Research Process - Sky Lanterns (04 Jan 2012)

Sky lanterns were originally designed for use by the military in Ancient China for signalling.

Due to increasing popularity Chinese Sky Lanterns are being sold in Europe and advertised on TV.

I wonder if these can be added in as a motif to teach the characters. Certainly the symbolism of the colours of the lanterns is important. Lanterns are sent into the sky during celebrations each New Year in China.

ie.
Red lantern - for celebrations and represents good luck
Orange lantern - sacred colour/strengthens concentration
Blue lantern - immortality and peace / birth of a boy
Yellow lantern - signifies freedom and good luck
Green lantern - growth/prosperity
Pink lantern - love/trust / birth of a girl
White lantern - mourning

http://www.chineselantern.co.uk

http://www.skyorbs.co.uk/contact-form.php

The traditional diamond shape is known as 'Kongming' by China.
The traditional cylindrical shape is known as 'Khoom Fay' by Thailand.

Terms:
Chinese Lantern
Sky Lantern
Khoom Fay Lantern

Famous Lantern festival:
Yuanxiao or Shangyuan festival

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lantern_Festival
Children go out to carry the lanterns and solve riddles on the lanterns. 'cāidēngmí'It officially ends the Chinese New Year celebrations.

The riddles often contain messages of good fortune, family reunion, abundant harvest, prosperity and love.

Dengshikou was a place in Beijing where lanterns were sold, lit and displayed.
Deng means Lantern and shi means market.

The most eye catching lantern is called the Dragon Pole.

http://www.lantern-festival.com/