Here are a few basic terms, keep in mind that pronunciation is vital. Many words are spelled the same way and may sound the same way but mean completely different things

Hello – nǐhǎo (knee how)
My name is – wǒ jiào (wah jiaow)
Thank you – xièxiè (Shi-e Shi-e)
Wonderful – tai hao le (thai hao lah)
China – Zhōngguó (Joong gwah)
America – Měiguó (May gwah)