Languages

Mandarin Chinese Year 7 and 8 Program

It's been very exciting since the introduction of the Mandarin Chinese program for Year 7 and 8 students this year. The classes have been filled with engaging activities, cultural insights, and plenty of enthusiastic learners.

This term, students have been  introduced to the topics of basic greetings, self-introductions, and numbers. Our Chinese teachers have employed various interactive activities to ensure students grasp the new language concepts. For instance, students have participated in role-playing exercises where they practice introducing themselves and having simple conversations with their classmates.

An essential aspect of the program is the exploration of Chinese culture and its comparison with other cultures, including the students' own heritages. One fascinating activity involved students researching the meaning and origins of their names in their native languages and comparing them with the significance of names in Chinese culture.

Another engaging discussion centred around the importance of respect in Chinese culture, which gave students a chance to reflect on how respect is shown in their own cultures. Students shared their experiences and cultural norms, fostering a deeper understanding of diversity and global awareness among their peers.

Outside the classroom, students have been enthusiastically using their newfound language skills on the yard. They've been greeting their teachers and peers in Mandarin, demonstrating their excitement and progress in learning the language. Additionally, many students have taken the initiative to further their language learning by using language apps like Duolingo during their free time.

Overall, the Mandarin Chinese program has been an enriching and eye-opening experience for Year 7 and 8 students. It has not only provided them with valuable language skills but has also broadened their horizons by promoting an understanding of different cultures and fostering a greater appreciation for diversity. With continued enthusiasm and support, students are expected to make significant progress in their language abilities and cultural understanding in the coming months.

Chenfei Bian

Mandarin Chinese Teacher