MANDARIN News...

Mandarin – Term 2 Highlights

Term 2 has been another exciting and engaging term of learning in Mandarin, with students developing their language skills while exploring Chinese culture and traditions.

Our Foundation to Year 2 students focused on learning Chinese numbers, the days of the week, the twelve months of the year, and telling time in hours. Through songs, games, crafts, and interactive activities, students built confidence in using these important everyday language skills.

Students in the Middles learned how to introduce themselves in Mandarin. They practised saying their name, age, year level, likes and interests, and talking about things they have. Students enjoyed using these new language structures in conversations and classroom speaking activities.

Our senior students extended their classroom language by learning how to ask for permission in Mandarin. They practised useful phrases such as asking to have a drink of water or requesting to go to the toilet, helping them use Mandarin more authentically in everyday classroom situations. They also explored one of China’s most famous landmarks, the Great Wall of China, learning about its history, purpose, and significance.

Across the school, students celebrated the Dragon Boat Festival by learning about its origins and traditions. Seniors enjoyed making and tasting zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), gaining a deeper understanding of this important cultural celebration.

During National Reconciliation Week, students explored the importance of respect, belonging, and cultural diversity. They learned how to say “hello” in different languages, including local Aboriginal languages, and discovered how the concept of harmony is expressed in Chinese culture. Students also created beautiful origami crafts for Mother’s Day, combining creativity with cultural learning.

It has been wonderful to see students embracing new language, developing intercultural understanding, and making connections between Chinese culture and our diverse school community. We look forward to continuing our Mandarin learning journey in Term 3!