Objective
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to understand and appreciate the traditions and customs of Lunar New Year.
Materials and Prep
- Colorful paper
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers or crayons
- Printed pictures of Lunar New Year symbols (optional)
No prior knowledge or preparation is required for this lesson.
Activities
- Create Lunar New Year Decorations: Guide the student to cut out various shapes from the colorful paper, such as lanterns, dragons, or flowers. They can then decorate these shapes using markers or crayons. Encourage them to be creative and explain how these decorations are commonly used during Lunar New Year celebrations.
- Learn about Zodiac Animals: Show the student pictures of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals and briefly explain the characteristics associated with each animal. Ask the student to identify their own zodiac animal based on their birth year. Have them draw or color their zodiac animal and discuss its significance in Lunar New Year celebrations.
- Counting Red Envelopes: Teach the student about the tradition of giving red envelopes (hongbao) during Lunar New Year. Demonstrate how to count money using play or real coins, and explain that red envelopes usually contain money as a symbol of good luck. Have the student practice counting and sorting coins or pretend money into red envelopes.
Talking Points
- "Lunar New Year is a special holiday celebrated by many people around the world."
- "During Lunar New Year, people decorate their homes with colorful lanterns, dragons, and flowers."
- "The Chinese zodiac is a cycle of 12 animals. Each year is associated with a different animal, and people believe that the animal of the year has an influence on their personality."
- "The red envelopes given during Lunar New Year are a symbol of good luck and prosperity. They often contain money."
- "Counting money is an important skill. We can practice counting by using play or real coins and sorting them into red envelopes."