In our G6 Individual and Society Classes this week, we focused on the theme of ‘The Four Great Chinese Inventions’ and explored in depth how the four great inventions of papermaking, printing, gunpowder and the compass have had a profound impact on the course of Chinese and the world's history. This lesson, we organised a ‘Four Great Inventions Knowledge Contest’, in which students were asked questions covering basic information about the four great inventions, their historical impact and their relevance to modern technology. Through the intense competition, students consolidated what they had learnt in a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere, and at the same time practiced their quick memory, reaction ability and teamwork spirit. More importantly, the students learnt to respect their opponents, enjoy the process and develop a good sense of competition and cooperation.

In this week's G7 history class, we have launched a series of inspiring classroom activities under the theme of ‘A Hundred Schools of Thought’. Firstly, through group work, students were assigned to different ‘schools of thought’, such as Confucianism, Taoism, Mohism, etc. They were required to study the core ideas of their respective schools of thought and prepare for an ‘academic debate’. During the debate, students not only had to explain their own school of thought, but also had to question and refute the ideas of other schools of thought. This kind of interaction not only deepened their understanding of ancient Chinese thought and culture, but also practiced their oral expression, logical reasoning and teamwork skills. Through these activities, students not only learnt how to look at historical events from different perspectives, but also cultivated an attitude of respect for diversity and critical thinking, which is highly in line with FCG's educational philosophy of ‘inclusiveness’.

In this week's G8 History class, we focused on the Sino-Japanese War (1894-95), a major historical event. Through role-playing activities, students took on the roles of Qing officials, and Japanese generals and officials to explore the background and course of the war and its impact on Chinese society. In the role-plays, students not only had to gain a deep understanding of the historical background and position of their respective characters, but also had to experience the complex emotions and far-reaching consequences of the war through dialogues and simulated treaty signing. This activity greatly honed the students' historical analysis and critical thinking skills. At the simulated negotiation table, students learnt how to weigh the pros and cons and understand the complex factors behind historical decisions, thus deepening their understanding of the Sino-Japanese War and its historical significance.