Our Chinese Culture

Wednesday (16/06/2010)
a) Morning activity
In conjunction with Duan Wu Jie, all the classes combined together to do this activity. All wrote the Chinese character “Wang” on their forehead. Then, each took a stem of leaf and sprinkled some water around. It is believed that this is to chase away the poisonous bugs, snakes, centipedes and also scorpions. It also will bring good luck and long blessing health to the families.

b) Balancing the egg
At 12o’clock noon, we tried balancing the egg on the floor. To our surprise, most kids could do it including myself. It’s amazing. Later in the evening, I tried again, the chances is lower and it seems to loose its weight.

c) Gravity
In the afternoon, I discussed with the kids about the amazing egg. They tried guessing. I threw a pen into the air and they observed that it fell down. I asked why? Foo Soon: “It is heavy”. Devin: “It is magic”.
I explained that it is the gravity. On Duan Wu Jie, the Sun is believed to be the nearest to the Earth. Thus, it is supposed to be the hottest day of the year. At the same time, the gravity is the strongest at 12 o’clock. That explains why suddenly, the egg can easily stand and balance. It’s the strong gravity!

d) Dragon boat template.
· There are a few sizes of Dragon Boat. The average consists of 40 rowers and 2 leaders. 1 is in front while another is playing the drum. The rowers will listen to the beat of the drum for the momentum. Thus, if a rower doesn’t look at the sea or his front view, he can just focus at his strength to row
· Each kid took a template. Then, they started colouring the boat beautifully. After that, they cut and fold along the lines. They label their names and the titles. Finally, they pasted with glue onto the paper boat which they folded yesterday.