As the second graders continued their virtual travels to the continent of Asia, students participated in many activities and experiences that fostered higher-level thinking, project-based learning, and an appreciation for the many contributions from Chinese culture and history.
Chinese Zodiac
How are you like your zodiac animal?
After discussing the Chinese calendar and zodiac, students determined their zodiac animals based on their birth year. They then compared the characteristics of their zodiac animals to their own personalities.
TangramsÂ
Can you create animal shapes using all 7 tans?
After reading Grandfather Tang’s Story, second graders used Tangram puzzles as well as their knowledge of geometry to create animal shapes of their own.
Parent Visitor
We can learn a lot from our fabulous parents!
Carl’s mom, Ede, visited our classroom to speak about the special customs and traditions of Taiwan. She shared clothing, calligraphy scrolls, red envelopes, and mochi with the class and presented each child with a special Chinese lantern.
 
The Great Wall of China
Project-based learning at its finest!
Over the course of several days, after reading and researching about the Great Wall of China, each student created his/her own model of the Great Wall. The individual pieces were connected together and put on display for parents and other students to view.
 
Chinese School Guest Speaker
Thank you, Mrs. Shao!
The principal of the Santa Barbara Chinese School, Mrs. Shao, made a special visit to our classroom. The class was captivated as she spoke and engaged the class in games about the culture and history of China as well as the significance of Chinese New Year celebrations.
Dragon Dance and Parade
Fun with music, art, and movement!
Under the direction of our incredible Art teacher, Mrs. Guay, the class painted a beautiful dragon “body” for our New Year’s Parade. Our music teacher, the marvelous Ms. Markstrum, taught the class a traditional Chinese New Year song and dance, complete with instruments. The whole school emerged from their classrooms to celebrate with us as we danced and paraded around the lower school campus.
Calligraphy Instruction
Thank you, Ms. Renick
During a special art class, Laguna parent Ms. Renick, shared her knowledge and expertise of Chinese calligraphy with the class. Each student had an opportunity to try his/her own hand at painting with unique stylistic techniques.
Chinese New Year Class Party
Gung Hay Fat Choy!
Students chose from a variety of activities such as making paper lanterns, practicing using chopsticks, tracing Chinese art patterns, and creating calligraphy scrolls. At the conclusion, room parents served delicious Chinese food and fortune cookies. Yummy!
 
 
