Students Bring Culture of China to Westfield

Westfield, NJ -- Second graders in Washington Elementary School in Westfield wowed their standing room only audience on March 22 with a special presentation entitled “China A to Z.”

The 40 minute fact-filled performance featured every second grader sharing a wealth of information learned in social studies classes.

Demonstrating their knowledge through song and speech, the 76 students performed solo, in groups or as an entire class.

With an “A to Z” theme exhibited on a large screen at the rear of the stage flanked by real bamboo, the second graders revealed facts about China that corresponded to each letter of the alphabet.

Starting with “A” for agriculture through “Z” for zodiac, students explained traditions dating back to ancient times through present-day China. Results of their research included inventions, culture, topography, food, recreation, animals, and language.

Topping off the performance was a student-led Chinese dragon dance weaving its way through the auditorium in celebration of the Year of the Monkey.

When asked what this learning experience was like, second grader James Brouder said, “There was a lot to learn about China.”

His favorite revelation was discovering that 10 million people live in Beijing. James proudly pointed out his drawing adorning the auditorium wall – one of several which also had been projected on the screen.

“I liked making the buildings the best,” said James, whose art assignment was to illustrate the letter “B.”

His mother, Denise Brouder, remarked, “I recently had a business trip to China and at the time tried to explain where I was working. Today was a wonderful way for me to connect the dots of where I was to my son.”

Washington School Principal, Andrew Perry, gave credit to second grade teachers Christine Culver, Carol Fahrenthold, Patricia Honeywell, and Christine Olenick as well as art teacher Diana D’Amico for their role in preparing the students for the performance. Special thanks were given to Mr. Pat Esemplare, who provide accompaniment on the piano.

-- By Lorre Korecky

(Photos provided)

Photo 1: Washington School’s auditorium was transformed into a travel adventure to China when second graders revealed facts about China that they learned in social studies class, including pandas, inventions, culture, topography, food, recreation, and language.

Photo 2: The Year of the Monkey was celebrated in Washington Elementary School in Westfield as 76 second graders demonstrated their knowledge of China in song, recitation and art on March 22.