Topic: news A Guide to Common Chinese Phrases in the ESL Classroom

Native speakers should also learn to empathize by thinking this way: "If I am learning Chinese for the first time and have few vocabulary to carry me through ordinary conversation, what will I do?" Vocabulary is the key so vocabulary building is a must so that the students will be able to use the necessary words to express themselves. If you know what they are saying in Chinese, say the English translation and let them repeat it and once they know the new words, that is the time to be strict about using English. You cannot forbid someone from using their native language if they do not know what to say in the target language. However, once you have taught what they should say, then they should apply those words for retention. Just remember to put yourself in their shoes and ask yourself is you really can function in the language you are learning if you don't even know how to say what you mean in the target language.