Activities About the Chinese Culture

One of the world's oldest and largest civilizations, China is home to almost a fifth of the world's population, with just over 1.3 billion inhabitants as of 2011. With a vast, complex history and a steadily growing influence in the global marketplace, Chinese culture is a fruitful and fascinating topic for a variety of classroom activities.


Crafts

Children can learn about Chinese culture by replicating or making models of items like the Chinese flag, the Great Wall or traditionally dressed Chinese people. Younger children can color in pictures of famous moments in Chinese history, while older children can attempt to replicate them in three-dimensional models or puppet shows. The Chinese are also responsible for the invention of many common objects, such as matches, silk, kites, paper and gunpowder. Children can research the development of some of these inventions and try to make their own. Alternatively, students could research traditional Chinese art forms, such as calligraphy and ink paintings, and try to create their own artwork using these forms.


Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year is one of the most important and elaborate celebrations of the year. Have children investigate their Chinese Zodiac signs and make drawings with explanations about what the signs mean. To prepare for a celebration, let the students construct red paper lanterns and Zodiac puppets. Make fireworks out of construction paper and glitter, a papier-mache dancing dragon, or a lion made from Popsicle sticks. Students could also prepare traditional food for the New Year, complete anagrams and word searches related to the New Year and participate in Chinese New Year traditions.


Cuisine

Most students have probably encountered "Chinese" fast food restaurants, but they probably do not know much about authentic Chinese cuisine. To teach children about Chinese culture in an enticing and interactive way, allow them to participate in preparing simple Chinese dishes, such as scallion pancakes, dumplings or mooncakes. You might also teach them about proper Chinese dining etiquette, including how to hold and use chopsticks. Tea is also an integral part of Chinese culture, and it has a very specific set of rules, traditions and history that older students could learn.


Literature

The Chinese have a long history of poetry, legends and literature that teachers can use to teach students about Chinese culture. Have students research different types of Chinese poetry and try to write poems in this style. Read younger children Chinese fairy tales and have them illustrate the stories they hear, or describe some of the similarities between Chinese and Western fairy tales, such as "Cinderella" and "Little Red Riding Hood." Older students can compare ancient Chinese legends or novels to those of other cultures and write about the common themes or differences they perceive. Students might also enjoy learning about the Chinese alphabet and practicing the art of Chinese writing.