When you a learn language that uses a writing system that is different from your own, do you first learn how to read/write and how to pronounce it? Or do you dive right in and start learning to speak from day 1? Me personally. I know what it's like to start a language having no idea about pronunciation. I ended up changing my approach and starting new languages with a priority on pronunciation and reading. It may have slowed me down a bit but it really helped me accelerate later. But I also have found it is not always possible to start learning the writing system for a language like Cantonese. So in this case I find I am just diving in and learning to speak. Of course my experience with different languages has helped me with the pronunciation but I feel like I am at a disadvantage not being able to read much. I know if my romanized notes are that helpful. I would love to hear about your opinions and experience. I have met so many great teachers and experienced many different approaches to teaching but I only have my own experience to reflect on. I want to know about yours. Maybe we can learn something from one another.