The Pimsleur Chinese Mandarin Basic Course Level 1: Lessons 1-10 CD is specifically designed for individuals who are new to learning Mandarin Chinese. It offers a convenient way to learn the basics of the language, with 10 audio lessons that are each 30 minutes long, making it ideal for those with busy schedules.

One of the key strengths of this program is its focus on spoken language. The Pimsleur method places a strong emphasis on pronunciation and conversational skills, allowing learners to quickly develop their ability to communicate in Mandarin. Reviewers appreciate the gradual and systematic approach employed by the course, which allows them to build upon previous lessons and reinforce their understanding of the material.

Authenticity is important when learning a new language, and the Pimsleur Chinese Mandarin Basic Course delivers on this aspect. Native Mandarin speakers are used in the audio lessons, providing learners with an immersive language experience. This enables them to develop an accurate accent and improve their listening comprehension.

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The course also includes clear and concise explanations and instructions, which make it easy for learners to follow along. This allows them to quickly grasp the basics of the language and become comfortable with pronunciation.

One of the standout features of this course is its interactive nature. Listeners are encouraged to actively participate in conversations, responding to prompts and engaging in dialogue. This helps to improve their speaking skills and builds their confidence in using the language.

What are readers saying?

The book "Pimsleur Chinese (Mandarin) Basic Course - Level 1 Lessons 1-10 CD" by Pimsleur Language Programs has received a range of reviews from readers. The effectiveness and usefulness of this language learning resource have divided users' opinions.

Some reviewers highly praised the Pimsleur method, stating that it is an excellent tool for learning Mandarin. They appreciated the emphasis on listening and speaking skills, which greatly improved their pronunciation. Many found the repetition exercises to be valuable and credited them with enhancing their language abilities. These positive comments highlight the strength of the Pimsleur course in terms of its audio component.

However, there were also disappointments with the book expressed by others who felt that it lacked sufficient content and vocabulary. Some reviewers felt that the lessons were too basic and lacked depth. They wished for more cultural context and practical phrases that reflect real-life situations. Despite positive remarks about the audio component, a number of reviewers expressed frustration over the lack of written material to supplement their learning.

A few readers also remarked on the high price point of the course, which may have influenced their overall satisfaction. Many reviewers mentioned the availability of more cost-effective language learning resources that offer a wider range of content and additional resources.

In summary, opinions on the "Pimsleur Chinese (Mandarin) Basic Course - Level 1 Lessons 1-10 CD" vary among users. While some praised the audio-focused approach and repetition exercises for improving their pronunciation and speaking skills, others criticized the book for its limited content and lack of cultural context. Concerns about the course's price were also mentioned. It is advisable to carefully consider individual language learning needs and preferences before investing in this resource.

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