We all know the importance of learning Mandarin as part of the curriculum, but what are some other ways Chinese culture can come to life at school?
We posed this question to Shanghai teachers to hear about their experiences connecting students with Chinese culture. They have come back with stories of trips outside the classroom, celebrating significant cultural events and activities that teach students about Chinese history. These efforts provide the children a deeper understanding and appreciation for the country in which they live.
So, as the school year continues and children come together intheir multicultural classrooms, let's hear from Kate Klein, history, geography and English teacher at Shanghai Singapore International School.
As a history teacher to Grade 7 students at Shanghai Singapore International School, I enjoy teaching Ancient History, which includes what historians consider to be the oldest continuous civilization in the world: China. History comes alive for students as we connect our current lives in the Middle Kingdom to the powerful and influential account of the ancient Chinese.
Ancient China
Our studies begin by familiarizing ourselves with the timeline and geography of ancient China. Helping students understand that the unique culture here stems from the geographic isolation created by the deserts of the Gobi and Taklimakan, and mountains like the Himalayas; while reinforcing the idea that significant civilizations around the world developed on rivers － as did China on the Huang He. I try to connect the version of China they see today with the ancient periods of the past. One of the ways I like to do that is by exploring three major philosophies of ancient China: Confucianism, Legalism and Daoism. By learning about these philosophies, we better understand Chinese culture today. Within the Chinese culture and Chinese people today, we see references and reminders of these ancient philosophies.
Image via Shanghai Singapore International School
Chinese Philosophies
From the chaos and instability of the Warring States period, these philosophies sought to bring order. The culture created by the great teacher Confucius, namely filial piety, aimed to establish peace in all relationships. We know that respecting and honoring ones' parents is still an important dynamic within Chinese families today. Legalism was severe and centrally organized, giving power to the emperor who controlled all aspects of government and social life. Students are intrigued by the harsh punishments and the legalist Emperor Qin's powerful rule. And of course, Daoism, which speaks to the world’s natural order and how humans must find a way to live in harmony with that order. Today, we see the practice of calligraphy, Chinese medicine and Feng Shui, all rooted in ancient Daoism.
Image via Shanghai Singapore International School
My international students who have spent time in China always relate to these three philosophies. My students as travelers have seen significant historical sites associated with them. They have also heard the older generations of Chinese referring to them, and can usually make connections between these ancient philosophies and life in modern-day China.
[Cover image via Shanghai Singapore International School; Profile image via Kate Klein]
Kate Klein is an American teacher living in Shanghai with her husband and two young children. This is her second year teaching history, geography and English at Shanghai Singapore International School.
