That Mandarin Class part 1

It's been 7 meetings of Mandarin class so far and I am enjoying every minute of it. Though I have had some lessons of the language from a colleague a long long time ago, the first session was like a new start. Compared to the way I learned previously, this one is focusing more on the basic knowledge of the language starting from the correct pronunciation of the pinyin to the appropriate intonation.

The intonation thing and the pinyin are easier for me to handle. During my previous learning, I have had songs, lyrics, movies (mostly from Taiwan with Indonesia subtitles). As far as I know, listening activities can function as inputs and so by having heard some phrases before, I learn easily.

Learning something new has become a challenge since ten years ago. I am not as bright as before. My way of retaining is a bit different now. I used to only listen and that's it. Now, I have to do a whole lot more to make sure what I have comprehend does stay here (pointing at my right temple. not my right knee. :-))) ). So whenever there is a quiz going on, I have to at least read and practice once just to make sure I get by OK. What a struggle indeed.