Learning Mandarin
For my free inquiry, I will be attempting to build a small foundation of Chinese Mandarin in preparation for my 6 week practicum in Taipei, Taiwan. While Mandarin is not the indigenous language of Taiwan, it is the most commonly spoken in Taipei, where I will be living and teaching. Other languages spoken in Taipei include Taiwanese Hokkien (Min Nan) and English.
Method
My primary method for learning Mandarin will be through a highly-rated app called “HelloChinese.” Similar to Duolingo, it prompts me everyday to practice Mandarin words and pronunciations, and to memorize Mandarin characters. The app claims, “10 minutes a day, fluent in 3 months,” of which I am highly skeptical, but I’m sure it will help me improve nonetheless.
My other means of learning Mandarin will be through talking to people. I know many people that speak Mandarin who can help me with my vocabulary and intonation.
How will it benefit me to learn a little Mandarin?
The primary reason that I am learning Mandarin is out of respect for visiting Taiwan. Because I will be a visitor in their country, I think it is appropriate to learn as much as I can about Taiwanese culture before visiting, and language is a large part of culture.
Beyond this, as a future teacher in Canada, I will undoubtedly teach and interact with many students that speak Mandarin as their first or second language. By gaining a small foundation in Mandarin, I will be able to be a more affective teacher for these students.
Goal
My goal is, starting today, to spend at least 5 minutes practicing Mandarin on the HelloChinese app from now until my departure in April. Perhaps I will continue when I land in Taiwan as well.
Wish me luck!