Language News

Mr Yeong Gwon - Head of Department Languages and International

Exciting Learning Experience for Year 9 Chinese Students at Sunnybank

In Week 10, the Year 9 Chinese students embarked on a fascinating excursion to Sunnybank, immersing themselves in an authentic cultural experience that enhanced their language skills and understanding of Chinese culture.

 

The day began with an engaging challenge: students were tasked with reading and identifying characters on banners and shop signs throughout the bustling shopping centre. This activity not only reinforced their grasp of Chinese characters but also gave them practical exposure to written Mandarin in a real-world setting.

 

Next, the students had the opportunity to conduct interviews with native Chinese speakers. Armed with the sentence structures and vocabulary they had been learning in class, the students confidently interacted with locals, practicing their language skills in meaningful conversations. 

 

The highlight of the excursion was undoubtedly the authentic Chinese food tasting experience at a local restaurant. From savory dumplings to aromatic stir-fries, students savoured traditional dishes while further immersing themselves in Chinese culinary delights. This experience not only tantalized their taste buds but also deepened their appreciation for Chinese cuisine and dining etiquette.

 

Throughout the excursion, students were encouraged to apply their language knowledge in practical scenarios, fostering confidence and fluency in speaking Mandarin. The excursion to Sunnybank served as a bridge between classroom learning and real-life application, enriching their cultural understanding and language proficiency in a dynamic and engaging manner.

 

Overall, the Year 9 Chinese excursion to Sunnybank was a resounding success, providing students with memorable experiences and valuable learning opportunities. It was a day filled with exploration, discovery, and the joy of learning about Chinese language and culture firsthand.

 

We look forward to more enriching excursions that bring learning to life and inspire our students to embrace multiculturalism and global perspectives.

Year 11 Chinese Dumpling Making

On the 13 June, our school's Year 11 Chinese students had a wonderful time making dumplings together. With enthusiasm and focus, these mature chefs prepared a variety of both chicken and vegetarian dumplings, showcasing their cooking skills and appreciation for diverse culinary traditions.

 

They handcrafted more than 200 savoury dumplings, each reflecting their dedication and respect for the art of dumpling making. We extend our gratitude to the Year 11 Chinese students for their valuable contributions to the success of the event and for their role in promoting an understanding of Chinese cuisine and culture. 

QLD Chinese Speech Competition

We are thrilled to share the outstanding achievements of our talented students who recently participated in the QLD Chinese Speech Competition organised and sponsored by Chinese Language Teachers’ Association of Queensland. Their dedication, hard work, and passion for the Chinese language were evident in their exceptional performances, and we couldn't be prouder of their accomplishments.

 

A special congratulations goes to our Year 10 student, Zac T, for securing the prestigious 1st Prize with a $100 gift card! Zac's speech, titled "My School" captivated the judges with its eloquence, depth, and powerful delivery. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Zac’s dedication to mastering the Chinese language and his ability to convey complex ideas with clarity and confidence. Zac has set a high standard for excellence and serves as an inspiration to all of us.

 

Our Year 11 student, Christabel B, won the Encouragement Prize with a $30 gift card! She demonstrated strong linguistic skills and thoughtful insights, highlighting Christabel’s potential and promising future in the realm of Chinese language and public speaking. 

Allegra H, our Year 8 student, who also showed her commitment and hard work in preparing and delivering a speech that was both engaging and informative. Her perseverance and courage were commendable and inspiring. 

 

The success of these students is a collective triumph for our school community. It underscores the importance of fostering a supportive and enriching environment where students can pursue their passions and achieve their goals. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the teachers, mentors, and parents who have played an integral role in guiding and supporting our students.