset. Although it is different from the English language, it can be learnt gradually and progressively. Through dedication, practice and hard work, the language can be mastered. There are ways you can learn the language.

Sep 28, 2011

Brainwave Entrainment In Foreign Language Learning

Research has found that the ideal state for learning is when the brain is in a relaxed, but aware state. At this point the brainwaves run at about 8 to 12 cycles per seconds and this is called the alpha state. Alpha frequencies are found to be useful for learning purposes in many ways. Research results reveal that in a relaxed state of mind learners memorize new words more easily. When using soothing sounds with brainwave entrainment technology that stimulates alpha brain waves, learners will be more relaxed and it will help them to absorb new information more easily.In ordinary awareness everything your hear, read or learn is filtered through short term memory and analytical processes and much of it never reaches long term memory.

With brainwave entrainment you can learn and remember things with much less repetition because the brainwave entrainment induces relaxed state of awareness where learning and memory functions are greatly increased. In this brainwave state new words and phrases you hear go straight into long term memory which is where language is stored.The whole-brain language instruction, for example, enhances the learning experience with soothing music, brainwave entrainment and colors. Teachers play music while reading definitions of the new words, leaving time for listeners to draw images of the words or they use guided meditation to build a relaxed state containing memories of success before the listeners hear the definitions again. Research results have confirmed that in a relaxed state of mind you will memorize new words more easily. When using soothing sounds with brainwave entrainment technology that stimulates your alpha brain waves, you will be more relaxed and it will help you to absorb new information much easily.

As lower brainwaves increase the ability to think in a creative manner, this puts the brain into a creative mode of thinking.Researchers have found that certain music types (e.g. baroque music) ease the brainwaves into the relaxed 'alpha state' that is ideal for learning. Guiding the brain into a specific frequency is aided by computer generated rhythmic pulses of sound, also called isochronic tones, so the brain can synchronize to a desired frequency. Guiding the brain to faster or higher frequencies has been shown to stir creativity and motivation while switching to lower or deeper frequencies can induce states of relaxation and calm. The use of music in the classroom can make the entire learning process more enjoyable and can stimulate "right" brain learning.

Sep 27, 2011

Foreign Language Learning Is a Cultural Immersion

We are now living in am era of globalization, each country and culture has turn out to be connected regardless of whether it is in enterprise, education and other fields. There is a need to be knowledgeable, not in just our local tongue, but also in other languages. It has be come a necessity to be able to be a part of the community, get greater career opportunities, and therefore succeed.There are distinct approaches on how we can enhance our abilities of acquiring languages. Diverse aides like CDs, DVDs, books, dictionaries and magazines can be bought quickly in bookstores.

But professionals have agreed that the most critical approach is by submerging ourselves of the language’s culture.There are several experts who agree that the greatest way and most efficient strategy of teaching language would be what is referred to as as “language immersion.” Reading grammar and vocabulary books are indeed critical in order to enhance language understanding. But it is practice and exposure that you would uncover most useful when studying a new language. For example, if you would go abroad and live there, then it would be inevitable that you would pick up the language.

You are exposed to different aspects of culture that uses the language, like television, movies, radio, restaurants, museums, transportation and other public locations.Language immersion will maintain learning language balanced. Language is something reflected by the people’s culture, therefore, to comprehend the language it would be finest to comprehend the ideas and concepts behind it by immersing in the culture. Aside from that, it keeps learning interactive and enjoyable. You do not have to pour over boring texts for hours and still unable to retain anything.Language immersion does not mean you would have to Spain to learn Spanish and go to France and fluently speak French. There are distinct approaches to immerse ourselves in other cultures with out spending too a lot on the airfare.

* You could begin by renting foreign films and listening to various radio programmes making use of the language of your interest. For example, if you want to understand how to speak Spanish, then telenovelas would be a wonderful way to get acquainted with the language. Telenovelas play a significant role in Latin America’s pop culture. There are teachers who would testify that students would get involved in the dramas that they do not even realize that they are slowly enhancing their Spanish abilities.

