Monday, March 2, 2009

Possible Presentation Topics

Which one interest you most? Let us know and you might get what you want soon!!!

Three-word chant / Three Character Classic (San Zi Jing)
China’s traditional enlightenment / education: embodiment of Confucian thoughts, which have great impact even on today’s Chinese society

The Forbidden City
Introduction and discussion of the imperial palace (Emperor(s), Empresses, Eunuchs, Officers, etc.), its structure and system of rules.

Traditional Clothing
Styles in different dynasties (e.g. Han, qipao, etc.)

Traditional Gourmet Food
Chinese eating styles, E.g. Sichuanese cuisine, Cantonese cuisine, Imperial Man-Han Banquet

Tai Chi (Taoism)
Origin, beliefs, bagua, ying-yang, qi gong, current development

The Art of War (Sun Zi Bing Fa)
Application of ancient saint’s knowledge, in the business world

Eastern Style of Architecture (feng shui system)
Chinese elements e.g. Suzhou Gardens, Great Wall, etc.

Confucianism (Confucius and Mencius)
Introduction of Confucius and Mencius, their philosophies and impacts on China

China’s Education System (since ancient times)
From the imperial examination system to college entrance examination; comparison between western and Chinese systems

Chinese Ethnic Minorities
Demographics, traditions, rights, current affairs and developments

Giant Panda
Distribution, breeding and growth process; significance to China

Wu Zetian (the only Empress in Chinese history)
Women’s status since ancient times; Wu’s character, achievements and stories

Chinese Buddhism
the development and evolution of Buddhism in China, its status in history and current condition

Guqin (traditional Chinese musical instrument)
The oldest Han musical instrument; its medical efficacy, its legends, etc.

Family Relationships (form of address)
Seniority; genealogy; family meetings

Chinese Weddings and Funerals
Traditions (since ancient times); today’s customs

Feudalism
Impact on today’s society; seniority; equality vs. obedience; face (social perceptions of a person's prestige)

Zhang Yimou (2008 Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony)
Films, large-scale productions, China’s human resources and technology

Collectivism (Yao Ming, Liu Xiang)
Chinese perception of loyalty, belongingness, sense of honor to a group

Culture of Tea (Teahouse)
Tea from different regions, tradition of tea-drinking, etc.

Chinese Opera
Beijing opera, Sichuan opera, Cantonese opera, etc.

Martial Arts Stars (Jackie Chan, Jet Li, etc.)
Roads to success as a martial arts star, movies, significances

Culture of Alcohol (Wine / Beer)
Productions from different regions; tradition of drinking; today’s industry

Treating someone to Dinner
Differences between American (Going Dutch) and Chinese tradition; origin of the tradition, its development and current state

Modern Chinese Entertainment
Night life, karaoke, mahjong, etc.

The Great Wall
Its structure, role, related historical events, etc.

One-child Policy
Purpose, effect, citizens’ perception and acceptance level

Chinese Human Rights
Election system

5.12 Sichuan Earthquake (2008)
personal experience

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