Cantonese 2 (C2)

C2 is a continuation of C1. Students continue to deepen their skills in reading comprehension and writing traditional Chinese characters in Cantonese in addition to learning Chinese culture. Upon completion of this class in two years, students typically transfer to L3 or L4.

Hanyu Pinyin 漢語拼音 Level Kindergarten (HLK)

The Pinyin class centers on teaching early elementary schoolers Pinyin phonetic system. Students will learn how to pronounce sounds/words with Pinyin and to write out each sound phonetically using Pinyin in an engaging learning environment with both indoor and outdoor activities/lessons.

Hanyu Pinyin 漢語拼音 Level 2 (HL2)

Level 2, HL2 is a continuation of HL1. Students continue to deepen their skills in reading comprehension and writing simplified Chinese characters supported by Pinyin phonetic system in addition to learning Chinese culture.

Level 1 Mandarin (L1)

Traditional Chinese level 1 is the first class in which students learn to recognize and to write traditional Chinese characters after they have mastered Zhuyin in the previous year. Students start with Chinese characters that have fewer strokes but in context and gradually move on to characters with more complicated strokes. The vocabulary words are supported with Zhuyin for pronunciation purpose.

Level 3 Mandarin (L3)

Level 3 (L3) is a continuation of HL2 and L2. Students continue to deepen their skills in reading comprehension and writing simplified Chinese characters or traditional Chinese characters with Pinyin or Zhuyin whichever the student prefers in addition to learning Chinese culture.

Level 4 Mandarin + AP Level (L4/AP)

Level 4AP (L4AP) L4AP reviews the material in Meizhou Chinese 4 and emphasizes using the Chinese learned in L1-4 in a practical way. Students will practice speaking, listening, writing, and typing in a style that helps prepare students for the Chinese AP exam. Oral cultural presentations will be prepared and given. Idioms will be learned and used. Students will read sample e-mail and craft responses to them. Students will use class time to prepare written stories based on pictures and type these stories up for homework. In this way, the material already learned will be further reinforced through practical use. This is also great preparation for future AP Chinese exam takers. This class is a good supplement for middle and high school students currently enrolled in Chinese 2 at school.

Advanced

The Advanced Class is intended for students who have mastered Meizhou Chinese levels 1-6. Textbooks used will include Integrated Chinese 3, Meizhou Chinese SAT & AP Test Preparation Level 7, and Barron’s AP Chinese Language & Culture. This is good preparation for eighth graders who hope to test into Chinese 4 in high school and also good practice for high school students preparing for the Chinese AP Exam. The teacher will guide students in preparing and giving oral cultural presentations that are required on the AP text. Students will also become adept at using Chinese idioms in their speaking and writing. Under teacher guidance, students will read sample e-mails and craft responses to them and prepare written stories based on pictures in AP exam style.

Chinese Calligraphy & Painting (Kids & Adults)

Discover the timeless beauty of Chinese calligraphy and painting in a class designed for both kids and adults! In this class, students will learn to form Chinese characters with brush and ink while also creating paintings inspired by flowers, landscapes, and animals and learning about their symbolic significance.

The class emphasizes not only technique but also the meditative and expressive qualities of the art, making it a meaningful journey for learners of any age or skill level.

Children DO NOT need to register for the “regular” full year of Chinese School to participate! However, this elective is offered to full year Chinese School students for no additional fee.

Mahjong

Whether you’re picking up Mahjong for the first time or are already a seasoned player, this class is for you! Learn and enjoy the rich traditions of Chinese Mahjong across different styles, including Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Taiwan style Mahjong. You’ll build your skills, pick up strategies, and connect with fellow players in a fun, welcoming environment. Come play, learn, and experience the excitement of Mahjong! All skill levels are welcome!

Mommy/Daddy & Me

Get ready to sing, dance, and play together! This class invites parents, caregivers, and children ages 0–5 to explore Mandarin through lively nursery rhymes, songs, and interactive games. Every activity is designed to be fun while helping little ones absorb language naturally. Parents and caregivers join in every step, sharing laughter, movement, and discovery, creating special moments of connection while introducing Mandarin to the whole family.

Taiwanese Hokkien (臺語) Conversation

Join Ms. Alice Ong in our new Taiwanese Hokkien Conversation Class! A native of Taichung, Taiwan, Alice brings her love of teaching and rich life experience as a mom, Sunday school teacher, Chinese school instructor, and public school teacher at Ridgecrest Intermediate. Alice is excited to share Taiwanese Hokkien in a fun and welcoming way!

Our new Taiwanese Hokkien Conversation Class is designed for adults and students ages 12 and up who want to connect with this vibrant language in a practical, engaging way. The class emphasizes speaking and listening skills, with lessons built around useful phrases, interactive practice, and cultural insights. All levels are welcome!

Children DO NOT need to register for the “regular” full year of Chinese School to participate! However, this elective is offered to full year Chinese School students for no additional fee.

Wing Chun Kung Fu (詠春功夫)

Sifu Arsenije Jelovac brings over 25 years of martial arts expertise to our Wing Chun program. As a Full Master in Traditional Wing Chun and internationally recognized instructor, he has taught seminars across Europe, the United States, and Canada. His impressive credentials include Triple European Champion in Sanda Sanshou (散打, Chinese Kickboxing), seven-time Champion of Serbia, and trainer for the Serbian National Team. Sifu Jelovac also served in the Serbian Special Forces, bringing real-world experience to his teaching. Whether you’re seeking to develop confidence, learn authentic traditional techniques, or enhance your self-defense skills, Sifu Jelovac warmly welcomes students of all levels with his practical, accessible approach to Wing Chun Kung Fu.

Children DO NOT need to register for the “regular” full year of Chinese School to participate! However, this elective is offered to full year Chinese School students for no additional fee.