Little "birdie" says M-P students like learning Chinese

Shuttlecock--a version of hacky sack using a badminton-like "birdie" that you kick in the air with your feet (and only your feet, not your hands)--is very popular in Chinese culture.

This is an activity that obviously has fans in both China and the United States!

Here are some first graders in Wellman, who are learning to balance the "birdie" on their heads.

And here is a fifth-grader in Kalona, who like his birdie, is catching some air himself!

Township kindergartners love Chinese!

Washington Township kindergartners demonstrate that they can color and sing two Chinese songs!

• First, a song whose song is familiar to many Americans - "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes!"
• Second, a song titled "Little Red Flower."

Just because the students are young, don't let that get in the way of multitasking with coloring and singing some beautiful Mandarin Chinese!

Here is "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes"...

And here is "Little Red Flower"!

Third Grade Chinese Expert!

One of our third grade students from Wellman demonstrates impressive Mandarin Chinese understanding and fluency as she interviews Mrs. Hussey on her way to success!

Quizlet Live

It's a race to see which team will win as Wellman fifth graders play Quizlet Live!

While the kids were excited to see who would be victorious, as the teacher I was excited to see all the students actively learning, having fun, and learning Mandarin Chinese!

A-"maze"-ing Maze Game

This Kalona Elementary fourth grader demonstrates some amazing skills as she interviews Mrs. Hussey about various aspects of nature and whether she likes them or not (nǐ xǐhuan bù xǐhuan).

The goal is to move from the starting line to the top.

Writing Chinese characters

Writing Chinese characters may seem hard, but don't tell that to the elementary students who are writing beautiful Chinese characters as part of their Mid-Prairie studies.

Students play Quizlet Life

From second to fifth grades students enjoy playing "Quizlet Life," but before they play they need to study. All the students get involved. Once they are ready, they compete to see which teams can finish first, adding an element of competition and fun to their studies.

Wellman Elementary 1st and 2nd grade prepare for China "Tour"

On May 27 the first and second grade classes at Wellman Elementary School will participate in a virtual "tour" of China, and are busy preparing for their exciting excursion now.

Each day they arrive at class having passed by the Chinese dragon guarding the hallway!

Just a few days until they are in China for "real."