Year 9

Year 9 Students Celebrate Language and Culture Week 

Article by Weiwei Zhang, Teacher of Languages - Mandarin

As part of Language and Culture Week, Year 9 students participated in a variety of engaging cultural activities that brought the languages they study to life. 

Advanced Mandarin students celebrated Chinese culture through a range of hands-on experiences. They learned how to make zòng zi (sticky rice dumplings), a traditional food associated with the Dragon Boat Festival. Students also enjoyed playing jiànzi (Chinese shuttlecock kicking), a popular traditional game that challenged their coordination and teamwork. Another highlight was participating in a colourful ribbon dragon dance, where students worked together to recreate the flowing movements of a dragon, an important symbol in Chinese culture. 

General Mandarin students explored Chinese culture through film by watching Mulan. The movie introduced students to themes of courage, family, loyalty and perseverance, while also offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese values and customs. They also had the opportunity to learn and play jiànzi, adding a fun and active element to their cultural studies. 

Meanwhile, German students watched excerpts from Almanya, a film that explores German culture, identity and migration. To complete the experience, students enjoyed tasting traditional German pretzels. 

These activities provided meaningful opportunities for students to experience the cultures behind the languages they study, making Language and Culture Week both educational and memorable. 

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