21-page PDF
KS1, KS2
Years 1-6
Bring the excitement of Chinese New Year into your classroom with this special Chinese New Year animals topical pack.
This resource is perfect if you’re looking to introduce pupils to the rich traditions of this vibrant celebration.
The pack begins with an informative fact sheet that explains the importance of Chinese New Year, the ways it is celebrated, and the fascinating world of the Chinese Zodiac.
Pupils will discover the 12 Chinese New Year animals, learning about the personality traits associated with each one and how they represent different years.
Great Race
To bring the story of the Zodiac to life, the pack includes an activity based on the famous tale of the Great Race, where pupils can explore how the 12 animals earned their place in the Zodiac calendar.
An engaging fact-finding activity encourages pupils to investigate which Chinese New Year animal represents the year they were born.
This interactive element adds a personal touch, as pupils compare their animal traits with those of their classmates.
Chinese New Year animals colouring
Younger pupils will enjoy colourful and imaginative colouring sheets featuring Chinese New Year animals. They can also try copying out the names of the animals.
Chinese lanterns and tangrams
Older pupils can delve into a creative hands-on project by making traditional Chinese lanterns.
For an added challenge, the pack includes a tangram puzzle activity inspired by Chinese traditions, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Chinese New Year animals and their meanings
- Snake: Patient, charming and wise. Very independent.
- Horse: Warm-hearted, enthusiastic and positive.
- Sheep/goat: Well-mannered, friendly and sympathetic.
- Monkey: Witty and intelligent, mischievous, curious, clever and sometimes naughty.
- Rooster: Observant, resourceful and courageous.
- Dog: Loyal and honest, amiable and kind, cautious and careful.
- Pig: Diligent, easy to trust, compassionate and responsible.
- Rat: Ambitious and intelligent, hard-working and imaginative. Loyal to their friends.
- Ox: Born leaders who work hard. Loyal to their friends.
- Tiger: Warm and generous, confident and adventurous.
- Rabbit: Affectionate, gentle and caring. Hates arguments.
- Dragon: Confident and hard-working. Loyal to friends and fun.
Busy Things offers a huge collection of interactive, curriculum-linked games and activities. Discover 1600+ games and activities to develop and support maths, literacy, phonics, science, art, music, coding and more. Browse lots more Chinese New Year activities.
