INSECT MOBILIZATION PROJECT
On April 10, 2024, Class 201's Chinese public lesson titled "I Am a Little Insect." Teacher Han Xiao led the children into the joys and sorrows of the insect world.
The children read remarkably well. The whole class read in unison, in groups, role-played, performed, and recited, every word echoing in the ears; whether whispered, loudly spoken, read quickly, slowly, narrated, or emotionally expressed, every word resonated deeply. They conveyed the joys, sorrows, risks, and delights of insects, every sentence vivid and lifelike.
The children understood it very well. The entire text revolves around the word "small." Because of "smallness," troubles are inevitable. Just a "bubble of urine" causes the little insect to suffer a catastrophic disaster of being "dizzy and confused." A thorn in the ear is just a normal part of life. A "tiny bird" can make the protagonist "evaporate among insects."
Also because of "smallness," joy is never lacking. A blade of grass becomes the most environmentally friendly and comfortable sanctuary, where one can "sway and stretch lazily." Not only can it bask in the gentle breeze and sunlight, but it can also "wash its face and wipe its whiskers with dewdrops." Is there a more delightful life under the sky? It's truly the "utmost joy among insects." And as for the "free express service," it offers even more perks.
Also because of "smallness," there's never a shortage of fun. Because "small insects produce big dung," dung beetles have no choice but to "never look at the road." Because they are "small," they can "leap far" just enough to evade the pursuit of mantises. Being so "small," even Auntie Hercules Beetle has a "big temper," ready to confront anyone, just like a rhinoceros. No wonder it's named "bull," or rather, "Hercules Beetle."
Moreover, Teacher Han also guided the children to read the entire text and encouraged them to perceive the protagonist's optimism, cheerfulness, and resilience. Just as life for insects mirrors human life, where there's sorrow, there's also joy. As long as one pays attention, there are surely many interesting companions around. Teacher Han also guided the children to appreciate the humorous and witty language characteristics of the text, the rich and delicate imagination, as well as the precise language description.
Teacher Han also took photographs of insects resting on the leaves of campus trees in the early morning. She also searched for many high-definition insect images online. The entire class was filled with poetic beauty, and the children confidently and brightly showcased their understanding of the text, presenting a rare and excellent lesson.
Teachers teach themselves. A good project requires careful planning by teachers. In a Chinese class, the primary task is for the teacher to repeatedly read the text, reading out emotions, immersing themselves in the world outlined by the text, only then can they convey its essence. Thank you, Teacher Han, for creating such a great project.
"Being in the wild is a stance, an outward escape from confinement." Even the most inconspicuous creatures are indispensable notes in the symphony of natural life. Every child is a mischievous "little insect," allowing them to immerse themselves in nature, blend with it, and blossom naturally, leaving no trace! Perhaps this is the original intention of PBL project-based learning.