Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is one of the all-important Chinese holidays! Most Chinese people go home to celebrate this day together with family. The Chinese New Year is also known as the Spring Festival. The celebration starts well with paying off debts, a clean house and new clothes. The Chinese New Year is full of fireworks, dragon and lion dances.

The Chinese New Year begins every year between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20. If you are going to travel, during this period then it is helpful to make reservations because it can be crowded. All people in China have time off then.

The Chinese zodiac

Instead of months, the Chinese zodiac is based on the year of birth. Each year is related to an animal sign according to a 12-year cycle. The 12 animals are in order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

Why are the animals in this order? According to a myth, the Jade Emperor said that the order is the order of arrival at the Jade Emperor's feast. The Ox had left the night before and would be first. The Tiger would arrive early the next morning and be second. The Rat had sneaked up on the Os and jumped off the Os when he caught sight of the Jade Emperor. This put the Ox and Tiger in second and third place. The fourth to arrive was the Rabbit, who is named as “proud - even a tad arrogant - of his speed. When the Rabbit arrived at the party, no one was there yet, so he decided to take a nap and came in fourth.

In 2024-2025, it is the year of the Wooden Dragon! The Dragon is known as a powerful symbol in Chinese culture. It is the only mythical animal in the Chinese zodiac and is often associated with luck, power and charisma. Wood represents nature, growth, expansion and renewal. Combined with the Dragon, which stands for strength and vitality. This may start to be a year of development. Progress with new initiatives, start-ups, technological innovations and sustainability innovations. It is the year of action! This applies specifically to the Dragon. You are Dragon if you were born in 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012 or you will be born next year.

In 2025-2026, it is the year of the Wooden Serpent! The Serpent is known to be mysterious and subtle. The Serpent brings an elegant and sophisticated influence. The Serpent is known for wisdom, knowledge, intelligence, intuition and creativity. Snakes are also characterized by luck, abundance, fertility and long life. Snakes shed their skin and renew themselves, representing rebirth and transformation. Snakes are also known for their negatives such as deception, jealousy and temptation. Snakes are enemies of the Dragon and Tiger. Snakes can be poisonous and their bite can lead to death. You are Snake if you were born in: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 and 2025. The 2025 Wooden Snake is charming, intelligent and creative, as well as secretive and sometimes reckless. The year of the Wooden Serpent is going to be a year full of potential, innovation and possibilities. Use the positive sides of the Serpent, wisdom and intuition. 

Here are some tips on how to check the quality of your academic writing, tailored to different levels of experience:

Beginners:

• Focus on the basics: Ensure your writing is clear, concise, and grammatically correct. Use simple sentence structures and precise vocabulary.
• Check content relevance: Ensure your research question is well-formulated, specific, and neutral and that your research question directly addresses the context or problem you are investigating. Break it down into logical sub-questions and provide clear, well-supported answers based on your research.
• Structure and organization: Use a simple structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each paragraph should focus on a single point supporting your main argument.
• Use resources: Take advantage of writing centers, style guides, and online tools like grammar checkers and plagiarism checkers.
• Seek feedback: Ask your instructor, classmates, or tutors for feedback on your writing.

Intermediate:

• Deepen your analysis: Go beyond simply restating information. Critically analyze your research, discuss opposing viewpoints, and offer your own insights and interpretations.
• Refine your style: Use more varied sentence structures and sophisticated vocabulary, while maintaining clarity and formality.
• Cite accurately: Pay close attention to citation formats and ensure your sources are credible and relevant.
• Focus on transitions: Use transition words and phrases to show how your ideas connect logically.
• Evaluate arguments: Assess your own work and the work of others. Are the arguments well-supported and convincing?

Advanced:

• Develop your unique voice: Strive to present your own original arguments and perspectives, drawing on your research and expertise.
• Tailor your writing: Adapt your style and approach to the specific audience and publication.
• Evaluate impact: Consider the potential impact and implications of your work. What contribution does it make to the field?
• Seek expert feedback: Consult with colleagues, editors, or other experts in your field for in-depth feedback and suggestions.
• Stay updated: Continue to learn and improve by reading widely, attending workshops, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and writing trends in your field.

Additional Tips:

• Proofread meticulously: No matter your level, careful proofreading for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting errors is crucial.
• Take breaks: Step away from your writing regularly to return with fresh eyes and maintain objectivity.
• Practice regularly: Consistent writing practice helps you develop your skills and identify areas for improvement.
• Enjoy the process: Learning to write well is a journey, not a destination. Find ways to make writing enjoyable and engage with your subjects with curiosity and passion.

By adapting these strategies to your level of experience and utilizing available resources, you can confidently assess and improve the quality of your academic writing at any stage of your development.