CHS introduces Mandarin language class for 2014-2015 school year

CHS+introduces+Mandarin+language+class+for+2014-2015+school+year

This year, CHS added a Mandarin language class to its curriculum. The new class will help students who wish to learn Mandarin and help them gain a better understanding of the Chinese culture. Advanced Placement and College Prep Statistics teacher Jean Hu will be teaching the new Mandarin class. This is her first year at CHS teaching Mandarin classes.

Hu intends to teach the class by incorporating Common Core standards. To accomplish this goal, Hu wants to introduce realistic situations and examples from China to students. By learning about the culture of the country as well as the language, students will fully relate to what they are learning and will be more engaged in class when they see the true similarities between American and Chinese cultures. Hu believes that learning about Chinese culture can give further insight on the origin of certain words and why these words are used. Students will learn reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in Mandarin. Hu also plans to teach students in a way that engages all students.

“I want to involve all my kids,” said Hu, “I use a tape that is a physical, total response, so kids really enjoy it”.

There is currently one Mandarin I class with 25 students enrolled. The students in the class this year will be have the option of moving up to Mandarin II next year. All the students have enjoyed learning the language and being taught by Hu.

Hu, originally from China, has always wanted a new language to be taught at CHS. When Hu discovered that the creation of a Mandarin class was possible, she instantly jumped at the opportunity to teach the language.

Hu is grateful that the school has allowed her to continue different levels of this class for many more years. In the future, she hopes that more students as well as teachers can participate in the language and culture of Mandarin.