I think that most young people here in China have spent more time studying English than most of us have spent studying Mandarin. They've put in years of effort and have had very little opportunity to practice speaking with native speakers. Even though it can get a bit tiresome at times, I really have to admire their zeal to practice and learn. If I have the time, I will speak with them in English but ask questions about Mandarin....how would I say that in Mandarin? Could I also say it like this?...etc. I don't feel used, and they get a chance to speak.
Failing that, I will ask them to share their opinions and insights on current Chinese culture and events, politics, the economy, the educational system, almost anything. I find most people are refreshingly open and frank and very eager to share their views. I've had some great conversations. Maybe I don't get to practice, but I think there's a lot more to learning Chinese than just learning to speak the language.
Keep up the good work, Chinesepod! The site just keeps getting better and better.
Posted on: Language Power Struggle
April 18, 2009 at 3:48 PMI think that most young people here in China have spent more time studying English than most of us have spent studying Mandarin. They've put in years of effort and have had very little opportunity to practice speaking with native speakers. Even though it can get a bit tiresome at times, I really have to admire their zeal to practice and learn. If I have the time, I will speak with them in English but ask questions about Mandarin....how would I say that in Mandarin? Could I also say it like this?...etc. I don't feel used, and they get a chance to speak.
Failing that, I will ask them to share their opinions and insights on current Chinese culture and events, politics, the economy, the educational system, almost anything. I find most people are refreshingly open and frank and very eager to share their views. I've had some great conversations. Maybe I don't get to practice, but I think there's a lot more to learning Chinese than just learning to speak the language.
Keep up the good work, Chinesepod! The site just keeps getting better and better.
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