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Puxi Campus G8 | Chinese Speech Competition: Colliding Viewpoints, Igniting Confidence, and Unfolding a Glorious Chapter

December 14, 2023

On the afternoon of December 7th, the 8th grade Chinese Department held the annual Chinese speech competition titled People, Time and Life. The competitors were made up of a selection of outstanding students from each level of Chinese class, who were asked to participate in the final round by group. From this talented group, the judges selected the recipients of the first, second and third-place prizes. The themes of this speech were diverse, containing topics such as “Bank of Life”, “My View of Education”, Hengshui Middle School and cultural capital. The speeches also included subjects such as the comparison of Chinese and foreign literature, the interpretation of trending social topics, reflections on life experiences, critical analysis, as well as the telling of stories about the legends of grandparents.

The four speakers who took the stage first were 8-12 Vivian ,8-8 Alex, 8-10 Jessica and 8-6 Shingo. They began with life experiences, and brought us information about their dreams, self-discipline, and education. Vivian and Jessica told us about the possibility of “kindness education” and the importance of persisting in dreams. Alex proposed the philosophy that only by enjoying the present and encouraging oneself can one make progress. Meanwhile, Shingo highlighted the three essential qualities of self-discipline, hard work, and patience in life.

Next up was the H-Level competition, where 8-2 Victoria explored the origins, psychology, and pros and cons of the Chinese language and the importance of leaving one’s comfort zone. 8-13 Arianna shared the same topic, presenting the idea that knowledge gained from personal experience rather than books in the classical context. 8-1 Yili revealed the correlation between oppression and resistance, highlighting that resistance is sometimes the key to a better future. At last, 8-6 Alina introduced the concept of cultural capital and advocated for teaching cultural capital in YD classes.

Under the theme of Time, 8-2 Dora, 8-1 Alexandra, 8-9 Heidi and 8-2 Michelle vividly shared stories about their ancestors. 8-2 Dora spoke about her relentless grandparents who kept striving for their dreams. 8-1 Alexandra shared the twenty-year journey of a young intellectual sent to rural areas and later returning home. 8-9 Heidi used her grandparents' story to impart three life philosophies for attaining happiness. 8-2 Michelle talked about her grandparents' passion for life despite the passage of time.

The best was yet to come. There was a presentation segment by non-native students. The audience had the pleasure of enjoying two creative adaptations of the mythological story videos. Through their humorous and lively retellings, these students showcased their creative interpretations of the classic tales.

During the award ceremony, Ms. Liu Qiong, the Supervisor of SHSID Middle and Primary School Teaching Affairs Center(MPTC), and Ms. Chen Fan, Head of SHSID Middle School Chinese Department, presented the prizes to the S-Level award winners. Congratulations to 8-8 Alex and 8-12 Vivian for receiving third place, 8-6 Shingo for receiving second, and 8-10 Jessica for receiving the first! Mr. Ni Minxue, Director of SHSID Middle and Primary School Teaching Affairs Center (MPTC), awarded the prizes to H-Level award winners. Congratulations to 8-1 Yili and 8-6 Alina for receiving the third prize, 8-13 Arianna for receiving the second prize, and 8-2 Victoria for receiving the first prize. Mr. Shen Tianyuan, Vice Principal of SHSID Middle and Primary School presented the prizes to award winners talking about the Footprints of Grandparents. Congratulations to 8-2 Dora, 8-9 Heidi for receiving the third prize, 8-2 Michelle for receiving the second prize, and 8-1 Alexandra for receiving the first prize!

Students who received the Independent Learning Award were also recognized. 8-1 Lily, 8-1 Alexandra, 8-7 Claire, 8-9 Emma, Heidi and 8-13 Harry received recognition with the Expressive Minds Award. The winners of the Independent Learning Award from the non-native class were 8-1 Emina, 8-3 Eileen, 8-4 Coco and 8-10 Xinwei.

The competition ended successfully. Thanks to all the participating students, teachers, and everyone who presented for their hard work and dedication! The Chinese speech competition not only enhances everyone's Chinese writing skills but also cultivates their abilities in expression and critical thinking. May all students embrace the beauty of the Chinese language!

Written by 8-4 Julia

Supervised by Zhang Xinyi

Pictures by G8 Photography Service Learning Group

Edited by Serene Yang, Ginger Xu, Cong Luo, Wu Shiyu (Intern), Bianca Noguera