LANKY NEWS

Last week, our first graders amazed everyone with their enthusiasm and hard work at the Academic Fair, which marked the end of our Transdisciplinary Unit: Where We Are in Place and Time. The central idea, “Celebrations are universal, but the events and ways of celebrating are characteristic of a culture,” came to life as the children explored the rich traditions of the Chinese, Japanese, Hindu, and Welsh New Year celebrations.

Through lively songs and a play, colourful crafts, informative posters, and interactive games, the students proudly shared what they learned about how cultures around the world welcome the new year. The children highlighted that while all cultures celebrate the New Year with joy and hope for the future, the ways they do so are diverse. For example, the Chinese and Japanese New Years include cleaning the house to bring good luck, while in Hindu celebrations, people light lamps to signify new beginnings. The Welsh New Year, Calennig, involves children singing from house to house, while the Mexican New Year is celebrated with 12 lucky grapes eaten at midnight. Despite these differences, the children discovered that all these celebrations share a spirit of togetherness and renewal.

I am so proud of our students for their curiosity in exploring these cultural traditions and for presenting their work so beautifully.

Congratulations, Grade 1!