USING CLASS TIME TO YOUR BEST ADVANTAGE
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It cannot be over emphasized that the key to getting the most out of class time is to be thoroughly prepared--not only by being familiar with the content of the lesson but by having any questions prepared beforehand.
As a group, try to work out a pace with your teacher which is neither too fast nor too slow. If you have tutorials with your teacher and are properly prepared, it may help if you suggest to your teacher where you would like to be by the end of the lesson. If there is something you would like to particularly work on (e.g. a difficult grammar pattern or sound), ask your teacher if you could spend extra time on it after class (and remember to show your appreciation!). Keep the classroom atmosphere as congenial as possible. Learn to laugh at yourself. And don't forget to thank your teacher for correcting you.
Throw yourself into the activities and imagine yourself communicating in real-life situations. Try to think in the language right from the start.
Note each teacher's strong points and build on them, i.e. save your questions on grammar for the teacher who can explain it more clearly; get the teacher who is sharp on pronunciation to keep a close watch on your sounds; and the one good on correcting tones to work with you on them, possibly after class.
Have a pronunciation 'check-up' once a month: ask a teacher to note down all your regular pronunciation and tonal problems and then work on them one at a time. Make beauty your aim!
Try to be as creative as possible. Experiment with grammar rules and vocabulary. Don't just use the sentences in your textbook--try using words in new contexts. When going over the vocabulary in class, you may find it helpful to see if the word usage is the same in English as in Chinese (e.g. the Chinese word for 'dormitory' has a wider meaning in Chinese than in English). Experiment by making sentences using the word in a particular context and see if it is acceptable. In order not to frustrate the other students in your class, some of this should best be done in your tutorial class!
