Sunday, October 6th
2024 Chinese Lesson Reviews
Memrise
- Free version available, Pro membership for $27.99/month or $130.99/year, Lifetime Pro access for $249.99
- Allows users to pick a proficiency level that matches their knowledge
- Combines pinyin, English translation, literal translation, and Chinese characters for an intuitive learning experience
- Authentic pronunciation from native speaker videos
- Lessons categorized by vocabulary and phrases from realistic scenarios
- Engaging, rapid-fire Speed Review quiz to test memory and recall
- Fun supplementary videos contain the words and phrases users have been learning
- MemBot AI allows users to practice conversing in Chinese without the fear of making mistakes
- High ratings with an average of 4.5 to 4.8 stars across Google Play Store and Apple App Store
Launched in 2009 with the backing of a Grand Master of Memory, Memrise offers a unique and fun approach to learning Chinese. Starting from any level of knowledge, you'll get a mix of pinyin, English and Chinese translations, characters, and videos from native speakers to immerse you fully. Lessons are delivered in the format of realistic scenarios. Despite some controversy over removing community courses, Memrise remains highly rated for its engaging content, including quick memory tests and AI chatbot conversations. With a free start and an option to upgrade to Pro for full access, Memrise is a dynamic and enjoyable way to boost your Chinese language skills, combining traditional methods with gamified learning to keep you motivated.
Fluenz
- Packages range from $187 to $322
- Over 100 video lessons for Mandarin fluency
- 30-day satisfaction guarantee
- Mimics one-on-one tutoring
- Tutors provide clear explanations based on English grammar
- Three levels of proficiency
- Accessible on all devices
Fluenz is a language-learning platform where you can learn Mandarin Chinese. It's a bit more expensive than other programs, and it doesn't let you try out a lesson before buying. We also thought it looked a bit outdated. The lessons feel like a traditional classroom, with videos, practice exercises, and a tutor in the videos to explain things in English. The course has three levels to help you go from basic to advanced skills. But remember, they only teach from the English perspective, and you won't learn to read or write Chinese characters. You can use the program on any device, but Fluenz just isn't competitive among the other online Chinese language classes in our review.
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The motivations for learning Chinese are as diverse and compelling as the language itself. Perhaps you're fascinated by the rich history and culture of China, eager to read its classical poetry or modern literature in its original form. Maybe you're looking to expand your business skills and communicate directly with the vast Chinese market. Or, you might dream of traveling through China, exploring everything from bustling cities to serene landscapes, all while engaging with locals in their native tongue.
Learning Chinese, however, presents a unique set of challenges unlike those found in learning languages like Spanish or French. For one, there's the intricate system of Chinese characters, each carrying its own meaning and pronunciation, which can seem daunting at first glance. Then, there's the tonal nature of Mandarin Chinese, where the meaning of a word can change dramatically with the pitch of your voice.
Chinese Lesson FAQ
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But don't let these hurdles deter you. With commitment and the right resources, you're on your way to fluency. Mastering Chinese opens up a universe of cultural, professional, and social opportunities, allowing you to connect with over a billion speakers worldwide.
Online Chinese lessons offer a variety of approaches to suit different learning preferences. For auditory learners, there are programs focused on immersive listening practices, helping you attune your ear to the nuances of the language. If you're game for a challenge, gamified learning platforms make acquiring new vocabulary and grammar points engaging, rewarding your progress with points and badges.
For those who prefer a more structured learning path, comprehensive courses provide a blend of video lessons, interactive quizzes, and writing exercises, ensuring you develop a well-rounded skill set, from character recognition and writing to speaking and listening.
And if personal interaction is what drives your learning, tutoring services connect you with native Chinese speakers for real-time conversation and cultural exchange, enriching your study with authentic experiences.
Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Here's what to consider as you begin your journey to learn Chinese:
- Current fluency level. Assess whether you're starting from scratch or if you have some knowledge of Chinese. Choose lessons that align with your starting point.
- Learning medium. Determine whether you prefer app-based lessons, audio files, desktop platforms, or another format that fits your lifestyle and learning habits.
- Skill focus. Decide if you want to concentrate on listening and speaking, reading and writing, or a combination. Remember, Chinese characters are essential for reading and writing, and tone practice is critical for understanding and being understood.
- Pinyin vs. characters. Consider if the app emphasizes learning through pinyin (the Romanization of Chinese sounds) or focuses more on teaching Chinese characters. Some learners may prefer starting with pinyin to master pronunciation before moving on to characters, while others might want to dive directly into character recognition and writing.
- Cost. Evaluate whether the lessons are priced as a one-time payment or require a subscription. Consider the value of free options and the benefits of paid upgrades.
- Learner reviews. Look for feedback from other learners. Their experiences can provide insight into the effectiveness of the platform and the time it may take to see progress.
To guide you to the best Chinese lessons for your goals and preferred learning style, our team at Top Consumer Reviews has tested today's leading options and provided honest feedback on what each one offers. So, what are you waiting for? Embark on your Chinese learning adventure today!
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