Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Chinese in Bronx, NY and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 main possibilities for learning Chinese interactively in Bronx, NY. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, read about centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are cheaper.) Your second option can be local commercial language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can opt for a private Chinese tutor in Bronx, NY. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Bronx, NY and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Chinese and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Chinese tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of fifty or so course hours each semester. Language schools and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Chinese tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, availability and student demand. Average reviews 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. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and exams, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so hard and are there ways to learn it faster?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. Realistically, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand many sentences, speak on some level, socialize in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and enjoyable 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 students.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Chinese?
Some people brag about their 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 amount of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of Chinese or familiarity with other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Chinese tutor?
In learning centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, of course! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with detailed profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools give 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.