This research is a mixed-methods study that examined Chinese learners' beliefs and strategies used in language learning in the context of their achieved proficiency. To investigate the relationship existing between these variables, two survey questionnaires, a Chinese proficiency test (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi: HSK 4), and an interview item were constructed. In total, one hundred and twenty international students were conveniently sampled for the BALLI and SILL questionnaires, as well as a Proficiency Test, and six out of the one hundred and twenty were selected to respond to the interview. The results revealed that learning beliefs about learning and communication strategies and metacognitive strategies in learning strategies were frequently used among these participants. The study also showed that a strong positive correlation exists between learning beliefs and the strategies used, while a weak positive and statistically significant correlation exists between their Chinese proficiency, learning beliefs about the language, and the strategies used. However, the regression analysis conducted showed that the regression model is statistically significant (F=70.63, p<0.05), indicating that the beliefs and strategies used have the potential to statistically predict their learning proficiency. The study concluded with suggestions on how to address negative learning beliefs and build adequate learning strategies to improve their Chinese proficiency.

Language is essential not only in maintaining interpersonal relationships but also in achieving other social or political goals. In politics, the language is a tool creatively used by politicians to brainwash, manipulate, encourage and persuade their citizens or masses to do something. Strategic choice of language has made it easier for politicians to influence citizens' emotional and mental perception with their political speeches and messages. Through the use of Verschureren’s Linguistic Adaptation Theory, this study analyses President Bush’s COVID-19 message to examine how it adapts to the three-communication context in correlation adaptability and how it influences the emotional and mental perception of the US citizens in abiding with the stipulated health regulations and fostering unity and solidarity. The findings of the study show that, through the strategic choice of language use which adapts to the social, mental and physical world, the former American President Bush tends to persuade, encourage and inculcate the sense of unity and the American spirit in the American citizens to remain calm by following the health regulations.