The LCC offers a range of software options to study languages and enhance learning languages. Here are some of the resources:
More information on the language learning softwares can be found here.
To better understand grammar, it can be useful to look at real examples of how a particular structure or word is used. A "concordancer" is a tool that lets you search for a particular word, phrase or pattern, pulling out example sentences from a database of texts (which might be news articles, novels, speeches, etc.).
A search engine, like Google, can also be a quick, easy way to investigate questions like "What's the right way to say this?" Limit your results by domain to a country where the language is spoken (e.g., websites that end in ".es" for Spain). The more correct or natural wording will usually generate more search results.
It's important to practice expressing yourself in your new language--saying what you want to say, outside of the shelter of the classroom. Do you like meeting new people? You might enjoy a language/conversation exchange, where you connect with someone (from around the world!) who speaks the language you're learning, and who is trying to learn the language you speak. The websites below can help you find a conversation partner.
If you decide to pursue a language exchange, please be cautious about sharing personal information, to keep your identity and your person safe. While some language exchanges turn into lifelong friendships, others fizzle out after the first meeting, so don't be disappointed if your exchange doesn't last. Be upfront with potential conversation partners about your expectations: How often/how long do you want to meet? How much time will you spend speaking in each language? Do you want your partner to correct your language? Do you want to choose topics or talk about whatever comes up?
Here is a selection of fun apps that you can access online related to Chinese:
Pleco Chinese Dictionary is both a dictionary and a learning companion. It contains flashcards to test your writing in-put and a camera feature so that you can search for a character with your phone's camera.
HelloChinese is an interactive app that teaches beginner Chinese. They have lessons on character, conversation, and Pinyin.
ChineseSkill is an app for beginner Mandarin learners. It contains over 500+ lessons, which touches on the four cores of language learning––listening, speaking, writing, and talking.
Chinese television network. Users can access free video lessons and Chinese language learning resources.
Includes articles and short stories in Chinese ranging in level of difficulty. Each story includes Chinese characters, pinyin, and English translation.
Utilizes video instruction. Includes free lessons and features a YouTube channel.
Here is a selection of newspapers that you can access online related to Chinese:
News with coverage on the economy, science and technology, and local and international politics. The text is published in China and is written in both Chinese and English.
News with coverage on the economy, science and technology, and local and international politics. The text is published in China and is written in both Chinese and English.
News that was published in The New York Times and then translated into Chinese.
Covers news in North America, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China. The text is published in North America and is written in both Chinese and English.
Here is a selection of podcasts that you can access online related to Chinese:
ChinesePod is a beginner-friendly podcast that aims to make learning Mandarin easy and entertaining.
NüVoices is a podcast that features the work of women in media, academia, and the arts.
OutChina features LGBTQ+ people in China. The show touches on the topic of self-identification.
