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Puxi Campus G4-5|Word Fair

March 31, 2025

On March 27, teachers and students in grades 4 and 5 of the Puxi Campus of Shanghai High School International Division once again welcomed the annual cultural feast - the World Fair. Centerd around the historical Silk Road, each fourth-grade class was transformed into a different country with historical significance to this renowned transport network. Yet each fifth-grade homeroom class was assigned a region, and students researched and presented a UNESCO World Heritage Site or an intangible cultural tradition from that area. Through a mix of informative and creative presentations, they deepened their understanding of global cultures while strengthening their geographic knowledge.





With their custom-made passports in hand, the fourth graders embarked on a journey through five countries, all historically significant to the Silk Road. They enjoyed discovering how impactful China’s past has been worldwide, and how much information was shared along the route. In fact, it was this last detail in particular that resonated most with the students: learning that China had the world’s first “World Wide Web.”


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In Turkey, the students performed a traditional Turkish dance, tried writing their names in Turkish, and then enjoyed a wide selection of Turkish delicacies. In Egypt, they made their own miniature Sphinx, deciphered hieroglyphic puzzles, and solved math equations using Arabic numbers. In India, they played chess, used looms to practice textile weaving, and wrote their names in Sanskrit. They also enjoyed food unique to the Indian subcontinent. While in Greece, the students first took part in a hands-on history lesson by creating their own pottery designs. Afterwards, they enjoyed the country’s unique cuisine. Finally, in Uzbekistan the students decorated teacups, studied traditional patterns on pottery and textile, before tucking into local delicacies.


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In each country, after learning about its contributions to the Silk Road, the students from grade four received a distinctive stamp in their passports to remember their experience and show where they had been.




For the fifth graders, the excitement began building the day before the fair, when students participated in a gallery walk during geography class. This interactive activity allowed them to explore each other’s projects, engage in discussions, and complete a brochure that encouraged them to analyze and reflect on the various presentations.


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On the day of the fair, classrooms were transformed into vibrant exhibition spaces, showcasing a diverse range of interactive presentations, including weaving workshops, traditional dance performances, pottery-making demonstrations, cultural storytelling, painting activities, and more. As students navigated through the exhibits, they answered questions in their "passports" related to different sites around the world. Their curiosity and enthusiasm were evident as they eagerly learned from their peers. To recognize outstanding work, teachers selected the best project from each homeroom, motivating students to put forth their best efforts in both research and presentation quality.





One of the most anticipated highlights of the fair was the culinary experience. Each group prepared and shared traditional foods from their assigned region, offering their classmates a taste of global flavors. Students received a food visa sticker in their passports as they sampled different dishes. Parent volunteers managed the food stations, ensuring a smooth and organized experience for all.


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In summary, this year’s World Fair provided an invaluable opportunity for students to showcase their creativity, teamwork, and research skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for global cultures. Through this collaborative project, they strengthened their communication abilities and developed greater independence in project management and planning.


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We extend our heartfelt thanks to the parent volunteers and all the teachers and staff whose dedication and support played a crucial role in making this event a success. Their involvement was instrumental in enriching our students’ learning experience, and we truly appreciate their contributions. Let us look forward to the next cultural journey together!


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Written by Vincent Wood-Katic, Jack Vincent, Cathy Cao, Teng Chen

Proofread by Judah Kuhn

Pictures/Videos by Minxuan Cao, Teachers, Parents Volunteers

Edited by Cong Luo

Reviewed by Luting Lu, Chenli Shen, Cong Luo