Spring Chinese Update

Dear Aidan Community,

ni hǎo ma

你好吗

How are you?

Dr. Montessori said, “The development of language is part of the development of the personality, for words are the natural means of expressing thoughts and establishing understanding between people.” With our return to in-person language learning, the students are able to do more interactive communication, which has certainly enhanced their understanding of the Chinese language and culture.

Our Lower Elementary students continue to absorb more words and phrases related to daily life, which enhances their Chinese language learning. Recently, we learned names of vegetables and fruits. To practice our newly acquired vocabulary, students enjoyed role play related to the purchase and sale of items in the supermarket and outdoor food markets. They practice making their own food. and were able to bargain, recognize different kinds of vegetables, and appreciate different ways of cooking all while having a great time.

Our Upper Elementary students are learning to appreciate ancient Chinese scroll paintings. Through observation and discussion of the scenes and people in the painting, students are able to gain a better understanding of life in ancient China. Study of the scrolls also helps situate the students’ historical perspective while allowing them to be a part of the history through their discussion, collection and creation of the poems and scrolls of their own. 

Learning a new language is not solely about the language itself. It also involves learning about the traditions, the life, the culture, the food, and the sense of beauty that surround the language. This is how we better understand the people and the world around us and this is how we explore the Chinese language at Aidan.

Sincerely,

Xixi Chen

Chinese Teacher