Learning Method: Rhythmic Chinese

The rhythmic chinese series adopts several principles that make Chinese easy to understand, and even easier to store in your long-term memory. (Double) click on the "Play" button below to listen to a sample track, and then you can compare for yourself the content of the demo recording, with the principles outlined here.

1. Word groups: The CDs focus on essential word groups that often appear together, rather than individual words. In this way you get exposure to logical language groups that you will most frequently meet in the real world.

2. Music & Rhythm has been used for thousands of years to support memory and learning. When information is presented with music, your brain goes into a relaxed and receptive state. Scientific research into accelerated learning has shown a 20-50% increase in the number of words remembered when they are introduced using music and rhythm.

3. Memory Hooks: If you’ve ever remembered something because it was funny or ridiculous you’ll know what a “memory hook” is. In this CD we have created “memory hooks” to link your new Chinese sounds to things you already know in English. We've created memory hooks for over 60% of the content of the CD. You can find these in the bonus program. Have a listen and see how well these hooks help you move the new words into long-term memory.

4. Starting with what you know: If you’re hearing Chinese for the first time, without knowing what it means, this can be frustrating. That’s why all the materials in this CD are presented with English first. First you’ll hear English, then you’ll hear the Chinese that you already understand because you just heard the English! So, rather than trying to guess what the Chinese might mean, you simply relax into noticing how Chinese is put together to communicate the meaning you’ve already mastered.

5. Chinese Language Logic: The word order, the grammar, and components in Chinese are different to that of English. To help you understand this Chinese logic, we often present the initial English phrases to you using that same logic. The phrases may seem strange in English, but you very quickly see how words are strung together to make meaning in Chinese. In this way you pick up Chinese language rules with minimal effort.

6. Rational Overview: As an adult learner you probably also want some rational ideas of how Mandarin is put together. These are included in the bonus material. We also give tips and hints that help you avoid the most common mistakes that new learners of Mandarin tend to make. You won’t waste time stumbling around trying to work things out.

Your can get your copy of a rhythmic chinese CD today, or simply register for Third Ear Thinking - our FREE guide to better language learning.