But there are words, then there are idioms, and there are sentence patterns... if you can afford it, the Pimsleur series is unsurpassed for mastering a series of basic sentence patterns.
The John Francis books are useful orientation. If you're studying, the New Practical Chinese Reader series is extensive and helpful.
Access to the official vocabulary classifications is through the HSK program: http://www.china.org.cn/english/MATERIAL/105441.htm
But there are words, then there are idioms, and there are sentence patterns... if you can afford it, the Pimsleur series is unsurpassed for mastering a series of basic sentence patterns.
The John Francis books are useful orientation. If you're studying, the New Practical Chinese Reader series is extensive and helpful.