* Foreign films are also excellent avenues for language immersion. They are fascinating, simple to access and of course in the language that you would like to learn.

* If you are not a big fan of foreign dramas and films, then you could definitely understand a lot from foreign sports. You could find out from the announcers and fans, just like in drama, you get involved with the sports that you keep track of it and gradually understanding what those announcers are in fact reporting.

* Radio has played a major role in language acquisition. There are on-line radios from diverse parts of the globe which you can listen to. You may well locate it tough in the beginning but later on, you will begin to identify more and more words and ultimately learn the language.

* Eating in foreign restaurants would also permit you to get acquainted to foreign dishes and how they were pronounced. Some restaurants would even consist of foreign performances whilst dining.Studying different languages could be accomplished in ways that you do not have to spend too a lot or leave the country.

 But if you feel that travelling will increase your expertise and education, then go ahead. There are many options that you could choose from, make positive that you will be picking out the most practical.

Sep 26, 2011

Analyze English inside UK For language learning

This really is gonna inevitably cause you to rapidly educate yourself on the words or at least , enhance what you already know just . You can find various on-line supplementary substance to help you as you finish the British scientific studies throughout Great britain . You will find not only syntax physical exercises and also idioms which have been popular inside the English words .Idioms such as ?I?m consequently starving I can consume a horse?
 along with ?It?s raining kittens and cats and dogs? will be just a few brand new idioms one can learn inside your English classes . Besides idioms, you will also be exposed to many new lessons throughout Language . For instance , your alphabet, animal names , learning game titles , beautifully constructed wording , tune lyrics as well as amounts . Towards the end of your British course , you may be supposed to discover ways to talk within simple content which have been grammatically proper and also flawlessly obvious .You are furthermore destined to be likely to understand how to go through road directions , publications , publications , papers and recognize broadcast tv that happen to be just about all verbal inside Uk words .
For this reason , advisable may be to never expose yourself to your own personal ancient language at this point over time . Experts recommend which you observe simply English-speaking exhibits , go through simply British newspapers as well as mags along with meet with people who are fluent . estudiar ingles en el extranjeroThis is why final decision which is to analyze English in UK is a great idea mainly because it goes from your ancient surroundings as well as sets anyone in a position exactly where rapid understanding is necessary . Not only will you always be immersed in a very country as their native language is British , additionally , you will be exposed to a wonderful culture which includes helped designed the around the globe . For this reason , numerous individuals who’re in the UK to master English do start off creating your own blog relating their encounters you could access on the web .

Sep 25, 2011

Learn Chinese Calligraphy

Of the four major disciplines of Chinese literati, calligraphy is regarded as the most elite and sophisticated of the skills; others being musical instruments, painting and board games. Chinese calligraphy is popular across the globe because of the beauty which is reflected from its precisely crafted pattern of characters. Although many calligraphers in China have devoted their entire lives for the love of calligraphy but the names of few pioneers still top the list and even today, the techniques and unique styles of ancient calligraphy invented by them are practiced religiously.
Ouyang Xun, Yan Zhengqing and Wang Xizhi were the three calligraphers who reached the realms of calligraphy; and are still highly respected for the contribution they made towards the furtherance of this art.How much time it takes to learn Chinese Calligraphy?The answer to first question is that in order to learn Chinese calligraphy, having a good know how of Chinese language is not necessary however, the knowledge of Chinese culture is a requisite. This is because calligraphy is a substantial part of Chinese culture and if some one wants to acquire this outstanding skill of penmanship, he must possess plenty noesis about how calligraphy originated and how it evolved in each period of Chinese dynasty.The answer to second question lies in the fact that calligraphy or the art of penmanship like any other form of art, cannot be learned overnight.
Before actually starting how to design characters on the paper, one must thoroughly memorize the styles, methods and tools used; which is quite time consuming. This does not mean that you will be spending decades in building the foundation of calligraphy; if you consistently give a few hours to learning the basics, after three to four weeks time, you will be all geared up to actually start discovering the miracles of your handwriting. Websites based on the theme of learning calligraphy online can also help greatly in saving energy and time.The secret of becoming an expert calligraphist is directly linked to practice. Yes, practice is what results in extraordinary pieces of calligraphy. And don’t forget to add the topping of patience and desire, without which your success pie of calligraphy would be imperfect. The more effort and time you invest in getting the hang of calligraphy, the more proficient you will become in creating masterworks; and once calligraphy starts running in your blood, you can do marvels.

