In Hong Kong, as Mandarin becomes increasingly integrated into school curriculums, non-Chinese students often face significant challenges in learning the language. In non-international schools, many Chinese language programs are designed with native Chinese speakers in mind, making them less accessible for non-Chinese students. Given that Cantonese and English dominate the linguistic landscape in Hong Kong, learning Mandarin can be especially difficult for these children. When they struggle to keep up with their Mandarin classes, it’s crucial for parents to implement targeted strategies to help them overcome these challenges and gradually improve their Mandarin skills.
1. Seek Additional Help from Teachers Outside of Class
In many schools in Hong Kong, Chinese textbooks are often tailored for local Chinese-speaking students, which can make it challenging for non-Chinese students to learn the language. To address this, it’s helpful for children to seek additional guidance from their teachers after class. They should ask questions about fundamental aspects of Mandarin that they find difficult and inform their teachers about the areas where they need help. Regularly consulting with teachers can help bridge the gaps in their understanding and improve their learning experience.
2. Enroll in Mandarin Tutoring Class
Many specialized Mandarin tutoring programs are now available for non-Chinese students. These classes are tailored to meet the individual learning needs and progress of each student, offering customized instruction. They focus on strengthening weak areas, ensuring that students gain a better understanding and grasp of the material taught in school. The courses use teaching materials specifically designed for non-Chinese learners, starting from the very basics. This approach helps children gradually catch up with their school curriculum. eChineseLearning’s online Mandarin courses offer teachers who can guide your child from the ground up, targeting weak spots and providing comprehensive support to help them improve their Mandarin skills.
3. Make Use of Mandarin Media Resources
Parents can take advantage of Chinese learning resources from Mainland China, such as bilingual subtitle videos or beginner-level Mandarin lessons. For example, they can encourage their children to watch children’s programs on CCTV, listen to Mandarin radio broadcasts, or read bilingual children’s books. However, it’s essential that the child has a solid grasp of Pinyin first. These resources can enhance their listening comprehension, help them build vocabulary, and improve their overall language intuition. Immersing them in Mandarin content is key to making progress.
4. Think about Exploring International Schools as An Option
If feasible, parents might consider enrolling their children in international schools in Hong Kong. These schools often offer Chinese language programs that are well-suited to the needs of non-Chinese students, with curriculum and teaching pace tailored accordingly. They typically use both Mandarin and English as the mediums of instruction, providing a more immersive environment where children can regularly engage with and practice Mandarin in their daily studies.
If you are interested in having your kid learn Chinese, sign up for a free trial class via the form on this page, and we will be happy to help.