Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Chinese in Toronto and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have several principal options for learning Chinese interactively in Toronto. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, ask about the centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your second option can be local specialized language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can look for a private Chinese tutor in Toronto. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Toronto and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Chinese and how much should Chinese tutors ask?
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 price of about 50 course hours each semester. Language academies and individual Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, experience and student demand. Real student rating average 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 to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and tests, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so challenging and are there ways to learn it faster?
Standardized 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 five hours a week you will be able to understand common expressions, be understood when you talk, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Chinese?
Some people 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 dedication. The amount of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of Chinese or proficiency in 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 TV, write by hand and online using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Chinese tutor?
In colleges and universities, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, of course! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with detailed 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 usually schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools usually have 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.