Sep 23, 2011

Language Learning For Better Career

However, it is important not to become discouraged. Expect the ups and downs to come as you learn your new language. This is only normal. And when you finally do conquer the obstacles and can speak clearly in a second language, all that frustration will turn into excitement. So stick with it. Don't give up. Below are some pointers that will help you stay focused and encouraged as you move towards fluency in your new tongue.
• Set realistic expectations - Don't expect to learn everything you need to be fluent your first day. You will learn your second language like you did your first - over time and with consistent effort. Expect to make mistakes along the way. This is only natural. Ads by Google
• Take it slow and in managable portions. Your brain operates just like a computer. It loads new information and dumps old information to make room for the new. Like a computer, your brain can only hold so much data before it starts to slow down and experience problems.
• Vocabulary is key. Don't get me wrong, learning to structure your sentences is very important, and you will eventually get there. But vocabulary words are the building blocks of your new language. So that's where you'll want to start. If you don't have the option of living in a foreign country to learn your new language (which makes things much easier), write your vocabulary words down on 3x5 flash cards. As best you can during your workday, test yourself during breaks. Even if you already know some of your words, continue to test yourself again and again right along with the new ones. The best way to learn something new like this is to repeat it again and again. That way, you'll never lose it.
Learning a foreign language isn't just about mindless drills and taking written tests. You'll know you're fluent when you can interact with other people in the new language. You want to be able to communicate and be understood by natives. That's your goal. Not only that, but you you also need to be able to convey your thoughts and understand the thoughts of other people in your target tongue.
Keep these tips (and others from our site) in mind as you learn your new language. Pretty soon you'll be thinking and even dreaming in it. When you do, you'll open doors to a much more rewarding career and life as you gain insight and understanding of a culture other than your own.
  
 

Sep 22, 2011

Why Do People Fail To Learn Lnguage

I am a firm proponent of intensive language courses to give people a strong start in their language learning, but I have often seen expatriates arrive in a country after their intensive course and drop language study on the grounds that they are now surrounded by the language on a daily basis at work, and so further study is unnecessary. In most cases, this is the end of any real progress towards fluency.People fail to learn the language because they are surrounded by local staff who want to improve their English by using it as much as possible. This is fine, if you are practicing their language in other contexts, but you still want to be able to talk to the rest of your staff who don't speak English or you will find that the English speakers act as gate-keepers and filter the information you receive.

 Therefore you need to make sure that you are studying and practicing regularly so that you continue to make progress. Arranging a language tutor 2-3 times per week is the best way to do this as you are accountable, and unlikely to put it off just because you are tired or busy. It is also a good way to cultivate relationships outside the office.Since most large cities also have an English-speaking community you can probably meet your social needs without ever learning the local language unless you make an effort to do so, and reach out and make friends in the local community.

This can be easier in some cultures than in others, but it is your responsibility to make sure that language is not the main barrier to such relationships, and the best way to do this is to continue with some regular formal language study, or another planned activity that takes you out of the expatriate community.I recommend that expatriates find a language tutor and continue to meet with them two or three times a week for several months even though they may feel too busy to do so.

 Even people who are naturally gifted at languages will benefit from this, and the rest of us really need it if we are not to be content with just getting by in the local language. Although you will often find senior staff who speak English it is quite embarrassing after several months, or years, to have to have a translator with you at all times, and if you are mixing with government officials you don't want to speak like a pre-schooler.Not only does learning the language give you insight into the culture and enrich your life, but it also gives you a much greater understanding of other people's lives and values.

