Blog Entries

Priceless Words

The pitfalls of semantics in cross-linguistic communication.

Blog Entries

Social Distance

Is it "social distance" or "physical distance?" What's the difference and why does it matter to language and culture learners?

Blog Entries

We Live in Different Worlds

How does a student of language enter another culture? It takes more than classroom experience.

Blog Entries

How to Learn a Language, Part 2

How to Work Hard

Working hard is vital to effective language learning—but you have to know how to work hard.

Blog Entries

How to Learn a Language, Part 1

Criteria for Success

What is essential for successful language learning? 

Blog Entries

Language vs. Attitude

If you intend to live and work in China, France, or wherever, check your attitude. With an attitude of acceptance, participation, immersion, you will not only develop meaningful relationships, but language acquisition will be enhanced.

Blog Entries

Out of the Fog

A Review of ACTFL Language Proficiency Tests

If you need an accurate assessment of what you can do in a language—and every language learner does—then the ACTFL offers one of the best options.

Blog Entries

Mastering Mandarin Pronunciation

A New Resource

You can learn to pronounce Mandarin accurately!

Blog Entries

Thoughts and Tips on Learning Chinese

Why had Chinese proven to be so intractable?

Blog Entries

Putonghua: Uniting a Linguistically Fractured China

During my travels around China people often said to me “Your Chinese is better than mine.” When I adamantly denied even the remote possibility that their assertion may be true, they would clarify: “Your Putonghua is better than mine.”