Mastery of Mandarin Tone Sandhi by UiTM Introductory Mandarin Learners

Abstract

Tone is a distinct Chinese feature that is both difficult and important in Mandarin, with Tone Sandhi being the most difficult. Mastering tone sandhi is synonymous with mastering Mandarin. Knowing the learning situation among students is essential for assisting them in mastering the language more effectively. The purpose of this quantitative study is to investigate the tone sandhi mastery situation among Mandarin learners at UiTM, with the hope of improving the quality and effectiveness of Mandarin teaching and learning by implementing appropriate teaching methods. 49 Mandarin students from 3 different levels of Introductory Mandarin courses in UiTM participated in this quantitative tone sandhi study. A structured questionnaire involved demographic sections, theoretical sections, and reading recording section was distributed. The data revealed that students' theoretical knowledge is adequate, but their ability in practical pronunciation needs to be improved. Several teaching methods were listed, with the hope that they will aid in the teacher's teaching and, in turn, improve students' tone sandhi pronunciation ability.