Programs
Greater Philadelphia Cantonese Academy
Curriculum and Learning Objectives by Class
Students are placed into one of four virtual classes—Rabbit, Dolphin, Panda or Leopard—based on Cantonese proficiency.
Class placement may vary between the core curriculum and the conversational/cultural tracks to best support each student’s learning needs. Placement decisions are made through teacher evaluations and parent input, with the Principal making the final determination when necessary.
An entry level and foundational building class to introduce students to the following:
To learn the fundamental and common Cantonese expressions, including basic concepts in shapes, numbers, colors, calendar, foods, greetings, and other areas
To gain simple command of Cantonese and apply it in daily life
To practice writing and speaking simple words
To learn through singing, listening, practicing and other fun activities
To expose students to Chinese cultures and customs
To cultivate respect and tolerance classmates, teacher, and others around you
A next level class progressed to learn the integration of basic Cantonese words and expressions via the following:
To expose and learn word structure, character strokes and sequence in writing
To understand and apply more complex words and expressions in everyday life
To learn and accept Cantonese as it relates to their family life, local community, U.S. and other parts of the world and to open students the door of many possibilities
To help establish functional conversational, listening and writing skills
To learn through singing and other activities
To continue to reinforce Chinese cultures and customs
An intermediate class to further their learning and understanding of Cantonese in everyday life via the following:
To continue building on more complex sentences and expressions
To understand abstract concepts in Cantonese
To focus on expanding speaking, writing and communication skills and apply them in everyday life
To expose to global landmarks, travel destinations, cultural foods and other interesting activities in Cantonese
To continue to reinforce Chinese cultures and customs
A more advanced level to master the Cantonese dialect while beginning the introduction to Mandarin through the following:
To recognize Chinese characters, understand and speak Cantonese in daily situations at a more fluent level
To actively engage the class in conversational lessons
To continue to reinforce writing skills
To learn basic Pingyin system and simple Mandarin in preparation for future Mandarin classes in high school and college
To introduce Chinese history and poems for greater appreciation in their ancestry and culture
Our virtual classes are designed to provide an engaging, interactive, and structured learning experience in a convenient online format. Classes are conducted via Zoom and typically follow this structure:
Schedule and Duration
Frequency: every Saturday
Duration: 2 ½ hours from 9:30am to 12:00pm (ET)
Platform: Zoom–a link will be provided in advance
Welcome & Check-In
(15 minutes)
Attendance
Quick warm-up or review from the previous session
Lesson Delivery
(30–45 minutes)
New content introduction using slides, visuals, or demonstrations
Real-time interaction encouraged through chat or microphone
Student Participation
(30–45 minutes)
Group discussion, Q&A or hands-on practice
Use of digital tools like shared whiteboards or learning slides
There is a 15 minute break at 10:30am (or more breaks at discretion of the teacher)
Wrap-Up & Assignment
(10-15 minutes)
Summary of key points
Preview of next class
Assignment or practice activities posted on the class platform
Required: Device with internet access, webcam, microphone, paper, pencils/markers
Optional: Headphones, notebook, text book/printed handouts (if provided)
Expectations
Join on time with camera on
Be prepared and actively participate
Respectful online behavior is expected at all times
Submit completed homework to teacher/principal by Friday evening before Saturday class
Student Conduct and Parental Support Guidelines
This policy outlines behavioral expectations for students and the supportive role of parents/guardians in the virtual Chinese school environment.
Our goal is to foster respectful, engaged, and culturally enriching online learning experiences that reflect the values of our school community.
We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a respectful and productive virtual learning experience that reflects our school's values of respect, responsibility, and commitment to Chinese language and culture.
For questions, please contact your teacher, Principal, or Administrator of GPCA.
I. Student Conduct Expectations
Students participating in the virtual Chinese school program are expected to:
Be Punctual and Prepared
Log in on time and be ready to learn with appropriate materials (textbooks, notebooks, pens).
Dress appropriately, as you would for an in-person class.
Stay Engaged and Participate
Pay attention during class, respond to teacher prompts, and participate in speaking and reading exercises.
Keep video on and audio unmuted when asked, unless instructed otherwise by the teacher.
Use Respectful Language and Behavior
Use polite language when speaking or chatting in class.
Listen respectfully when others are speaking and avoid interrupting.
Follow Online Classroom Etiquette
Use school-approved platforms responsibly.
Use your real name as your screen name.
No eating, lying in bed, or multitasking during class.
Uphold Academic Honesty
Complete your own assignments and homework without copying.
Ask questions when you need help instead of relying on others to answer for you.
II. Parental/Guardian Support Expectations
Parents/guardians are vital partners in student success. We ask that families support the virtual program in the following ways:
Ensure Student Attendance and Focus
Help students log in on time and stay for the full class session.
Minimize background noise and distractions during class time.
Create a Positive Learning Environment
Provide a quiet, well-lit learning space with access to required materials.
Ensure students have stable internet access and functioning devices.
Encourage Independence and Responsibility
Allow your child to participate independently without sitting next to them unless necessary.
Let the teacher lead instruction and correct behavior when needed.
Maintain Respectful Communication
Communicate with teachers respectfully and address questions or concerns outside of class time.
Read school announcements and class updates regularly.
Respect Class Privacy
Do not record or photograph virtual classes.
Do not share Zoom links or classroom content outside the school.