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Compare Birthday Cultures in Different Countries

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Compare Birthday Cultures in Different Countries

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Research and compare birthday traditions across different cultures.

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Let’s talk about Chinese birthday traditions—old wives’ tales, fun facts, and some practical tips for navigating Chinese birthday customs.

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Etiquette & Birthday Terminology By Age  

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Etiquette & Birthday Terminology By Age  

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https://thewoksoflife.com/chinese-birthday-traditions/

In the old days, if you were to ask a Chinese person’s age, they would gladly tell you. But these days, Chinese folks are influenced more and more by Western culture, so don’t be surprised if people try to dodge the age question—especially women!

But if you must ask, here is how to ask a Chinese person their age:

When asking children: “你几岁了?” (Nǐ jǐ suìle?) This is usually a friendly question, asked with a big smile!

When asking a young to middle aged person, “请问您贵庚?” Qǐngwèn nín guìgēng？ This phrasing is more polite than what you might ask a child.

When asking a young to middle aged woman, you can also use, “请问您芳龄?” Qǐngwèn nín fānglíng? Again, this is polite phrasing, but just know that she may politely decline to answer.

When asking the elderly (both men and women), “请问您高寿?” Qǐngwèn nín gāoshòu? Again, a big smile never hurts.

There are also different customs for youths and for elderly folks, and so there are different terminologies for how to refer to “celebrating your birthday.”

For children and people up to middle age, to celebrate a birthday is: 过生日 (guò shēngrì).

For elders, to celebrate a birthday is: 做寿 (zuòshòu). Folks who are attending a birthday party are coming to 贺寿 (hè shòu) and 祝寿 (zhùshòu).

And you shouldn’t use the term “做寿” lightly. Most people would not use this word on themselves unless they consider themselves “too old,” which is subjective. It’s best not to use it with anyone younger than 80 years old!

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Students will be able to explain key elements of Chinese birthday celebrations and their cultural significance.

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Students will identify and describe the characteristics of Chinese zodiac signs and their importance in Chinese culture.

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Teacher presents key vocabulary: 生日 (birthday), 长寿面 (longevity noodles), 寿桃 (birthday peach buns), etc.

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Learn Chinese - Birthday Words in Chinese 生日词汇 shēng rì cí huì

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Teacher observes student role-play activities and vocabulary usage throughout the lesson.

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Students complete an interactive quiz on Padlet about zodiac signs and birthday customs.

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Students explain the significance of various birthday customs in their own words.

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Students share most interesting learned facts about Chinese birthday culture.

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Students write one birthday greeting in Mandarin and explain one birthday custom they found meaningful.

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Write a birthday card in Mandarin incorporating learned expressions and customs.

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Students research their own zodiac sign and create a digital presentation about its characteristics.

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Chinese Zodiac Sign

Years

Rat

...1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020...

Ox

...1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021...

Tiger

...1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022...

Rabbit

... 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023 ...

Dragon

... 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024 ...

Snake

... 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025 ...

Horse

... 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026 ...

Goat

... 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027 ...

Monkey

... 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028 ...

Rooster

... 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029 ...

Dog

... 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030 ...

Pig

... 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031 ...

Chinese New Year, day 1 of the Chinese lunar year, falls somewhere in the period January 21st to February 20th.

The Start of Spring is the 1st of the 24 Solar Terms, beginning on February 3rd or 4th.

What is the Chinese zodiac, and how many animal signs does it have?

The Chinese zodiac is a system that assigns an animal to each year in a repeating 12-year cycle. Each animal sign is believed to represent different personality traits, fortunes, and prospects for the people born in that year. The 12 animals in the zodiac cycle are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Each animal has its unique characteristics, symbolism, and cultural significance, which have been passed down through generations.

The Chinese zodiac is based on a combination of astronomy, astrology, and mythology. It dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE) and has been used in China for thousands of years as a tool for fortune-telling, matchmaking, and personal and social guidance. The zodiac signs are also associated with the five elements - Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water, which further add to the complexity of the system.

Today, the Chinese zodiac is widely recognized and celebrated worldwide, and many people follow its predictions and customs. It is an essential part of Chinese culture and serves as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting generations and promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

Which animal is associated with the current year according to the Chinese zodiac?

The current year (2023) is the year of the Water Rabbit according to the Chinese zodiac. The Rabbit is the fourth animal sign in the zodiac cycle and is associated with good fortune, happiness, and peacefulness. People born in the year of the Rabbit are believed to be gentle, compassionate, and creative, with a strong sense of family and community.

