Brainstorm readers may remember that Caitríona Osborne recently pointed out the unique features of the Chinese writing system which have led it to be considered difficult to learn. One aspect of ...

Most of the world’s languages are written alphabetically; in an alphabetic writing system the basic components represent sounds only without any reference to meaning. For example, the letter “b” in ...

Speak excellent Chinese with accurate pronunciation and tones, OK if in slightly lower than natural speed. Understand basic grammar rules. Be able to engage in communications on topics taught in the ...