Sep 21, 2011

5 Tips to Start Learning a Foreign Language

1. BE REALIST YET OPTIMISTIC - Anyone can learn a foreign language, but not everyone learns as quickly as the next. Set goals for yourself, and evaluate how you learn best so that you can have a realistic plan of attack to start learning your language of interest.

2. KEEP IT SIMPLE - Just like a child learning English for the first time you don't start by learning how to say complicated medical terms. Get a good dictionary that has explanations for common words and their idiomatic uses. There are several great reference dictionaries out there. I recommend Harper Collins Dictionaries or Larousse.

There is a great book that approaches learning vocabulary by subjects which is a great learning method. The book is Master "insert language" Vocabulary a Thematic Approach.Start by learning basic vocabulary and common phrases. Then you can practice making your own sentences. Think about things that you say everyday in English but probably don't think about and make list. Then start learning these essential conversational pieces.

3. BE A COPY CAT - Then you can practice making your own sentences. Think about things that you say everyday in English but probably don't think about and make list. Then start learning these essential conversational pieces.You could buy some language learning software or CDs but I recommend searching for popular movies or books on tape that are in your language of interest. Play a short portion and try and understand as much as possible and then play it over and over again.

 As you do this mimic what each person says. Focus on pronunciation and accent. This will help you train your ear and help you get used to different vocal patterns and mouth movements that make speaking a different language difficult and intimidating. This will allow you to learn from natives and prepare for you to do the real thing.

4. LOOK FOR PATTERNS - When you start to learn more complex grammatical concepts you want to try and simplify every idea. You don't need to know the fine details or to be able to make a valid argument regarding the value of prepositions.Conjugations - Especially in Latin languages there are patterns for every conjugation. Learn and memorize patterns of 5 verbs and then apply all of the same patterns to all of the other verbs that you learn. Some people will look at conjugations and feel overwhelmed and maybe even give up, but conjugations are simple if you take the time to learn and memorize the patterns that can be applied to all verbs.

Note: This principle is not perfect because there are exceptions and irregular verbs that do not follow the regular patterns, but looking for patterns is a very efficient toolThen you can practice making your own sentences. Think about things that you say everyday in English but probably don't think about and make list. Then start learning these essential conversational pieces.Sounds - When you start focusing on pronunciation again you want to look for patterns. Break each word into syllables and enunciate each one.

 Look for groups of letters that make specific sounds when grouped and then you will be able to recognize them in new words, large complex words. This will allow you to break the words down to smaller parts that are not as difficult to sound out. Once you do this start saying the word slowly focusing on each syllable. As you become comfortable begin saying the word at a normal speed. Don't fall into the pitfall of trying to say words at the speed a native would speak. This will only hurt you in the long run. Others will understand that you are learning and will appreciate the fact that you are speaking correctly and clearly. Remember the tortoise wins the race.

5. READ OUT LOUD - This is an essential step in learning to speak any language. This will allow you to use all of the previous mentioned techniques. I recommend starting with easy books like comics or books for 8 - 12 yr olds. For example if you are trying to learn Spanish I recommend finding a comic that you are familiar with like Garfield in Spanish and reading it. The sentences are simple straight forward and easy to translate.

These books are great because they are not written to be difficult literary masterpieces and they are very conversational. Which is meets our goal of learning to speak the language in a natural setting.First, keep a dictionary close by because you will most likely need to look up words. By reading out loud you will learn new vocabulary for specific situations and see how it is used in real life.Secondly this is a great opportunity to speak the language. Practice reading the words slowly and clearly breaking them up into syllables if necessary.

By reading out loud you will be able to get used to making the new sounds, using muscles in new ways that is associated with a new language without the pressure of having others around you.Last, you will start to learn new words, recognize words you already know which will help you remember them, and you will learn new sayings and recognize patterns in the language.

