Upper School Intensive Learning Spotlight: China

Upper School students enjoyed a week of sightseeing and adventure, while learning about Chinese culture and gaining hands-on experience with historical and archaeological pieces, during a trip to China during Intensive Learning. 

The trip started in Taiwan with a guided tour of Shifen Waterfall – which many compare to Niagara Falls – for a hike and breathtaking views. 

The group then took a flight to Beijing to walk a portion of the Great Wall of China – one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Here, students were able to take in the beauty of the mountains while walking up the ramps and stairs. Some even earned medals for reaching the top of the Great Wall and climbing the tallest and steepest staircases! 

Following their day trip to Beijing, students were able to get hands-on experience with a current archaeological dig taking place in Xi’an. 

Each day incorporated equal parts of fun and historical exploration with other activities including visits to museums, noodle making, tai chi instruction – all while tasting the many varieties and specialties of Chinese cuisine every day.

You can read more about this experience at the 2024 MFS Intensive Learning blog, where you can also read about all other Intensive Learning trips and experiences. 

View photos of the 2024 Upper School Chine Intensive Learning trip here.

This is one in a series of 2024 Intensive Learning Spotlights. For one week each March, regular classes are suspended for “Intensive Learning,” when Middle and Upper School students and teachers engage in an in-depth study of a specific subject, often involving off-campus research. This long-standing MFS tradition – which dates back to the mid 1970s – allows teachers and students to break out of the structure of formal class periods and traditional study for a time of experiential learning. Both students and teachers are encouraged to view themselves as life-long learners and students of the world around them.