My purpose is to introduce Ms. Emily H. Chang and her book to the world. I was lucky enough to be her student for three intensive weeks at the National Taiwan Normal University in 2014.
Her passion for teaching really shines through in person and this book is just an extension of that. She is diligent about making sure Mandarin Chinese students are actually learning and understanding the material. There’s no rote memorization with her.
In class she keeps things fresh and interesting with a variety activities and that attitude is also reflected in this book. Her teaching method is not typical, it keeps the learner engaged and interested. When learning a new language, it is key to build a strong and solid foundation.
Of course in the beginning it can be difficult and boring which is why beginner learners will benefit from the games and exercises in her new book. I enjoyed the group classes with her immensely because she challenged each of the students to learn the language correctly the first time, from grammar to pronunciation to vocabulary.
Emily H. Chang is an educator in the truest sense and I hope her book will help many future Mandarin Chinese learners begin that foundation.