Say ‘是 Shì’ to Chinese for a gateway into a global language
If you want to learn a language with growing global appeal, Say ‘Yes’ to Chinese week is perfect for you. Over the next few days, you can delve into the culture and traditions of one of the world’s most prominent languages.
Know your languages? Well if you’ve been keeping up with the Say ‘Yes’ to Languages campaign, we’re sure you do. So far this summer, students took a closer look at diverse languages including Portuguese, Romanian and Arabic.
With Chinese in the spotlight this week, it’s going to be another jam-packed week of language fun.
What’s happening during Say ‘Yes’ to Chinese week?
Looking for a language that can unlock international opportunities for work and travel? Chinese is ever more prominent on the world stage.
The two main dialects of Chinese are Mandarin and Cantonese. The more prominent of the two is Mandarin – in fact, 22.6% of overall internet use is in Mandarin. That’s why this week we’re focusing on Mandarin to give you insights into lots of aspects of learning and using Chinese.
Monday means getting to grips with greetings
Now is the time to dive straight into Chinese. Pick up some essential greetings and get a feel for the Chinese alphabet and calligraphy.
You can also meet DCU alumni Cathal Campbell, our Language Ambassador for the week. As a Chinese and Spanish graduate, he has a real passion for languages and can’t wait to guide you through online activities this week.
#TastyTuesday opens the door to a Chinese tea ceremony
People come from all over the world to experience traditional Chinese tea ceremonies. This #TastyTuesday, you get a sneak peak into this intricate and fascinating ritual.
Of course, #Tasty Tuesday wouldn’t be complete without a few nibbles too. Noodles, rice cakes and dumplings all feature in your virtual feast. Then learn how to order them from restaurants in China.
Celebrate this #WellnessWednesday
Rats might not immediately spring to mind when you think of #WellnessWednesday. However, this week is different…
Every year is designated a different animal from the Chinese zodiac and 2020 is the Year of the Rat. Find out what animal represents the year you were born as we zoom in on the zodiac.
You can also get an idea of how the lunar calendar works and see how festivals, birthdays and New Year’s are celebrated in China.
Thursday study highlight
Thursday is a day to get serious about studying Chinese. Explore your options when it comes to studying the language for the Leaving Cert. And if you want to go a step further, you can see just some of the third level options open to you.
As well as that, Language Ambassador Cathal is on-hand for a Q&A session. During this session, he’s going to answer lots of questions about studying Chinese at university in Ireland.
Unleash your musical side on Friday
Volume up, headphones on, it’s time for a very special Spotify playlist. This week our playlist is unreal. It’s packed with some of the most popular music in China, including everything from pop to rap.
Of course, Friday is also the day for the big #ChineseWeek quiz. Test your knowledge and see just how much you soaked up this week. Plus you might even win a prize, if you’re lucky…
How can I take part in Say ‘Yes’ to Chinese week?
Well the best way to take part in Say ‘Yes’ to Chinese week is to follow Languages Connect on social media. Our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter feeds are going to be frequently updated throughout the week with fresh online activities and content.
Fast facts about Chinese
Mandarin is the official language in:
- China
- Taiwan
- Singapore
Cantonese is the official language in:
- Hong Kong
- Macau
Native speakers: 1.2 billion
Study Chinese in Ireland
Not only is Chinese increasingly important for students seeking international careers, we also have a thriving community right here in Ireland. That’s why we’re delighted to say you can take it as a Leaving Cert subject. Interested? If Chinese is not available in your school, you can register for free Leaving Cert classes in Dublin or Cork.
You can also continue your studies at third level in Ireland too. From Food with Chinese Studies to Business with Chinese, there are lots of courses in the Languages Connect Careers Portal Language Course Finder.
Alternatively, you can take Chinese as a major, minor or elective module and combine the language with your pursuit of diverse subjects including music, maths and philosophy.
Keep learning after Say ‘Yes’ to Chinese week
When you wave goodbye to Say ‘Yes’ to Chinese week, you can keep learning with Languages Connect. Check out the Chinese hub for extra vocabulary and even more reasons to stick with the language.
Another place for inspiration is the Chinese YouTube playlist. Hear from industry experts on why Chinese is extremely useful for future careers, see what a TY term in China is like and get an insight into fun #ThinkLanguages workshops.
By now you should know that our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter feeds are essential follows for language lovers. Hit follow so you can keep up to date with all our latest news, content and competitions.
