Do you ever wonder why language learning materials are filled with dialogues? In this episode, John and Jared discuss the benefits of dialogues in language learning, such as authentic spoken language, contextual learning, and natural listening comprehension material including possible drawbacks such as outdated or contrived content. Guest interview is with Bohan Phoenix, a Chinese-American hip hop artist who adds a unique perspective on bridging cultures through music. Bohan shares his experiences growing up in China and the United States, pursuing music, and incorporating his Chinese culture into his work.
Links from the episode:
- Bohan Phoenix
- The Monkey’s Paw | Mandarin Companion Level 1 graded reader
- Language learning has nothing to do with smarts | TED Radio Hour
The usefulness of dialogues [00:02:05]
John and Jared discuss the benefits of dialogues in language learning, such as providing authentic spoken language, contextual learning, natural listening comprehension material, speaking practice, vocabulary expansion, and grammar learning.
Potential drawbacks of dialogues [00:07:41]
John and Jared mention the potential drawbacks of dialogues, such as outdated or contrived content and cramming too much vocabulary or grammar into a single dialogue.
Expanding vocabulary and learning grammar [00:08:29]
John and Jared explain how dialogues can help learners expand their vocabulary and learn grammar in a natural context.
Benefits of Dialogues [00:10:08-00:12:08]
Dialogues provide authentic spoken language, contextual learning, natural listening comprehension material, speaking practice, vocabulary expansion, grammar learning, cultural insight, and engagement.
Using Dialogues in Stories [00:13:12-00:13:55]
Dialogues can be used in stories to break up longer paragraphs of text, provide a break for the reader, and keep the story interesting.
Shared Bikes in Shanghai [00:19:04-00:19:40]
Shared bikes are here to stay in Shanghai, with the blue Hello bikes and yellow Made Twin bikes being the most popular. They are super convenient and can be unlocked with both Alipay and WeChat apps.
Mobike Memories [00:20:21]
Jared and John reminisce about the evolution of bike-sharing services in China.
Enjoying Language Learning [00:22:22]
Jared discusses an article about the importance of enjoying language learning and how it can lead to success.
Bohan Phoenix Interview [00:24:20]
An interview with Bohan Phoenix, a bilingual and bicultural hip hop artist, about his humble beginnings in China and his journey to becoming a successful musician in the US.
Moving to the US [00:30:43]
Bohan Phoenix talks about his move to the US from China at 11 years old, his struggles with culture shock, and his experiences in school.
Rap music and confidence [00:37:44]
Bohan Phoenix discusses how he discovered rap music and how it helped him gain confidence and find his identity in a new country.
Supportive mother [00:39:42]
Bohan Phoenix talks about his mother’s supportive attitude towards his exploration of music and identity, and how it helped him gain confidence.
Bohan’s music journey [00:40:42]
Bohan Phoenix talks about his journey into music, from leaving voicemails with raps to performing in high school and eventually pursuing music full-time.
Embracing two cultures [00:44:06]
Bohan discusses his journey of embracing his Chinese culture and incorporating it into his music, as well as his experiences of being a “perpetual foreigner” in America.
Approach to bilingual songwriting [00:47:53]
Bohan talks about his approach to mixing English and Chinese in his music, from starting with just a few lines to experimenting with different rhythms and eventually dialing it back to convey his ideas more effectively.
Cross-Cultural Misunderstandings [00:50:42]
Bohan Phoenix shares his experiences with cross-cultural misunderstandings between China and the US.
Personal Relationships in Music [00:56:25]
Bohan Phoenix talks about how his personal relationships, particularly with his mother, influence his music.
Teaching English through Chinese Sonics [00:59:38]
Bohan Phoenix shares his experience teaching English to his bandmates in China by writing Chinese sonics next to English words.
