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Exploring the Beauty of Chinese – A Review of Second Semester's Chinese Department Activities

June 23, 2025

This semester, the Chinese Department teachers meticulously crafted a vibrant and colorful tapestry of learning experiences, continuing to utilize our dynamic House system as the foundation. The activities were diverse in form and rich in substance, encompassing deep explorations of classic Chinese literature, insightful examinations of contemporary cultural phenomena, and ample opportunities for student-led discovery.


Tracing the "Shanghai Literary Map": In this unique House-based activity, students embarked on a captivating urban literary journey. Using the metropolis of Shanghai – a fascinating blend of modernity and history – as their backdrop, they delved into Shanghai-style literature. Through the texts, they decoded the secrets of the city's transformation and felt the unique soul that literature imparts to a place.



Questioning AI in the Literary Age: Facing the wave of AI writing, the Chinese teachers hosted a thought-provoking lecture: "Can DeepSeek Truly Write an Excellent Novel?" Together, teachers and students explored the potential and boundaries of artificial intelligence in literary creation. They pondered the enduring value and resilience of human emotion, imagination, and the human spirit in the face of AI's impact, sparking deep reflection on the very essence of literature.



The Charm of the Dragon Boat Festival at Our Fingertips: As the traditional Dragon Boat Festival approached, students personally crafted auspicious festival bracelets. With vibrant threads winding around their fingers, they wove not only beautiful ornaments but also a deeper understanding and appreciation of ancient customs. This hands-on experience allowed them to savor the profound cultural heritage and the beautiful wishes for blessings and good fortune embedded within this traditional Chinese holiday.



Chinese teachers also hosted and organized numerous other engaging lectures and activities. While the most delightful aspect was the independent research projects undertaken by students within their Houses. One group, brimming with a boundless love for Chinese poetry, adopted the innovative method of creating "poetry collages." Like treasure hunters, they gathered luminous images and phrases from the vast ocean of Chinese verse. Through careful selection, cutting, combination, and reinterpretation, they breathed new life into classical poetry. This work, brimming with creativity and heartfelt dedication, ultimately captured the top honor in the highly anticipated campus-wide "Freshman Project" competition!



The Chinese activities organized through the House system this semester have not only expanded the students' intellectual horizons but have also deepened their understanding and love for the Chinese language, literature, and culture through immersive experiences. From profound literary discussions to hands-on cultural practices, and culminating in student-driven innovative research, each step vividly demonstrates that when interest is ignited and exploration is encouraged, the learning of Chinese unfolds its most splendid brilliance. We wish students discover even more wonders within the vast ocean of the Chinese language in the years to come.



(Written/Pictures by High School Chinese Department   Reviewed by Qian Zuo)