Keystone Magazine Learning the Keystone Way 2015-2016 EN | Page 92

Chinese Thread
Grade 5 Molds
Lessons for Life
We have all had those moments, when a wisp
of a familiar aroma or an old tune triggers some
form of nostalgia in us. It might be the stew
grandma was busy cooking in the kitchen, or the
crisp whistle that sent a kit of pigeons gliding in
the air. In the autumn of 2016, a trip to the pot-
tery workshop would etch such moments into
the hearts of a group of grade 5 students. It was
also an attempt to plant seeds of lifelong love
and passion for Chinese culture.
Cultural Creativity Through Clay
“In addition to teaching the language, reading
and writing, the Chinese courses at Keystone also
incorporate the “China Thread” that weave in local
cultural and historical elements. This helps stu-
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dents identify with their cultural heritage while
learning their mother tongue,” explained grade 5
teachers Shi Mei and Chi Wenguang. An appre-
ciation for this traditional art form can be seen in
the student essays: “I couldn’t help marveling at
the fact that something as simple and common
in nature as clay, mixed with a bit of water, can
be turned into works of art in the hands of crafts-
men.” wrote a student.
Life lesson from the clay
The trip to the pottery workshop also served as
a link to their classroom lesson. Grade 5 had just
finished a chapter titled “Inspirations in Life” in
Chinese Language. Integrating pottery-making
and the “Inspirations in Life” ensured an organic