Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Chinese in Redding, CA and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have 4 primary options for learning Chinese interactively in Redding, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, research centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are cheaper.) Your other spource can be local private language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can look for a private Chinese tutor in Redding, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Redding, CA and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it to learn Chinese and what does a lesson with a tutor of Chinese cost?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 class hours each semester. Language academies and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and student demand. Average reviews for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Chinese do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and graded tasks, so research each program in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese not easy and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand most sentences, express yourself, shop and place orders in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to learn Chinese?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will necessitate at least 600 hours of active use. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of Chinese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, try typing using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Chinese coach?
In colleges and universities, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, of course! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with extensive profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges run classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.