Chinese language students from across the region will put their skills to the test – and
maybe even break into song – March 11 at McMaster.

The annual Chinese Bridge language proficiency competition gives area students the
opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of Mandarin in front of a panel of judges,
who rate them not only on their speaking skills but also on their understanding of
Chinese culture. According to Angela Sheng, director of McMaster's Confucius Institute,
spectators will be surprised at how much the students have learned, even if they've
only been studying for a short time.

“They're all very bright and enthusiastic. It's amazing what they can accomplish with
their studies,” she said.

The competition also includes a showcase of Chinese-themed talent. In the past,
students have put on karate demonstrations and sang pop and hip hop songs popular
in China.

The winner of the competition, which runs from 1 to 4 p.m. in Council Chambers,
could win a trip to Beijing.