Proper planning and access to the best resources available will help you achieve VCE success!
We have identified several essential resources for students preparing for Chinese Language VCE studies
1. Learn the Rules of the Game. Check out VCE Chinese Website
Albert Einstein said "You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else." To get the rules visit the VCAA Chinese Study Page.
Some of the main resources available on this site:
- Study Summary (doc – 57kb) (February 2013)
A summary of the VCE Chinese Study Design for 2005-2016.
- Assessment Handbook (doc - 247kb) (Updated August 2013)
Contains assessment advice for both school-assessed coursework and the examinations including the examination criteria.
Find past exams and sample exams for Chinese.
Contains resources to assist in the implementation of Units 1-4 including detailed study samples and assessment advice for Units 1 and 2.
2. Use the Dictionary
Nciku online dictionary is comprehensive providing translations of even obscure terms such as medical or legal terms. This online resource has a quality handwriting recognition. The design is excellent and an excellent feature is offer a community of users. Hear the pronunciation of words and both characters and pinyin are shown.
MDBG Chinese Online Dictionary offers both Simplified and Traditional Chinese. This is a well-designed site that loads data quickly. The handwriting recognition is superb which will come in handy when one does not know Pinyin or the word pronunciation. A site user can search on Pinyin, Simplified and Traditional Chinese and add results directly to your “Skritter�? account.
The site also provides a list of radicals and for each of the words within the radical appears. An excellent resource to help in understanding word construction. Other features include, various tools such as: flashcards, quizzes, text annotation and Chinese text input.
3. Build Your Vocabulary
Using flashcards is a brilliant way to increase vocabulary retention and memorise verb conjugations. Anki is a great app for creating your own flashcard decks – or you can choose from hundreds of their pre-loaded options.
Another tip is to learn the top Chinese characters effortlessly. Knowing all these characters instinctively will help both your speaking and writing skills by providing a solid vocabulary base. You can find the list here.
An extensive Chinese course resource containing audio, textbook and workbook. Developed by the USA’s Foreign Service Institute and currently an independent, non-profit entity established to promote language learning all free to enjoy. This core course contains 9 modules and an additional 8 modules are also available.
5. Chinese Grammar Guide
For many new Chinese learners grammar can be a challenge. Chinese grammar is different from English grammar and can be complete. Mastering how create words, construct phrases and string together sentences is an essential part of learning Chinese. A resource precisely designed to assist is http://www.chinesegrammar.info/
6. How about some fun and games?
Let’s face it, it important to allow for downtime in order to relax and recharge. Ditch the Flappy Birds or Candy Crush games and opt for an equally fun app named ChineseSkill. It is free. Students can hear native pronunciation and learn Chinese characters while playing mini-games. The game engages the player to use their reading, writing and listening skills. The game player gets challenged to achieve new higher scores and level up and compete with friends. The contents is organised into various tasks and skills which are practical and keep learning motivation active.
7. http://www.chinese-forums.com/
A forum to post questions and help out your colleague. The site has been online since 2003 we've been helping people learn Chinese, study and work in China, find Chinese books, movies or music. We are active, friendly and helpful. Check out recent and popular posts on the home page, see the full forums listing or sign up for free now.
Member quotes:
"This forum is a goldmine of information, and I'm so glad it's here!"
"...the kindest, most interesting and most useful help."
"...a godsend!"
6. Tap into French Language Radio or TV
CCTV is the leading French language channel broadcasting 24 hours a day, 7 days a week without commercial interruptions. You’ll find China news, culture business travel feature CCTV-9 Internet broadcasting.
Offers audio news and an additional learning Chinese.
7. Listen to a Podcast
Another way to help surround oneself in Chinese is by listening to a podcast. While walking to school or waiting for the bus listen to ChinesePod to hear culturally relevant lessons that are free and created by native speakers.
8. Study Partner
Have a study partner to help you stay accountable and together you can practice, practice and practice. Find a study partner at your school or participate in a virtual language exchange. Practice your conversational skills with native speakers.
And lastly enjoy the journey! It will soon be over!