Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Chinese in Sydney and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have a few main choices for learning Chinese interactively in Sydney. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are a little more affordable.) Your second resource can be local for-profit language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can find a private Chinese tutor in Sydney. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Sydney and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Chinese and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Chinese tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 course hours each semester. Language academies and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Chinese tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, experience and popularity. Average student satisfaction for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.95 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and testing, so research the details in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so hard and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. According to experts, 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 expressions, speak on some level, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Chinese?
Some people seem to have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will require at least 600 hours of dedication. The length of time can differ by a lot depending on your available level of Chinese or familiarity with other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try additional 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.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Chinese instructor?
In language centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, certainly! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges as a rule run classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can choose your own lesson frequency and time, on weekdays and/or weekends.