Sep 20, 2011

A Few Online Resources to Learn Chinese

On LearnChinese, you can learn everything about Chinese language from scratch including its history, how it is related to Chinese culture, vocabulary, correct usage of grammar and the best feature is that it even allows you to practice Chinese speaking and writing without asking for any fee. You can even subscribe to the newsletter which is quite helpful in learning Chinese. To avail this service, all you have to do is provide your email address and name and every month, the newsletter will automatically reach your inbox.

Chinese-Tools
Chinese-Tools is another popular website which offers you a step by step guidance towards learning Chinese. It contains a series of audio lectures based on various aspects of Chinese language. You can also take forty lectures which have been designed by experts to make you learn Chinese in an easy and appropriate manner.

LearningChineseOnline
LearningChineseOnline is another resource for gaining a moderate aptitude of Chinese. The website shares more or less similar features with the aforementioned websites. What separates it from the pack is its section which offers you access to the Chinese language database and directs you to online bookstores where you can purchase books and CDs/DVDs at reasonable prices. The website also connects you to various colleges and universities which offer courses in Chinese language; the course charges and duration are kept at optimum.

Disadvantages of Distance Learning

 
  Disadvantages of Distance Learning
  One may be surprised to learn that there are few disadvantages of online courses when compared to the traditional mode of education which may have repercussions on different aspects of life.
  Absence of Social Interaction
  Students who are enrolled in distance learning programs often miss the aura of social interaction with teacher and their peers. Although distance learning students are required to participate in discussion boards, chat forum or via e-mail, but that differs greatly from the interaction on campus.
  Inappropriate Format for Everyone
  Not everyone is suitable for enrollment in correspondence programs especially if a person tends to lag behind their work, lacks motivation and requires individual coaching from their teacher. Some people learn only when they’re physically present in the class and assimilating all the information personally.
  No Acceptance of Online Degree
  At times, the viability of online degrees is doubted, and sometimes people see a stigma associated with it. It’s always a good idea to check with the corporate companies if they accept online degree or not to avoid any future consequences.
  Complicated Technology Carrying Hidden Costs
  Some people find unpredictable hidden costs in the course of pursuing online courses. At times, the technology employed is very complicated with a required beforehand planning of equipment and system set-up.
  Non-Availability of Relevant Courses
  Students pursuing a distance learning degree may not always find all the necessary courses available online. For instance one would find much easier to complete a psychology course online as compared to a technician course for which hands on practical training would be considered mandatory. So not all correspondence courses always fulfill individual course requirements.
  Lack of Instant Feedback
  Many times students are not given an instant feedback concerning their performance, as they would get when enrolled in a traditional school set-up. When personally attending college, the instructor gets a chance to assess students personally based upon their spontaneous performance, but in a distance learning set-up, the instructor’s ability for an instant feedback minimizes because of a visual gap.

Sep 19, 2011

Advantages of Distance Learning

Over the past few years, distance learning has emerged as a popular and an acceptable mode of acquiring academic credentials. With no traffic commute and money spent on fuel, an individual can add to his or her academic standing through distance learning.But as every system has few pros and cons associated with them, there are also advantages and disadvantages of distance learning which need to be examined carefully. Let us carefully look at the advantages and disadvantages of correspondence courses.
Few advantages and disadvantages of distance learning are:
Flexible Pace
With an online learning system, students can access their course from anywhere provided they have an internet access and a computer. This enables students to study when and where ever it’s feasible for them without managing the class attendance hassle amidst of a busy routine.
No Travelling Costs
Signing up for online courses is an effective method of reducing gas /petrol expenses as most of the work is home based and since trips are saved going to and from campus, ample time is conserved.
Various Choices for Educational Institutions
In case one happens to live in a community with minimal college options, opting for various reputable institutions can be possible through distance learning. Distance learning in such circumstances would provide one with a broader educational context with a variety of course offerings compatible with one’s field.
Simultaneous Management of Job
Since distance learning courses are managed according to one’s own pace, usually it becomes easy to manage studies with job. Being able to focus on one’s job enables a person to take care of their recurring expenses, thus providing them with a stable living while completing their education online.
Opportunity to Gain Additional Skills
In the course of completing distance learning courses, one acquires a great deal of knowledge that was gained through browsing, surfing or just dealing with computers. That know-how can be applied to other surfaces of life.
Low Course Fee
Generally distance learning courses are of low costs as compared to courses offered in a traditional setting. One can earn a good quality degree or a diploma at a fairly low tuition price.

