Fun Chinese: Building Bridges for Cultural Integration
——Chinese Corner
To enhance international students’ practical Chinese skills, help them appreciate the charm of Chinese culture and create a communication platform for Chinese and overseas students, the Language and Culture Center of Jiangsu University hosted a Chinese Corner event on the third floor of Jingjiang No.1 Building on the afternoon of May 23, 2026. Open to international students at HSK Levels 3–6, the activity attracted 24 registered participants following pre-event promotion. It was planned and delivered by students majoring in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages, under the on-site guidance of Teacher Ding Jinyan from the Language and Culture Center.
Centered on “fun interaction plus cultural experience”, the event featured a rich and diverse lineup of activities. It kicked off with self-introductions by Chinese and international students, which quickly broke the ice and fostered a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Carefully arranged sessions guided international students to practice Chinese and experience Chinese culture through immersive engagement.
The interactive games were both entertaining and practical. In the “Ping-Pong Ball Pick-up with Chopsticks” challenge, international students learned to use traditional Chinese tableware through teamwork and strengthened peer connections. The “Picture-to-Word Quiz”, run as a quick-response contest, helped learners build everyday vocabulary and sharpen oral fluency. The “Sentence-making Card Draw” focused on real-language application, enabling students to consolidate grammar and improve impromptu Chinese expression.
Following the games, the session moved to themed group discussions. Participants held lively exchanges around assigned topics, with selected representatives presenting their group outcomes. A judging panel consisting of teachers and volunteers scored presentations on the spot. This segment effectively trained students’ critical thinking and public speaking in Chinese, diversifying their opportunities for language practice.
Once all competitive rounds concluded, organizers tallied scores. Meanwhile, a brush calligraphy workshop opened to all participants. Cai Qi Chaoyang demonstrated writing techniques, explained the strokes and structures of Chinese characters in detail, and guided international students in calligraphy practice. This allowed overseas learners to witness the beauty of Chinese characters up close and immerse themselves in the unique appeal of traditional calligraphy.
An award ceremony wrapped up the event, where outstanding participants were recognized with certificates and exquisite gifts. Prizes included first, second and third-class awards, a universal participation award, and a special title — “Star of Chinese Corner”, greatly motivating student engagement. The event closed with a group photo to mark this precious moment of cross-cultural communication.
The whole event was carried out in a warm and vibrant atmosphere. Chinese volunteers patiently answered questions and shared Chinese-learning tips, while international students took an active part and spoke up confidently. The activity helped break down language barriers, improved Chinese proficiency through practice, and nurtured lasting cross-border friendship.
