You might at first find it quite challenging during Mandarin classes since it has different alphabets, varying tones, and rich vocabularies. In addition to that, tutors and classmates may seem intimidating. Even so, commitment and routine practice will certainly help you master the language. That’s why focus on your goal and never stop halfway. Here are things you can expect from your Mandarin classes.

Using Four Mandarin Tones

Because Mandarin is a tonal language, you should use some words in different tonal correctly. Different tones will deliver different meanings. There are four main tones in Mandarin you should acknowledge.

• The first tone is a high, flat tone. When using the first tone, keep your voice flat and do not raise your tone. The first tone is specified by the symbol above the letter a: “mā”.

• The second tone is a rising tone. Raise your voice into a middle pitch. It is indicated by the symbol “má”.

• The third tone is a dipping tone. The pitch gets higher as you start from the middle to low and end it to high. The third tone is shown by the symbol “mǎ”.

• The fourth tone is lowering. When using the fourth tone, the pitch goes rapidly from high to low. It is indicated by the symbol “mà”.

New Vocabularies Each Day

Mastering more words will help you through your Mandarin classes. Start with simple words that are mostly used in daily activities—for example, times of day, body parts, and basic greetings.

Create your mini-dictionary or flashcards. Still, keep in mind that accuracy is important. Remember the first role that pronouncing the right tones will deliver the correct meaning. That is why make sure you say it right.

Basic Conversational Clauses

Just like learning other languages, when learning Mandarin, you can start by practicing basic conversational phrases. Memorize how to introduce yourself, ask someone’s name, greet someone, or say that you don’t understand in Mandarin.

One Step at a Time

When taking the classes, you are expected to understand four forms of language learning: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. At first, most teachers will focus on speaking and listening. Later on, the programs take a step further by incorporating reading and writing.

Basic Grammar

Grammar does exist in Mandarin. However, they are quite different from other language grammars. Even though they have no specific rules about plural nouns, tenses, or gender, they applied their own set of grammar rules that can’t be found in English.

Those are several things you can expect when joining Mandarin classes. The most important thing is don’t be too harsh on yourself. Learning needs a process.