Who says it's hard to learn Mandarin? Who says it can't be fun? Not Xinwen Chen, a thirty-something TCSOL-certified Mandarin Chinese teacher! Taking a functional approach to language acquisition, this collection of 50 three-minute chaptered lessons uses very simple scenarios based on everyday situations to immerse learners in the elements of practical conversation. "I define myself as a bridge between east and west!" says Xinwen. An engaging language-learning tool, and an enchanting glimpse of Chinese culture.

The lessons include:

FIRST SENTENCE
Hello! It's good to speak Chinese!
Good morning!
What is your name?
Do you speak English?
Where do you come from?
It's ok!
Let me through!
Can you do me a favor?

TRANSPORTATION
Take me to...
Excuse me! How can I get to
Is there a bus stop around here?
Which line of bus should I take?
When is the next bus coming?
I want to buy a ticket.
I want to rent a car.
Which road should I take?
Where is the nearest gas station?
How long does it take to walk there?
Can you take me there?

EATING AND SHOPPING
Have a meal together?
Menu, please!
What is your signature dish?
Cheers! Bottoms up!
I want to order a drink.
Check, please!
It's on me today!
Do you accept a credit card?
What is this?
How much is it?
Is there an ATM near here?
May I try this on?

TRAVELING
What time does this place open?
I have a reservation.
How long do you plan to stay?
What is the telephone number here?
What tour packages do you offer?
Can you help me to take a photo?
I would like to exchange my money for RMB.
When does the performance start?

CHATTING
May I speak to ...
Really?
I like ...
What do you think about ...
You are very beautiful!
From ... to ...
Are you free tonight?
Anybody home?
What time is it now?
What date is today?
How is the weather?

*Viewable/printable educational resources for each lesson are available online
(Portions in Chinese with English subtitles, 2 hours 30 minutes)