Ashley Hall Observes Chinese New Year by Suzie Prentice

7th grader Princess Esser focuses on writing her Chinese characters

Celebrating the Chinese New Year 
By: Suzie Prentice
Edited by: Aubrey Groves

New Years is one of the most celebrated holidays in the world. The Lunar New Year, more commonly known as the Chinese New Year, is traditionally celebrated by Asian countries, however recently, as the world becomes more intertwined, people around the world have come to celebrate this holiday. During the first month of the Lunar New Year Ashley Hall had a few wonderful celebrations. Through different activities the students of Ashley Hall were able enjoy and learn about various traditions in which Chinese people partake. Through calligraphy, presentations, food, a dragon festival, and an international get together, the entire body of Ashley Hall started off a stellar New Year.

Ms. Webb's 7th Grade Class practices writing calligraphy

           Chinese characters, or writing, are often regarded for being both beautiful and unique. The seventh grade world history classes were able to experience the centuries old art of making calligraphy. They even learned about the importance of stroke order in China, and were able to use actual Chinese calligraphy brushes and paint. The final products looked wonderful and displayed all around the school, wishing everyone luck and a happy New Year!

           However, the seventh grade was not the only class to celebrate. The students enrolled in the Chinese I language class not only learned specific traditions in class, but were able to share these facts during morning meeting to the Upper School. There were facts about why Chinese people set off fireworks on New Year: to scare off a terrible beast that comes at the end of each year, to what clothing is worn: new clothing in the colors of red and gold. This experience enriched the students' knowledge of different cultures and the world, specifically China.

7th and 10th graders rehearse their Dragon Dance

           Not only did the school learn, but it was also treated to a lunch of delicious Chinese foods, including noodles and rice. The lunch was prepared and served by Chef Steve, and was greatly enjoyed by Ashley Hall. But the fun did not end there. Chopsticks were ordered, allowing teachers and students alike to show off their chopstick skills. By the end of lunch everyone was full and satisfied. This was definitely a favorite of many.

A dragon head from one of the groups made from recycled materials.

           The New Year also brought many students together when the seventh graders and sophomores worked together to create dragons. There were five groups, each made up of half seventh graders and half sophomores, and each group created a dragon, using only recycled and reused materials. The final product was then used by each team to choreograph a dragon dance, performed in assembly with authentic Chinese music. This shared similarities to the traditional dances in China today. Both grades enjoyed working, laughing, and getting to know each other. While building a bridge between our school and the world we were able to build a bridge to connect within our school.

Sarah Moody '14, Brittany Jordan '14, Jessica Schnorr '14, and Courtney Schnorr '16

           Lastly, one of the best ways that the New Year was celebrated was by having a party. This event was hosted at the International House, by the Global Studies Club. Many students and faculty came, celebrating the night with food, fireworks, and fun. The house was even decorated with red lucky banners and good luck symbols for the event! During this party everyone was able to appreciate the New Year and learn from the International Students all the things that happen in China. It was an amazing way to spend time just relaxing and enjoying the festivities.

Rachel Hua '16, Yuna Li '16, Cielo Wang '15 and Cheryl Highfield with Lucky Red Envelopes

Emma Wang '14 enjoying the fireworks

          
Hopefully next year there will be another celebration at Ashley Hall just as good as this year’s and more people will celebrate around Charleston. Ashley Hall will surely continue to share the amazing experiences it has had and things it has learned. Here’s hoping everyone will continue to have an excellent New Year learning about the world!
 

Ashley Hall Chinese New Year Party 2014