Frequently Ask Questions


Table of Contents

  1. Will my child be at a disadvantage if our household does not speak Chinese?
  2. What are the advantages of a bilingual education?
  3. How can I assist with schoolwork if I do not know the Chinese language?
  4. Why is your program in Cantonese not Mandarin?
  5. How is the Chinese Heritage School different from other Chinese schools?
  6. What are the academic expectations of the students at Chinese Heritage School?
  7. How involved do parents need to be?

1) Will my child be at a disadvantage if our household does not speak Chinese?

No. Approximately 20% of our students are from non-Cantonese speaking households. Prior Chinese language background is not necessary to attend our school.

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2) What are the advantages of a bilingual education?

A bilingual education enhances learning capacity and intellectual capacity. A bilingual education also provides students with a strong foundation for advanced learning and international career opportunities.

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3) How can I assist with schoolwork if I do not know the Chinese language?

Because approximately 20% of our families do not speak Cantonese at home, our teachers will prepare homework that children can do without parent assistance. Showing interest in his/her homework and participating in and reviewing homework will be all the help your child will need.

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4) Why is your program in Cantonese not Mandarin?

There are only 5 Cantonese schools and 23 Mandarin schools in New Jersey. Cantonese is the second most popular language of China, and is the most commonly used language in other Asian countries. The goal of the Cantonese class is to encourage the students to take up the interest in learning Chinese language so that they will continue to explore the Chinese cultures.

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5) How is the Chinese Heritage School different from other Chinese schools?

The Chinese Heritage School offers a series of Chinese Language classes design specifically for children. These classes will be taught in Cantonese and utilized textbooks from Hong Kong elementary schools. The students will learn to read and write traditional Chinese characters and converse with Cantonese during class. The classes are designed to be fun and interesting, not force-feeding. Cantonese Conversation classes are also part of our special outstanding program.

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6) What are the academic expectations of the students at Chinese Heritage School?

Upon finishing the series of classes, the students will expect to be able to read a simple novel or Chinese newspaper and carry a daily conversation.

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7) How involved do parents need to be?

Parents are expected to participate and support school fund-raisers, and volunteer an average of 6 hours. We strongly believe that parent involvement is a major factor in a student's academic performance. Parent’s interest and encouragement is critical.

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Revised: October 12, 2000 .