The Rabbit is also associated with the Wood element, which is believed to symbolize growth, prosperity, and optimism. In Chinese astrology, the combination of the animal sign and the element can provide more specific predictions and insights into a person's personality and destiny.

The year of the Rabbit is considered an auspicious year for many things, such as starting a new business, getting married, or having a child. It is also a time to focus on building and strengthening relationships, pursuing personal growth and development, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

What are the characteristics and personality traits associated with people born in the year of the Dragon?

People born in the year of the Dragon are often seen as confident, ambitious, and adventurous. They are also known to be passionate, strong-willed, and have excellent leadership qualities. Dragons are the fifth animal sign in the Chinese zodiac and are associated with the Fire element, which is believed to symbolize energy, creativity, and transformation.

Dragons are highly respected and revered in Chinese culture and are often associated with the emperor, power, and authority. People born in the year of the Dragon are believed to possess some of these characteristics and are often successful in their careers and personal lives. They are also said to be charismatic, imaginative, and have a strong sense of justice and fairness.

Despite their many positive traits, Dragons can also be impulsive, stubborn, and prone to anger. They can sometimes struggle with their emotions and may find it challenging to work with others who do not share their vision or passion. However, with their determination and perseverance, Dragons can overcome most obstacles and achieve their goals.

How do people in China use the Chinese zodiac in their daily lives?

The Chinese zodiac is deeply embedded in Chinese culture and is often used in daily life to predict fortune and compatibility. Many people in China consult their zodiac sign when making important decisions, such as choosing a career, getting married, or starting a business. They may also use their zodiac sign to gain insight into their personality traits and tendencies.

In addition to personal use, the Chinese zodiac is also incorporated into various public events and festivals throughout the year. For example, during Chinese New Year celebrations, people often exchange gifts and greetings based on their zodiac sign. They may also attend special events and performances that feature the animals of the zodiac.

Overall, the Chinese zodiac serves as a cultural symbol of unity and connection in China. It is an integral part of daily life and remains a powerful tool for self-discovery and social interaction.

How has the Chinese zodiac influenced other cultures around the world?

The Chinese zodiac has a significant influence on many cultures around the world, particularly those in East Asia. Countries such as Japan, Korea, and Vietnam have adapted the Chinese zodiac into their own culture and often incorporate it into their daily lives.

In addition, the Chinese zodiac has also gained popularity in Western cultures, particularly in the United States and Europe. Many people in these regions are fascinated by the mystique and symbolism of the zodiac and use it as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth.

Overall, the Chinese zodiac has served as a powerful cultural bridge, connecting people across continents and promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Its influence continues to grow and evolve as people around the world embrace its timeless wisdom and enduring appeal.

Choose your date of birth and find out about your Chinese zodiac sign. Find Your Zodiac Sign

Snake: enigmatic, intelligent, wise.

Horse: animated, active, energetic.

Goat: calm, gentle, sympathetic.

Monkey: sharp, smart, curious.

Dog: lovely, honest, prudent.

Chinese Zodiac Sign

Lucky Numbers

Lucky Colors

Lucky Flowers

Lucky Directions

Chinese Zodiac Sign

Unlucky Numbers

Unlucky Colors

Unlucky Directions

Chinese Zodiac Compatibility - Is He/She Right for You?

Best Matches for the 12 Chinese Zodiac Signs

An important use of the Chinese zodiac is to determine if two people are compatible in a romantic relationship... or any kind of relationship. Zodiac compatibility is usually checked before getting married in China.

People born in a certain zodiac animal year are believed to have attributes of that animal, which determines their personality traits and could either help or hinder a relationship.

Chinese Zodiac Compatibility Calculator

Enter date of birth and test now

Best Matches for the 12 Zodiac Signs

Rat: Rat, Ox, Dragon, or Monkey

Ox: Rat, Snake, or Rooster

Tiger: Horse, Dog, or Pig

Rabbit: Goat, Dog, or Pig

Dragon: Rat, Monkey, or Rooster

Snake: Ox or Rooster

Horse: Tiger, Goat, or Dog

Goat: Rabbit, Horse, Goat, or Pig

Monkey: Rat, Dragon, or Dog

Rooster: Ox, Dragon, or Snake

Dog: Tiger, Rabbit, Horse, or Monkey

Pig: Tiger, Rabbit, or Goat

Rat

OX

Tiger

Rabbit

Dragon

Snake

Horse

Goat

Monkey

Rooster

Dog

Pig

Rats' Horoscope in 2023:

Entering 2023, the fortune of you Rat people is generally good, but due to being in tangential opposition to Tai Sui (the age star), you will encounter some obstacles and your overall horoscope will be one of ups and downs. Be cautious and not impulsive in your actions during this year.

