K2: Puppet Fun–Unveiling the Magic of Puppetry
A celebration of Chinese culture presented by a Quanzhou marionette master.
"Carving wood into puppets, using puppets to tell stories." Puppetry, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage art form, came alive in our Newton Theatre. Master Hong Jindiao, a renowned marionette artist, graced us with his presence and a performance of his signature piece. We offered a unique opportunity for our K2 students to delve into the captivating world of puppetry through the "Puppet Fun" program, allowing the brilliance of Chinese puppetry to shine within our Newton community.
Up Close with Puppetry: Experiencing the Charm of Intangible Cultural Heritage
In the Newton Theatre, Master Hong provided a close-up demonstration of the intricacies of marionette puppetry, showcasing the craftsmanship involved in shaping, carving, painting, and embroidering these exquisite figures.
Through a combination of storytelling and performance, Master Hong introduced the children to classic puppetry techniques and characters from both Chinese and Western folklore. From the versatile Little Monk to the magical transformation of an older woman into a fairy; the mesmerizing tricks of the magician puppet to the face-changing artistry of the Monkey King, Master Hong's captivating performance, filled with nuanced expressions and impressive skills, left the children in awe, their cheers and applause echoing throughout the theatre.
The highlight for the children was the interactive session where they donned hand puppets and learned basic techniques under Master Hong's guidance. With his patient instruction, they manipulated puppets on stage, making them walk and twirl, their enthusiasm evident in their eager participation.
DIY Marionettes: Sparking Creative Minds
Following the captivating performance, the children embarked on a creative journey of their own, crafting puppets and creating puppet stories. This cultural immersion transformed them from spectators into active participants, allowing them to experience the artistry and ingenuity of puppetry alongside a master craftsman.
K1 & Nursery: Hello, Robot–A New Experience with AI Technology
An exploration of AI technology through interactive experiences with robots.
In this age of AI, we introduced our K1 and Nursery students to the wonders of technology through the engaging medium of robots and robot dogs. This playful and accessible approach allowed them to experience the magic of AI in a fun and educational way, sparking their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
AI Exploration: Discovering Robots
Prior to the activity, teachers engaged the children with robot-themed animations and stories. They were fascinated to learn about the diverse roles robots play, from assisting in factories and performing surgeries to helping with household chores and even delivering packages. This ignited their curiosity and desire to explore further.
On the day of the activity, our gym was transformed into a futuristic showcase. Guided by experts from Dreame Technology, the children learned about the workings of AI robots, their functions, and their real-world applications. These engaging demonstrations sparked a deep interest in robotic technology.
AI Exploration: Interacting with Robots
The children had a thrilling encounter with a robot dog, experiencing the wonders of AI firsthand. They took turns giving commands, shaking its paw, and even competing with it in push-ups. They also interacted with classic Disney characters through AI and witnessed the robot dog "dress" the Newton campus in a vibrant winter sweater.
AI Exploration: Creating with Robots
In the "Robot Creation" workshop, our K1 children experienced the joy of hands-on programming. Using easy-to-operate programming toys, they learned to control robots through simple modular commands, making Ferris wheels spin, Santa's sleigh move, and cranes that lift cargo. Their excitement was palpable as they watched their programming bring the robots to life. They also used various materials to build their own robots, assigning them unique functions and roles, giving full rein to their creativity and imagination.
After the activity, our Nursery children performed an enchanting robot dance and created their own colorful robots using paint and various materials. They excitedly donned robot headbands and posed for photos with their creations.
These enriching activities provided a magical blend of heritage and innovation. The children not only experienced the charm of traditional puppetry and the power of modern technology but also discovered the joy of learning through interaction and creation.
Beyond the classroom walls,
We open doors to a world of endless possibilities!
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