Learning Chinese in Calgary

As one of Canada's most multicultural cities, Calgary offers a wide range of opportunities to learn Chinese. From accredited schools to university programs and cultural centers, everyone can find the best way to master Mandarin and get to know the rich Chinese culture.

Main learning centers and schools

The Chinese Academy (TCA)

  • Description: The largest language school in Calgary, combining language instruction with cultural programs. Offers courses for children and adults, including classes in calligraphy, traditional arts, and wellness.
  • Programs:
    • Children's courses (from 3 years old) with interactive games and songs.
  • Adult groups with a focus on conversation practice and business etiquette.
  • Preparation for HSK international exams.

Calgary Mandarin School

  • Description: An Alberta Education-accredited school where students can earn high school credits.
  • **Features:
  • Programs for children (ages 3+) and adults.
    • Chinese Language and Culture 10-3Y, 20-3Y, 30-3Y courses that meet the state curriculum.
  • Cultural events: Chinese New Year celebrations, public speaking competitions, literary contests.

University of Calgary Continuing Education

  • Courses:
  • MAN 101 – Mandarin 1: Basic course for beginners. Students learn how to introduce themselves, count, discuss family, and give dates. Cost: from $450.
    • MAN 102/103: Continuation for those who have mastered the basic level. Emphasis on expanding vocabulary and grammar.

University programs

Mount Royal University (MRU)

  • Courses:
    • Chinese Language: Focuses on modern standard Chinese (Mandarin). Includes training in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
  • Chinese Civilization: A historical overview of philosophy, art, science, and contemporary social trends.

University of Calgary

  • HSK Testing Centre: The only official center in Calgary for taking the international Chinese language exam. Cost: from $32.50 (HSK 1) to $120 (HSK 6).
  • Cultural Resources: A library with a collection of books, films, and audio materials for self-study.

Cultural Centers and Additional Opportunities

Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre

  • Activities:
  • Free courses on jade and calligraphy for high school students.
    • Language programs for immigrants.
  • Museum with an exhibition of traditional art and historical artifacts.

Language clubs and meetings

  • Calgary Language Lovers Meetup: Informal meetings to practice Mandarin and exchange cultural experiences.
  • Online communities: Social media groups for discussing learning materials and finding language partners.

Online resources and apps

  • Platforms:
  • HelloChinese, HSK Hero – interactive apps for learning characters and grammar.
    • FluentU – video lessons with subtitles and exercises.
  • Textbooks:
  • Specialized guides for HSK preparation, available at the University of Calgary library.

Tips for effective learning

  1. Set a goal: Clearly define whether you need the language for your career, travel, or communicating with relatives.
  2. Use the language every day: Even 15 minutes of watching Chinese videos on YouTube or listening to podcasts will yield results.
  3. Find a native speaker to practice with: For example, through Language Trainers Canada, which offers one-on-one lessons with native speakers.
  4. Study in groups: Group learning at schools like TCA helps overcome the language barrier through role-playing.

Conclusion

Learning Chinese in Calgary is not just about mastering a new language, but also about immersing yourself in a thousand-year-old culture. With a variety of programs ranging from schools for young children to university courses, there is something for everyone. Cultural events, language clubs, and modern online tools make the learning process fun and effective. Remember, consistency and practice are the keys to success!