Research has confirmed that time spent in experiencing the second language as the medium of instruction is more effective in producing language proficiency than time spent in direct language instruction alone. Therefore, an approach of integrated instruction will be adopted in this program.
Subject areas
Chinese Language Arts
Like the learning of any other foreign languages, Chinese Language Arts is composed of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Starting from the third week of school, students will be immersed in a 90%-100% Chinese environment, listening to routine languages, stories, nursery rhythms, songs, etc. in Chinese. At the same time, they begin to produce Chinese output in the forms of words, phrases, simples sentences, short conversations, nursery rhythms and songs. They also learn to identify and write basic strokes of Chinese characters and simple Chinese characters. Considering their age, emphasis is put on listening and speaking, while reading and writing are introduced as a complimentary component.
Mathematics
The math curriculum reinforces and enhances what students learn in the English classroom. At the kindergarten level, contents such as counting, Chinese number recognition and writing, patterning, basic shapes, concepts of time are introduced. Learning math in Chinese helps students to develop logical thinking, expand vocabulary and relate the language to real life situations.
Science
When learning science, students investigate topics in each of the three science disciplines: life, earth, and physical science. They also develop an understanding that scientific inquiry involves observing, questioning, investigating, and recording and problem-solving.
Social Studies
This curricular area focuses on history and geography. Students use historical thinking to understand the past. They also understand the world in spacial terms and describe places in their immediate environment.
Chinese Culture
The “mysterious” Chinese culture is adapted to students’ age. Children participate in hands-on projects and activities that acquaint themselves to cultural elements such as celebration of traditional Chinese festivals, concept of Chinese zodiac, facial makeup in operas, paper cutting, drawing and writing with brush, paper fan, games played by Chinese children, etc.
Homework
Homework is assigned as an extension of the instructional program and to reinforce learnings in the classroom.
Your child will be bringing homework home after Thanksgiving. Homework will be sent home on Friday every week and should be returned by the following Tuesday. During short weeks or before special events, your child may not have homework. Late or missing homework will be reflected in the report card.
Parents should schedule a homework time for every child at least one night per week. This time averages 10-15 minutes for a kindergarten student.
To assist your child in completing homework assignments, consider these suggestions:
Your child will be bringing homework home after Thanksgiving. Homework will be sent home on Friday every week and should be returned by the following Tuesday. During short weeks or before special events, your child may not have homework. Late or missing homework will be reflected in the report card.
Parents should schedule a homework time for every child at least one night per week. This time averages 10-15 minutes for a kindergarten student.
To assist your child in completing homework assignments, consider these suggestions:
- ask your child for his/her assignments;
- set aside a specific time;
- choose a quiet place free from excessive noise, interruptions and other distractions;
- equip the study area with crayons, pens, paper, etc.;
- organize to use time efficiently; and carefully check your child’s assignments for completeness and timeliness.