Learning Resources
Like all other machine-based translators, dictionaries, converters, including Google Translate, etc., there is a significant potential for error and imprecision. While these are helpful resources to refer to in your learning of Chinese, please do not rely on them entirely and check across platforms, with your textbook and notes, or with your instructor.
- Reading Chinese Text Out Loud – I would recommend the Chinese TW (female) speaker at 0 speed, and the Chinese CN (female) speaker at -2 speed. Chinese (HK) is for Cantonese, rather than Mandarin Chinese.
- Chinese-English Dictionary
- Another online Chinese-English dictionary. – This one provides an easy way of toggling between Simplified and Traditional Chinese, and has a read aloud function, with Pinyin as well.
- Chinese to Pinyin Converter
- A Mandarin Chinese-English Dictionary with a function to assist you in learning Chinese character strokes and components.
- Simplified Chinese character to Traditional Chinese character Converter
- Chinese stroke order – Learn to write Chinese characters correctly.
- Simple instructions for how to install Chinese pinyin keyboard
- Pinyin Chart with Audio
- Very useful Pinyin Converter with tonal marks and annotations that provide English definitions when you hover across words.
- http://www.strokeorder.info/ – Another site for stroke order
- https://www.chinesehideout.com/ – A great site for learning Chinese, has a system for stroke order guide
- https://wyomingllcattorney.com/Blog/Business-Skills-Learn-Mandarin-Chinese – This is a site run by Wyoming LLC & Trust Attorney, which has a list of additional resources for learning Chinese. This site was recommended to me by Hailey, a local girl scout who was learning more about Chinese language and culture for her virtual “World Thinking Day”. Kudos to Hailey, Robin, and Hailey’s fellow girl scouts for their interest in learning more about the world’s many languages and cultures!
YouTube
- Mandarin Chinese Pronunciation – short clips to help you pronounce certain phrases and words in Chinese
- Twin Cities Chinese Tutor – Short, illustrated videos
- AllSet Learning – Many videos to help you with pronunciation and tough sounds
- AllSet Learning’s Website for help on Grammar Points and Keywords
- Everyday Chinese – Slow, easy-to-follow videos for learners of the Chinese language
- JJsays – American YouTuber who speaks fluent Chinese and has many popular videos detailing her learning process, including sharing tips on how to better learn Chinese.
- 莫彩曦Hailey – Another American YouTuber who makes Chinese vlogs about her life and her journey learning Chinese.
- Mamahuhu – Skits about living in China, Chinese culture, expat culture etc.
Other Opportunities for Learning
- Monthly Lunch and Learn: Mandarin Language and Culture – You can watch their recordings from previous sessions, as well as learn more about Chinese art and culture.
- Hosted by China Institute in America
- Free, online, monthly ‘Read-Aloud’ series for Chinese language learners of all levels.
- Available dates: 18 September, 12-1245pm and 16 October, 12-1245pm.