Getting started with Chinese 1

An introduction to the sound and script

This introduction is for people who want to speak Mandarin and feel drawn to its sound, its script and its long civilisation. It opens with the basics of how the language sounds and how it is written.

What to expect

The listing is short and cuts off before the course outline, so it is best treated as a first step rather than a complete curriculum. Its focus on sound and script suits a learner who wants to get a feel for the language before committing to more study.

Who it suits

• Curious learners who want to try Mandarin before committing.
• People interested in the language's ancient history and writing.
• Anyone who wants an orientation to Chinese before a longer course.

Pick this up as a first look, then decide whether a deeper course suits your goals.