Patty WillisStudent
“Learning a new language can be quite daunting especially if trying to learn Chinese! However, thanks to Pinyin and a fabulous teacher it is quite easy! My teacher uses pictures, pinyin (Chinese phonetic alphabet), repetitive activities and/or games to help you practice. Then, she planned adventures out to practice what you learned! A trip to the market (including how to get there) where you bought food, clothing, etc. or to a restaurant to order a local dish! Within a few short weeks, I was going to the market on my own, asking for amounts, making purchases, riding the subway, and making appointments for hair or nails on the phone. We always looked forward to lessons, we’re very pleased with our ability to communicate and enjoyed all the city had to offer. Although I did not practice as often as I should have, I did use all I could daily and became confident enough to ride in a taxi, order at Starbucks or a restaurant, order a rotisserie chicken from the French Bakery over the phone, buy tickets for a tour, and ride my scooter from Chaoyang Park to the Pearl Market! It was a true accomplishment!”
