The Lunar New Year, sometimes called the Chinese New Year, is considered a major holiday in China and celebrated by many other Asian countries. In the U.S., Asian immigrants celebrate by giving gifts of cash in red envelopes to family and friends. The amount of money given in these red envelopes can vary. Asian Americans and immigrants who didn’t grow up in this tradition worry over how much money to give. Listen to learn about this popular tradition and how it is similar to other holidays.
Story Length: 2:41
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May 31, 2017
4:31
China is scheduled to host more than 400 marathons this year as part of the central government’s national campaign to boost tourism and promote exercise. During a period of slowed economic growth, more and more cities in China are signing up to hold marathons. However, the central government has also criticized runners for lack of health awareness and organizers for poor safety practices. Listen to learn more about the growing interest in marathons in China and how organizers are trying to improve the process.
Read MoreJanuary 6, 2017
5:22
China is working to improve its public education by focusing on sparking curiosity and encouraging students to think independently. Traditionally, the focus was on gathering knowledge, passing tests and following orders. Now, students in some schools do their own research and discuss their ideas, which is helping to improve student achievement. In a country where Chinese authorities traditionally assign students’ college majors and jobs, these changes in the education model will help students think for themselves and also thrive in Chinese society.
Read MoreJanuary 8, 2016
3:40
Research suggests that people see New Year's Day as an imaginary line separating the old from the new. That’s why many people make plans and resolutions for their “new selves” at the turn of the new year. However, most people fail to keep their resolutions, since the “new selves” are usually not much better than the old ones. Listen to hear suggestions on how to stick to your New Year’s resolutions. Then after hearing these ideas, debate with your students whether we should continue to make New Year’s resolutions.
Read MoreFebruary 3, 2014
3:56
Many Chinese citizens did not light fireworks this year to ring in the year of the horse because many parts of China already have toxic air pollution levels. Lighting fireworks during the Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year, is traditionally done to bring good luck. Listen to this story to learn why the Chinese are especially worried about air pollution.
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