Read more on Monthly Horoscope for Rats in 2023.

Rat and Ox got up very early. On the way to the Gate, Rat jumped onto the back of the Ox to cross the river. He won first place by suddenly jumping down from Ox's back and dashed to the feet of the Emperor when they're near to the Heavenly Gate. Ox was second.

Tiger and Rabbit came third and fourth because both are fast and competitive, butTiger was faster.

Good-looking Dragon was fifth and was immediately noticed by the Jade Emperor, who said Dragon's son could be sixth. Just then, Snake came forward and said Dragon was his adoptive father; so Snake ranked sixth.

Horse and Goat arrived. They were very kind and modest and each let the other go first. They were ranked seventh and eighth.

Monkey had fallen well behind. But he jumped between trees and stones, and caught up to be ninth. Last were Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

What is the luckiest/unluckiest Chinese zodiac sign?

In Chinese culture, the top 5 luckiest/most popular zodiac signs are Dragon, Snake, Pig, Rat, and Tiger conventionally.

There is a popular Chinese folk saying that 9/10 Goats are inadequate (十羊九不全 '10 Goats 9 incomplete'), which implies that most people born in a year of the Goat are destined for bad luck. Most Chinese people also believe that people born in a Goat year will grow up to be followers rather than leaders. Although this is an outdated superstition, it has a real effect on Chinese society.

Conversely, the Dragon is the most coveted zodiac sign, with Chinese births peaking in Dragon years.

Rationally, it's hard to identify the luckiest or unluckiest zodiac signs, as each sign has its own advantages and disadvantages. Socially, different combinations of zodiac signs cause different relational dynamics, which may affect someone's life more, as we don't live in isolation.

What are the differences between Chinese zodiac and western astrology?

The main similarity between the two systems is that both systems are based on time periods of birth, and they both have 12 symbols or signs with associated personalities and fortunes.

However, there are big differences in their origins and astrological theory.

With the Chinese zodiac, the 12 signs are derived from the ancients' musings about archetypal animals, people's personalities and fortunes, and their relationships with one another and years of birth. A myth about a celestial race was later developed to explain the Chinese zodiac sequence.

This differs from Western astrology, where the 12 zodiac signs are based on constellations' positions relative to the earth. The constellations were named according to Greek mythology and astrological theory was developed based on the stars supposed influence on human personalities and lives.

In addition, the Chinese zodiac is calculated on a year-by-year base while the Western zodiac corresponds with " months".

Read more on Differences between the Chinese Zodiac and Western Astrology.

The 12 Japanese zodiac animals in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar.

The 12 Vietnamese zodiac animals in order are: Rat, Buffalo, Tiger, Cat, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

The 12 Thai zodiac animals in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Naga (a mythical half-human-half-snake spirit), Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

The 8 Burmese zodiac animals are: Garuda (a mythical bird), Tiger, Lion, Elephant (with tusks), Rat, Guinea Pig, and Dragon.

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The 12 Chinese Zodiac signs in order are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig. Check what your zodiac sign is.

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Find and share a recipe for a traditional Chinese birthday food item. Include its cultural significance.

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You need to create a digital zodiac card with characteristics and lucky elements for each sign. Share and discuss in the class.

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https://thewoksoflife.com/chinese-birthday-traditions/

You will likely get more than one answer. For example: The person being asked might say something like, my nominal age (虚岁 – xūsuì) is 63, but my real age (实岁 – shí suì) is 61.

Confused? Here’s how they work:

Your real age (实岁, shí suì) is based on your birthday, as in Western culture. You’re 1 year old on your first birthday, and another year old on subsequent birthdays.

Your nominal age (虚岁, xūsuì) is based on Chinese tradition. You are 1 year old on the day you are born, and on the very next Chinese New Year, you are another year old. This is why some people might have a 2-year gap between the two ages.

Also, in China, people may still have the habit of following the lunisolar calendar, instead of the Gregorian calendar. In these cases, birthdays vary yearly. For example, Chinese New Year Day changes year to year on the Gregorian calendar, but it’s always the first day of the first lunar month on the lunisolar calendar.

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Let’s talk about Chinese birthday traditions—old wives’ tales, fun facts, and some practical tips for navigating Chinese birthday customs.

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Students will learn and use birthday-related vocabulary and expressions in Mandarin (生日快乐, 长命百岁, etc.)