Sep 7, 2011

French Learning Tips for Beginners

  
Buy a Good French Dictionary and Grammar Guide

  The foremost thing you need to do is buy a handy English to French dictionary; spend a reasonable time understanding how a word in English is spelled and pronounced in French. Also purchase a quality book on French grammar so as to familiarize yourself with the tenses and verbs in French—although usage of most of the tenses in French share similarity with those of English but the structure may differ.
Think French Words and Phrases
Another simple and tested way to learn French is that whenever something comes in your mind; try to translate it into French. For instance, say to yourself: “You are beautiful” in English and then “Too ess tray bell” in French. Cool! Frequently practice this tip while you are driving, walking, jogging, cooking, swimming etc.
Listen to French Music
Quit listening to English songs and French up your music taste. Listen to old and new French songs while focusing on the lyrics; this will also bring your closer to the French culture.
Improvise Your Vocabulary: Talk in French
Try to converse with your family and friends in French; you will be amazed at how much you learn this way. You can also practice writing and speaking French with your pen pals who speak French or any French instructor in a nearby college.
French Up Your Stuff
On small paper chits, write in French the name of your daily use items and tape those items with these labels. This way whenever you see the items and their French name, the language learning process will become easy and interesting at the same time.
Hope you find these simple tips useful. Happy French-ing!

Sep 6, 2011

Learn German Language?

No language is easy to learn but when it comes to learning German, anyone can master it easily because of its simple and noble rules. German is a logical and orderly language with foundation adopted from Greek and Latin just like English.
German is closely related to English so, English speakers are much comfortable in learning German as compared to Spanish and French; two languages widely learned by people across the globe after English.
Quick Guidelines to Learn German Fast

  Here are a few tips which will be of much help to those who really want to know how to learn German:
Tell yourself that you want to learn German because without a strong will from inside, learning won’t last.
Spend some bucks on purchasing quality books on vocabulary, grammar guides, poetry and novels in German; also buy tutorials in forms of audio and video cassettes to build a comprehensive understanding of German language and its norms.
Make it a daily practice to translate words and small phrases of English into German; this will speed up the language learning process and you will feel more involved.
Whether you are at office, school, travelling or having a relaxing day at home, always carry in your pocket a small notepad and pen and write down words and verbs in German as they strike your mind and then revise later. With this practice, your ability to memorize will certainly improve.
Before diving into the advanced stuff, you should first learn how to write and pronounce your name, your address and names of daily use items in German.
If you have friends or colleagues who can understand and communicate in German; their assistance can really pay off.
In order to make the hard process of language learning a little less overwhelming, watch German dramas and movies on television and listen to German songs; this will bring you more close to the language and culture.

Sep 5, 2011

Quick and Easy Tips for Learning Chinese

The Chinese language is the most extensively spoken language in the world with 1.1 billion speakers. It is the second most rampant language used online, with almost 15 % of internet users speaking Mandarin Chinese. There are some aspects of the Chinese language which makes it easier to learn it faster than other languages.
Chinese has a very simplified grammar compared to English and other Neo-Latin language because its words do not change in the past, present or future according to tenses. Learn the Chinese language quickly by stressing upon appropriate, easier learning objectives and temporarily put off learning complex words.
If you want to learn Chinese fast, follow these guidelines and you will achieve rapid results.

