Why learn Mandarin Chinese?

As learners in the 21st Century, learning Mandarin Chinese strengthens students become “global citizens” and prepares them for college and career readiness. Mandarin Chinese is the most widely-spoken language in the world. One out of five people speak Chinese. Learning Mandarin Chinese allows students to communicate with millions of people around the world, either for traveling, business or studying.

Teaching goal:

Because of individual and cultural differences in students, I always believed that each child can learn and learn well if the teacher uses  methods appropriate for their individual needs. I believe that teaching lays the emphasis on developing the students’ abilities and skills instead of cramming knowledge only. Students should be active participants instead of the passive receivers. I think the best teaching method create an equal and mutual relationship between the students and the teacher. To encourage the students to learn efficiently, cooperatively and think creatively, in my classroom, the students are the real participants.

Therefore, the main goal of my teaching is to teach using interactive student-centered methods in order to build life-long learning skills for students, as well as critical thinking and problem solving skills, understanding, communicating and collaborating in culturally appropriate ways in a global community. 

Technology for Project-Based Learning:

In my teaching practice, I leverage various educational technologies to foster project-based learning experiences that resonate with students' lives and facilitate the achievement of their learning objectives. These projects are designed to cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students, preparing them for real-world challenges.

Embracing Cooperative Learning:

Recognizing the diversity of perspectives within a classroom, I employ cooperative learning methodologies to nurture students' abilities in effective communication and collaboration. Through group projects, discussions, and cooperative learning activities, students learn from each other's viewpoints, enhancing their understanding of the subject matter while honing interpersonal skills essential for success in diverse environments.

Integrating Cultural Elements into Language Education:

In addition to teaching Chinese language skills, I infuse cultural elements into daily lessons to deepen students' understanding of Chinese culture, literature, and history. By incorporating activities such as teaching Chinese idioms, exploring cultural comparisons, practicing calligraphy and painting, assigning Chinese film analyses, and experiencing the intricacies of the Chinese tea ceremony, students develop not only linguistic proficiency but also cultural fluency. Weekly cultural projects, Spring Festival performances, and International Food Day celebrations further enrich students' cultural experiences and foster a deeper appreciation for global perspectives.