國語沉浸式：中國節慶與文化傳統 - 中級

Discover the magic and traditions of Chinese festivals! In this interactive cultural immersion class for learners ages 9-12, students will explore the history, customs, and modern-day celebrations of traditional Chinese festivals. Each month, we’ll deep dive into a different festival, learning about its origins through stories, crafts, songs, and cultural activities. From Lunar New Year to the Mid-Autumn Festival, learners will connect with the rich traditions of Chinese culture in a meaningful way, while practicing Mandarin vocabulary related to each celebration.

This class is perfect for learners who have an interest in exploring world cultures, enjoy hands-on projects, and want to deepen their understanding of Chinese customs. The class will be taught entirely in Mandarin, immersing learners in the language through stories, crafts, and cultural discussions to build confidence in listening, speaking, and understanding Mandarin.

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What Will Be Taught?

Learners will explore one festival each month across four weekly sessions, allowing them to dive deep into each festival's historical origins, modern-day significance, and key cultural practices. The class will include:

- Lunar New Year (春节 Chūnjié): Learn about the most important Chinese holiday, its traditions, zodiac animals, and lucky foods. Create a red envelope (红包 hóngbāo) craft and practice festive greetings.
- Lantern Festival (元宵节 Yuánxiāojié): Discover the story behind the Lantern Festival and its connection to family reunions. Make a paper lantern craft and learn the phrase “看灯笼” Kàn dēnglóng (Look at the lanterns).
- Dragon Boat Festival (端午节 Duānwǔjié): Explore the legend of Qu Yuan, dragon boat races, and the tradition of eating zongzi (粽子). Practice Mandarin phrases such as “赛龙舟” Sài lóngzhōu (Dragon boat racing).
- Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节 Zhōngqiūjié): Hear the story of Chang’e and the Moon, make a mooncake paper craft, and practice the phrase “赏月” Shǎng yuè (Appreciate the moon).
- Qingming Festival (清明节 Qīngmíngjié): Learn about ancestor worship and traditional customs like tomb sweeping. Discuss the importance of honoring family and traditions.
- Double Ninth Festival (重阳节 Chóngyángjié): Discover the traditions of climbing mountains, drinking chrysanthemum tea, and honoring elders.

Each unit will include:

- Festival History: Discuss the origins and cultural significance of each festival.
- Mandarin Vocabulary: Learn key phrases related to the festival.
- Craft or Cultural Activity: Create a craft, sing a traditional song, or engage in a hands-on project related to the celebration.
- Discussion: Reflect on how the festival is celebrated today and compare it to other holidays around the world.

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How Is the Class Structured?

Each 40-minute session will follow this format:

- Welcome & Warm-Up (5 minutes): Greet learners and introduce the festival of the month.
- Festival Story & History (10-15 minutes): Learn the story behind the festival and discuss its traditions.
- Interactive Activity (15-20 minutes): Participate in a craft, song, or cultural activity related to the festival.
- Wrap-Up & Mandarin Practice (5 minutes): Review key Mandarin phrases and discuss how learners can celebrate the festival at home.

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Language of Instruction

This class will be taught primarily in Mandarin, creating an immersive learning experience. Learners will hear stories, participate in activities, and practice Mandarin phrases throughout each session. English support will be provided when necessary to ensure comprehension, but learners are encouraged to use Mandarin as much as possible to build their language skills and confidence.

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Interactive Elements to Keep Learners Engaged

Our teachers create a supportive and interactive environment where learners can:

- Participate in discussions about Chinese festivals and customs
- Practice Mandarin phrases related to each festival
- Engage in hands-on crafts and activities that reinforce cultural themes
- Reflect on cultural comparisons between Chinese festivals and their own traditions

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Pre-Reqs

This is an intermediate-level Mandarin immersion class. Learners should already have a basic foundation in Mandarin, including:

- Recognizing and writing basic characters (e.g., numbers, family members, simple everyday words).
- Understanding and responding to simple questions in Mandarin.
- Following along with stories and instructions given primarily in Mandarin.

If your child has completed beginner-level Mandarin classes or can participate in basic conversations, they are ready for this class! Check out our beginner classes on our profile page!