Chinese New Year

This week we have been finding out about Chinese New Year. We all learnt to say 'Gung Hei Fat Choi!' which means Happy New Year in Chinese!We loved the story about a horrible monster called Nian. He liked eating up people. To scare Nian away, the people started banging drums and gongs. We enjoyed that bit! We also learnt that the colour red is supposed to bring good luck. During the New Year festival, many people watch a famous dragon dance. The dragon swoops and sways along the streets. The Chinese believe that dragons are kind and helpful. They bring good luck. The twelve years in the Chinese calendar are all named after animals. We all enjoyed listening to the story of how the twelve animals were arguing because each animal wanted the New Year to be named after him. You will have to read the story or ask one of us to find out how the argument got sorted out!In class we enjoyed making lucky money envelopes, lanterns and dragons.We also listened to some Chinese music and enjoyed moving our bodies to the music and dancing with a streamer.
Next week we will be learning about pets. Our main text is the fantastic book by Mick Inkpen, 'The great Pet Sale.'Watch this space!

And now a plea

We are very lucky to have a classroom pet. Yes, we have three goldfish. However, we really need a new tank for them. If you have one that is no longer wanted, please would you consider donating it to us.
We would also love any suitable clothes for dressing up such as out grown fairy costumes, princess costumes fireman outfits, police outfits, builder outfits etc.. Also any old hats, handbags, purses necklaces, wallets, dolls, dolls clothes would be gratefully received. Thank you in anticipation!