About the MP3 Files

Many people are downloading the PDF sample for “How to Use This Book.”

When I was writing the book, I had no idea that Windstone Press would offer MP3 recordings for each chapter (I don’t think they knew it either). For those who will have the recordings, this is a great benefit to studying.

At first, I thought it wouldn’t do much good. This is a reading book, after all. I only put the pinyin in the book for people who could already speak and read Mandarin so that they could use other dictionaries and compare definitions.  Looking back at my own education in Chinese language, I realize that recordings of the textbooks I was using were essential for both reading and speaking. Reading while listening to the sounds helps readers focus and use more of their brain. You will remember more by listening.

The recordings are basically set up as follows: each of the 15 chapters has its own file. Each chapter file starts with a reading of the Vocabulary, number by number. For the earlier chapters, each character is repeated twice (through Unit one I believe). After the Vocabulary section, the text is read. Each unit gets a little faster, but the rate is still good for beginners and not too boring for those who can speak Mandarin already.

I suggest using the recordings on the “second pass” through each section. In other words, study the Vocabulary as outline in the introduction first, then go through again with the recordings. When you finally approach the text, read them as outlined in the introduction first, then use the recordings.

When using the review pages (the first page of each chapter), you can use the recordings especially when you are having trouble remembering the text. This will certainly help your ability to memorize the texts.

All in all, I’m really happy they are offering these recordings. I think they will  be of great benefit to everyone using this book.