Tying into the third-grade social studies curriculum on China and in celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year, students at South Bay tried their hands in Chinese writing and crafts on Jan. 26.

Maggie Chen from the Little Chinese Dragon School visited South Bay and taught students about the origin of Chinese writing and its characters. Ms. Chen spoke with students about the similarities and differences between Chinese and American culture. One difference is how characters (not letters) are used to represent a word or idea.

Using their brushes and inkpads, students learned to artfully write their good wishes for the New Year using Chinese calligraphy and completed a paper cutting activity which the Chinese hang outside for New Year blessings.