Common English Mistakes in Educational Handouts by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Mandarin Chinese speakers from Taiwan when writing a Educational Handout in English.

Mistake Example #1

Misuse of singular/plural nouns ('There are much people here' instead of 'There are many people here')

Welcome to the English Writing Workshop! In this session, we will explore how to improve your essay writing skills. There isare many ways to start an essay, but it is important to have a strong introduction. When you write, remember that there isare different types of essays, such as narrative and argumentative. Each type requires a different approach, so it is helpful to practice often.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"Watch out for subject-verb agreement and the proper use of singular and plural forms. "

Welcome to the English Writing Workshop! In this session, we will explore how to improve your essay writing skills. There are many ways to start an essay, but it is important to have a strong introduction. When you write, remember that there are different types of essays, such as narrative and argumentative. Each type requires a different approach, so it is helpful to practice often.

Welcome to the English Writing Workshop! In this session, we will explore how to improve your essay writing skills. There is many ways to start an essay, but it is important to have a strong introduction. When you write, remember that there is different types of essays, such as narrative and argumentative. Each type require different approach, so it is helpful to practice often.

Mistake Example #2

Using overly formal or direct language

Dear Students, It is impeortantive thao diligentlyou must complete your homework assignmentswith utmost diligence. Failure to do so will rhavesult in severeious consequences, and you are strongly advised to adhere tfollow the instructions provided. Please ensure that all tasks are submitted by the deadlinewithout exception.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to reduce overly formal language."

Dear Students, It is important to diligently complete your homework assignments. Failure to do so will have serious consequences, and you are strongly advised to follow the instructions provided. Please ensure that all tasks are submitted by the deadline.

Dear Students, It is imperative that you must complete your homework assignments with utmost diligence. Failure to do so will result in severe consequences, and you are strongly advised to adhere to the instructions provided. Please ensure that all tasks are submitted by the deadline without exception.

Mistake Example #3

Omitting the subject in sentences ('Is important to learn English' instead of 'It is important to learn English')

Learning English can be challenging, but it is important to practice every day. HIt helps to listen to English music and watch movies with subtitles. Also, joining a language exchange group is beneficial for improving speaking skills.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to replace missing sentence subjects."

Learning English can be challenging, but it is important to practice every day. It helps to listen to English music and watch movies with subtitles. Also, joining a language exchange group is beneficial for improving speaking skills.

Learning English can be challenging, but is important to practice every day. Helps to listen to English music and watch movies with subtitles. Also, joining a language exchange group is beneficial for improving speaking skills.