Chinese (students complete Chinese or Music or the other 4 subjects)

Module Content

This transition unit covers both Chinese Culture and Language.

There are a total of 14 topics that can be studied. It is not envisaged that all topics would be studied. Rather after the introduction is taught, topics will then be chosen for study that meets students’ interests and needs.

To enhance the learning experience, each lesson will introduce students to some Chinese language.

Topics:
1. General Introduction
2. History
3. Sports
4. Film
5. Characters
6. Handicraft
7. Festivals
8. Food and Tea
9. Family
10. Travel
11. Economy
12. Music
13. Traditional Chinese Medicine
14. Student Life in China

Students will be encouraged to learn a small number of words and phrases related to each topic. The language learning opportunities are embedded within each topic.

Aims & Objectives

Aims

• develop an appreciation of Chinese culture and language
  
• foster a positive attitude towards language learning, towards the speakers of other languages and towards other cultures and civilisations.
• provide students with an opportunity to develop team work and organisational skills.

Objectives
On completion of this unit students should be able to:

•  discuss and analyse aspects of Chinese culture video and artefacts
• show an appreciation of Chinese culture
• discuss areas of similarity and difference between Irish and Chinese culture
• demonstrate an ability to work in groups
• collect and present data in a way that is interesting and challenging to their peers
• demonstrate skills associated with research, communication and presentation and information processing
• listen to and speak (or sing) some basic words and phrases in Mandarin.

Assessment

Students will research a topic and build a portfolio on aspects of Chinese culture which interests them and will be asked to present it to their classmates. 
Students will be encouraged to integrate the topics with different curriculum areas and compare them with Irish culture.