When I was learning Chinese intensively I worked with a teacher daily.

We did at least one hour of 1-1 learning each day. I developed an approach which worked for me. It was really useful when I was an intermediate learner.

These 5 ways were most effective at getting the most out of working with a teacher for me:

1. Drive the content and pace. You need to dictate what you learn, and how fast you learn it. Focus on things that interest you, and stuff that happens in real life you can use.

2. Avoid using text books. I'm not a fan of using text books. They're ok in group settings. Build your own content by keeping printed notes of what you learn. It also makes for more natural conversations.

3. Focus on tones and pronunciation. Chose sentences you're struggling with. Practice with your teacher, asking them to be militant with correcting your tones. Keep practicing ideally with a printed copy of the sentences.

4. Ask about synonyms, confusing words and antonyms. When you learn a new word, ask your teacher about similar words, opposites, and learn differences. This helps remember on a deeper level.

5. Explain things in Chinese. If you don't understand a concept (like grammar, or a confusing idiom) ask your teacher to explain it in Chinese and give more examples. You can also try to use Chinese to explain it too.

There are lots of ways to work with a Chinese teacher.

These 5 ways worked best for me.

What works best for you?