My name is Joanne Hou-Graves. Welcome to my Chinese classes. I have been teaching Chinese for over 8 years. This is my 4th year teaching PK-8th grade in Saint Sebastian school. This is my 9th year teaching 1st grade students in Westside Chinese school. I also private tutor students ( one on one, one on two...small groups) for many years. I learned a lot teaching skills through my teaching experiences. This year, Our goal is using 90% Chinese in the classroom, and focus on students can use their Chinese language apply to their daily life.
I was born and grow up in Shanghai, China. I graduated in Shanghai University of International Business and Economics (Shanghai Institute of Foreign Trade). It was my great interest to learn English and American culture then, now I can use my knowledge to teaching Chinese and communicate with my students. I believe communication is huge part of our life. Since 2008, I have been attend Southern California Council of Chinese School training twice a year. I was proud to be one of the speaker of Southern California Council of Chinese School in 2012. I also took Loyola Marymount University teacher training course in 2010 and other two StarTalk teacher training in 2014 and 2015.
I believe catching students learning interest is very important part of teaching. I am all for using modern technology teaching as well as traditional way teaching. My believe is if students having fun learning and they will want learn on their own. My favorite quote from Ignacio Estrada is "If a child can not learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn."