Class theme/topics discussed:
Chinese modern art2: Oba-Mao?
Minjun Yue’s art: What’s behind the smiling face?
How did you present the material? (handouts, group work, general discussion, student presentations, etc.)
Handouts, pair work, group work, general discussion
Why did you choose this topic?
Obama is a hot topic in China and recently a shop selling Oba-Mao T-shirt is shut down. Minjun Yue is a recently turn-to-be famous artist in China who is famous for his smiling symbolic face in his works. What’s behind the smile? Is it from heart? What does it reflect to? It’s a good topic including politics, arts and freedom.
How did students react?
They like the idea very much!
Did they engage with each other and you?
Yes. They engaged with each other and me pretty well and asked me questions.
What materials or media did you use? (articles, satellite tv, digital projector, etc.)
Satellite, laptop
Please attach a copy.
http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2009/11/13/2127121.aspx
http://eltonzeng.blog.hexun.com/37768440_d.html
http://yueminjun.artron.net/main.php
Would you recommend this activity for a future class?
Yes
Why or why not?
Students like debate and making their menu. It is a good way to provoke conversation.