L.O.T.E. - Mandarin
At Streeton Primary School, Mandarin is an integral part of the curriculum, with all year levels participating in one hour of lessons each week. Our program fosters engagement and cultural understanding through interactive and hands-on learning experiences tailored to each age group.
Foundation to Grade 2
Younger students are introduced to Mandarin through songs, dance, and fun activities. They play games that encourage listening and responding to instructions in Mandarin and participate in role-playing scenarios where they practice greetings such as saying "hello" and "goodbye" at the right times. Writing skills are developed by tracing Chinese numbers in the air, helping students become familiar with the shapes and movements of Chinese characters. For cultural understanding, students explore tai chi as a relaxation exercise, discovering its benefits for both body and mind.
Grades 3 to 6
Older students deepen their Mandarin learning through practical applications. They take on classroom responsibilities, such as marking attendance and counting classmates in Mandarin, fostering confidence in using the language in everyday contexts. Students also practice conversational phrases like "How are you?" and "What did you do on the weekend?" to build their speaking and listening skills. Writing activities focus on tracing and practising numbers, as well as learning the stroke order and direction of Chinese characters.
Cultural exploration includes studying Chinese festivals and customs. Students enjoy learning about traditions, including the dos and don'ts for special occasions like Chinese New Year, enhancing their appreciation for Chinese culture.
Through this comprehensive program, students at Streeton Primary School gain valuable language skills while developing a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and traditions.