Lower school Mandarin students worked with MVS’ partner school in China to collaborate in project-based learning for the Mid-Autumn “Moon” Festival. This activity helped both MVS students and students in China learn a second language and participate in cultural exchange.

The students met each other in multiple Zoom meetings. In breakout rooms, students used their second language to introduce themselves, talk about their understanding of the Moon Festival, and ask a question about the Moon Festival. After discussions, all students reflected on what was challenging, what was fun, and how they could overcome language challenges.

Lower school Mandarin teacher Esther Seday wrote, “This collaboration helped enhance the students’ learning. Many students feel shy about communicating with others without using their mother language. However, these children were so happy that the languages they are learning can apply to real-life situations. They love to have friends from another country, and they are looking forward to seeing each other again.”