Character Evolution

This sequence explores the etymological evolution of Mandarin Chinese characters from ancient Oracle Bone Script to modern digital input. Students analyze pictographs, ideographs, and phono-semantic compounds to understand the logic of the written language and apply this knowledge to real-world environmental print.

Pictograph Puzzles

Students analyze ancient Oracle Bone Script versions of nature-based characters to trace their evolution into modern forms. They compare literal drawings to stylized standard script to understand simplification and abstraction.

Abstract Logic

Focuses on characters representing abstract ideas rather than physical objects. Students explore the logic of ideographs and practice using foundational characters for location and quantity.

Radical Riddles

Students tackle phono-semantic compounds, where parts suggest meaning or sound. They dissect characters to unlock the 'sound clues' hidden inside the majority of Chinese characters.

Digital Handzi

Students learn to use Pinyin input methods to generate characters digitally, practicing the selection of correct characters from homophones.

Shanghai Streetscape

A culminating activity where students analyze real-world Chinese street signs, menus, and advertisements to identify keywords and deduce meanings in context.