Learning Chinese can seem like a daunting task, especially for English speakers. However, there is a wealth of free resources available that can make the process more manageable and even enjoyable. This article will guide you through some of the best free Chinese learning materials out there, from online courses to mobile apps, and everything in between.
Online Courses and Tutorials
Coursera
Coursera offers a variety of Chinese courses from prestigious universities such as Peking University and National Taiwan University. Although some courses require payment for certification, you can audit most courses for free. These courses often include video lectures, reading materials, and quizzes to test your understanding.
edX
Similar to Coursera, edX provides free Chinese courses from top universities. You can find courses that cover basic Mandarin, Chinese culture, and even specialized topics like business Chinese. Like Coursera, you can audit courses for free, although certification will cost extra.
ChinesePod
ChinesePod offers a substantial amount of free content, including over 1000 audio and video lessons that range from beginner to advanced levels. The platform focuses on conversational Chinese, making it a great choice if you want to improve your speaking and listening skills. While a subscription is available for additional features, the free content is comprehensive enough to provide a solid foundation.
Mobile Apps
Duolingo
Duolingo is a popular language-learning app that offers a free Chinese course. The app uses a gamified approach to teaching, making it engaging and fun. Lessons are bite-sized and cover various aspects of the language, including vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The app also offers daily challenges to keep you motivated.
Memrise
Memrise is another excellent app for learning Chinese. It uses spaced repetition to help you remember vocabulary and phrases. The app also includes native speaker videos to improve your listening skills. Memrise has a free tier that provides access to a significant amount of content, although a premium version is available for additional features.
HelloChinese
HelloChinese is specifically designed for Mandarin learners. The app offers a range of interactive lessons that cover speaking, reading, writing, and listening. It also includes speech recognition technology to help you with pronunciation. The basic version of the app is free, but there are in-app purchases available for advanced features.
Websites and Blogs
Chinese Grammar Wiki
The Chinese Grammar Wiki is an invaluable resource for understanding Chinese grammar. Created by the team behind AllSet Learning, this website offers detailed explanations of grammatical points for all levels of learners. The content is well-organized and easy to navigate, making it an excellent reference tool.
Hacking Chinese
Hacking Chinese is a blog by Olle Linge, a Swedish teacher who specializes in Chinese. The blog offers a wealth of articles on various aspects of learning Chinese, from vocabulary acquisition to improving your speaking skills. The site also features guest posts from other experts and learners, providing a diverse range of perspectives and tips.
DigMandarin
DigMandarin is a comprehensive website that offers free resources for learning Chinese. The site includes articles, videos, and tutorials on various topics, including grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. There is also a community forum where you can ask questions and interact with other learners.
Podcasts and Audio Lessons
ChineseClass101
ChineseClass101 offers a range of free audio and video lessons for learners of all levels. The lessons are designed to be engaging and cover a wide range of topics, from everyday conversation to cultural insights. While there is a premium subscription available, the free content is more than enough to get you started.
Slow Chinese
Slow Chinese is a podcast that features news and stories read at a slower pace, making it easier for learners to follow along. Each episode includes a transcript, which is incredibly helpful for improving your reading and listening skills. The podcast covers a variety of topics, providing a well-rounded listening experience.
Mandarin Monkey
Mandarin Monkey offers a mix of free and premium content, including podcasts, YouTube videos, and blog posts. The focus is on practical, conversational Chinese, and the hosts often discuss current events and everyday topics. The free content is substantial and provides a great way to immerse yourself in the language.
Video Resources
Yoyo Chinese
Yoyo Chinese is a popular YouTube channel that offers free video lessons on various aspects of the Chinese language. The videos are well-produced and cover topics such as pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. The channel also features cultural insights and tips for effective learning.
Learn Chinese with Emma
This YouTube channel offers a range of free video lessons that are particularly useful for beginners. The videos cover basic vocabulary, phrases, and grammar points, and are presented in a clear and engaging manner. The channel also includes videos on Chinese culture and travel tips.
Mandarin Corner
Mandarin Corner offers free video lessons and interviews with native speakers. The videos cover a wide range of topics, from everyday conversation to specialized subjects like business and technology. The channel also provides subtitles in both Chinese and English, making it easier to follow along.
Flashcards and Vocabulary Builders
Anki
Anki is a flashcard app that uses spaced repetition to help you memorize vocabulary and phrases. The app is highly customizable, allowing you to create your own flashcards or download pre-made decks. There are many free Chinese decks available, covering everything from basic vocabulary to HSK exam preparation.
Quizlet
Quizlet is another flashcard app that offers a range of free Chinese vocabulary sets. The app includes various study modes, such as matching games and practice tests, to make learning more engaging. You can also create your own flashcards or use sets created by other users.
HSK Vocabulary Lists
If you’re preparing for the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) exams, there are many free resources available that provide vocabulary lists for each level. These lists are essential for exam preparation and can be found on websites like HSK Online and Chinese-Tools.com.
Reading Materials
Mandarin Companion
Mandarin Companion offers a range of free graded readers for Chinese learners. These books are written using simplified vocabulary and grammar, making them accessible for beginners and intermediate learners. The stories are engaging and help to reinforce the language skills you’re developing.
The Chairman’s Bao
The Chairman’s Bao is a news-based learning platform that offers free articles in simplified Chinese. The articles are written at various difficulty levels, making it easy to find content that matches your proficiency. Each article includes a list of key vocabulary and phrases, along with translations and audio recordings.
Chinese Reading Practice
Chinese Reading Practice is a website that offers free reading materials for learners at all levels. The site includes short stories, articles, and dialogues, along with translations and vocabulary lists. The content is well-organized and covers a wide range of topics, making it a valuable resource for improving your reading skills.
Language Exchange and Community
Tandem
Tandem is a language exchange app that connects you with native Chinese speakers who want to learn English. The app allows you to chat via text, voice, or video, providing a great way to practice your speaking and listening skills. Tandem also includes built-in translation and correction features to help you learn more effectively.
Speaky
Speaky is another language exchange app that connects you with native Chinese speakers. The app includes various communication tools, such as text and voice messaging, to facilitate language practice. Speaky also has a community feature where you can join language groups and participate in discussions.
Reddit has several communities dedicated to learning Chinese, such as r/ChineseLanguage and r/Mandarin. These subreddits are great places to ask questions, share resources, and interact with other learners. The communities are active and supportive, providing a valuable network for language practice and advice.
Conclusion
Learning Chinese is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. With the plethora of free resources available, you can tailor your study plan to fit your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer online courses, mobile apps, podcasts, or language exchange, there is something out there for everyone. By taking advantage of these free materials, you can make significant progress in your Chinese learning journey without breaking the bank. So, get started today and immerse yourself in the rich and fascinating world of the Chinese language!