Learning a new language opens a whole new universe.
Learning to Read Vs. Reading to Acquire
You don’t acquire the ability to read, but reading is the most effective way to acquire language. After turning 40, I wanted to do something that would challenge me and push my life and career to a new level. With zero prior experience and no other motive than my own internal drive, I committed to…
For the Love of Reading
Extensive reading is sustained, fluent, enjoyable reading for the purpose of building language. If you follow the news in public education, you have likely seen a national push for legislation aimed at improving early literacy instruction. The ‘Science of Reading’ movement advocates for better instructional materials and teacher preparation in evidence-based reading strategies, especially in…
From Kind-of-Compehensible to Totally Comprehensible
I can read, write, speak, and listen comfortably on a range of topics in Chinese. Six years ago I began conducting the greatest action research project of my life. In my early 40s and with zero prior knowledge, I determined I would learn Mandarin Chinese. My purpose was to learn from firsthand experience what works…
Writing Development: The Missing Link
Writing may be the missing link that is preventing your students from leveling up their language abilities. In my study of Mandarin Chinese, I often feel like my learning is characterized by long flat stretches of stagnation, punctuated by sudden, even unexpected increases in proficiency. As your students progress in their language learning journey, they…
How to Start Learning Mandarin
My recommendations for the best resources to start your language learning journey. Several followers have asked me the same question: How do I start learning Mandarin? Let me share with you how I started, what I learned, and how you can avoid making the same mistakes. I began my Mandarin learning journey by enrolling in…
Mind Over Mattress
It’s 4:59 AM and your alarm is set to go off in 1 minute. Your brain automatically wakes you from an all-too-short night’s rest in dreadful anticipation. You now have a choice: you can reset your alarm and take that extra half hour to sleep, or you can drag yourself to your study nook and…
The Hidden Key to Learning a New Language
What I am about to share with you will forever change your approach to learning a new language. This is only my second post, but I just can’t keep this to myself. It’s time to let the cat out of the bag. What I am about to share with you is the hidden key to…
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Prolingual 