Exploring Ancient Chinese Journals

Lynn, a young girl in Beijing, shares her experiences celebrating the Chinese New Year in 1424. She discusses her family's traditions, including offerings to ancestors and the significance of Confucius, Laozi, and Buddha's teachings. Lynn also highlights Chinese inventions like silk, porcelain, paper, and the compass, and explains the origins of Kung Fu and gunpowder. She reflects on her pride in Chinese culture and looks forward to future discoveries.

What are the three types of offerings Lin's family gives to their ancestors?

• Plums, peonies, and lotus blossoms

• Bananas, sunflowers, and orchids

• Apples, roses, and lilies

• Oranges, tulips, and daisies

According to Confucius, what is essential for peace and happiness?

• Technological advancements

• Wealth and prosperity

• A strong military

• A good and honorable government

What does the yin and yang symbol represent?

• The importance of wealth

• The power of the government

• The balance of opposites in nature

• The strength of the military

What did the Buddha teach was the cause of all unhappiness?

• Poor health

• Bad weather

• Desire or wanting things

• Lack of education

What is the primary purpose of kung-fu according to the Shaolin monks?

• To gain wealth

• To preserve peace by being strong

• To start fights

• To entertain people

Who is credited with discovering how to make silk?

• A skilled warrior

• A woman

• A wise monk

• A famous emperor

What is porcelain made from?

• Bronze

• Fine white clay

• Silver

• Gold

What is the purpose of the mould board in the cast iron plow?

• To harvest the crops

• To turn the dirt with less effort

• To plant seeds

• To water the crops

What was the original use of the compass in China?

• To navigate ships

• To align buildings properly

• To find hidden treasures

• To measure time

What was gunpowder originally invented for?

• To create fireworks

• To turn things into gold

• To make weapons

• To build houses