  Begin with Chinese Alphabets
Start off your learning journey by first learning its alphabets called Chinese Pinyin. If you want to learn Chinese fast, go through the Pinyin Chinese. Take one alphabet, one by one, understand it, learn it and then feed in your brain.
One of the biggest benefits of Pinyin Chinese is that it makes pronunciation easy for foreign speakers, and they can easily interpret the sounds of words through it.
There are four main intonations used in Chinese pinyin; they are highlighted above the vowel or vowels on each word. Not all words have an enunciation, but most words have a touch of at least one of them.
Tips for Quickly Memorizing Chinese Characters
Go slow and steady
Make an effort to memorize Chinese characters one by one. Don’t bombard yourself with dozens at one time. Although there are countless Chinese characters, you only need one or two thousand words to communicate in an everyday flow of life.
Linguistic experts say that you will understand 89 percent of the language with just 1,000 words and 97 percent understanding will take place with 2,000 words.
Make flashcards
The best way to learn them is to write each character on a flashcard and then write its English meaning and pinyin version of the character on the opposite side. In this way, you will be able to retain what you learn.
Post vocabulary notes around you
Perhaps the fast and most convenient way to learn Chinese fast is to stick post notes around your house. The essential way to build on your vocabulary is to constantly encounter and play with the words until you’ve well imprinted them in your brain.
This will serve as the handiest method for assimilating vocabulary in your everyday life whether you are learning pinyin or characters. Just post vocabulary notes all around you and you will be speaking Chinese fluently even in your dreams while you sleep.

Sep 2, 2011

Tips on Learning English


Actually, broadening/improving one’s language skills is a very broad concept, it should be done in more than one ways at the same time which is highly recommended. One can NOTbecome better ONLY in one area, say, chatting, one MUST improve skills in ALL dimensions of the language!

  Learning language well requires being as active as possible and making the learning as FUNfor oneself as possible. Taking lessons is always important, but equally important are these:
1) Listen/watch: Keep listening to internet radio stations like BBC, watch TV shows in English (use only subtitles, NOT voice dubbing in case you are not a native English speaker!), etc.
2) Write/communicate: Try to find discussion forums from the web about things that you find interesting and FUN (music/various artists, hobbies, etc.) and start communicating there with other people using only English. Start using instant messaging systems in case you find some new friends or start emailing them. Please do NOT be afraid of making mistakes or hesitating, because even native speakers do make mistakes and do hesitate at times! The more you enjoy communicating, the better!
3) Buy yourself a proper dictionary, and each time when you see a strange word that you do not understand, look it up. Putting words into their CONTEXT is one of the best ways to broaden one’s vocabulary and grammar knowledge, the more you read and write the better. Memorising is NOT the best way to go with learning vocabulary, grammar or any other language areas! For idioms, you should buy an all-English dictionary which explains the words in English and shows you examples of how to use the words.
The main point in ANY language learning is to make it as fun as possible for yourself. Try to find topics that INTEREST you, read online newspapers (Times, Guardian, Independent…), listen to BBC/NBC and other radio stations online, if you find adiscussion forum for e.g. your favourite hobby or your idols in music do participate there, etc. The key word here isCONTEXT, which means that it is easier to learn new words and their usage as well as grammar when you use/see them in their real CONTEXT. The more you see and hear the new words in their context and the more you use them in your speech & writing, the easier it becomes to remember their meanings and correct spelling. Do NOT be afraid of making mistakes though, because even native speakers do make mistakes and do hesitate at times!
I’m sorry there is NO EASY WAY out with this, one really must develop language skills in ALLthese language “levels” or dimensions in order to reach better language skills!!
Last but not least: NEVER EVER use ANY online translators, they are nothing but utter rubbish!! English is practically EVERYWHERE in the online world these days, you just have to use your imagination to find it! Learning pace is always personal, it takes the time it takes so there is no reason to hurry it up too much. If you do, you will not learn so well. Also, please learn the basics of the standard English first before advancing to finer details like dialects/accents. A word of warning though: Do stay well away from overrated, overpriced and overhyped language “gimmicks” such as Rosetta Stone, they really are NOT worth for checking out!