I'm doing 3 things
I’ve finished my first ten (shi) lessons in Mandarin. I’ve been using Pimsleur Mandarin Chinese I, and I have to say, this is perhaps the best method of language learning I’ve used: rip ‘em to MP3, load them up on my iPod, and away I go. Since I always have my iPod with me, it’s super convenient. Plus, I can have the whole series, rather than having to carry around like 30 CDs. And, the series itself is really well done, and I find I’m retaining most of the information. Very well structured.
So far, I can say really basic things (which, interestingly enough, sound like pick-up lines):
- Would you like to go to the hotel with me?
- I would like to have something to drink with you later.
- Is 9 o’clock okay?
- You speak English very well.
- Etc…
The other two things that are very, very helpful are a couple of podcasts: SBS Radio Mandarin and ChinesePod. I have no idea what they’re saying most of the time on SBS, but every so often I pick up a word or two. Still, it’s good to hear the sounds, and it’s a good listening exerciese.
