A New Chapter in Language Learning: Brentwood Introduces AP Chinese
As May rolls around, AP season is officially underway. With it comes exciting news: Brentwood’s language program is reaching new heights with the upcoming launch of AP Chinese Language and Culture. Though the course officially begins next year, a group of ambitious students are already preparing for the exam - independently.
Currently, Brentwood offers three levels of Mandarin: Beginner’s Mandarin, Mandarin 10, and Mandarin 11/12. AP Chinese will soon crown the curriculum, capping off a program rooted in immersive, communicative learning. During classes, Mandarin is the main language of instruction, supported by visual aids, gestures, and real-world context to ensure deep engagement.
But learning at Brentwood doesn’t stop in the classroom. Students bring Mandarin to life through cultural experiences—writing spring couplets for Lunar New Year, rowing dragon boats, and making bubble tea and mooncakes from scratch. These hands-on moments create lasting memories and meaningful connections to Chinese heritage.
“It’s more than a class - it’s been an unbelievable life experience,” reflects Michael Q, Ellis ’26, after a cultural field trip to Victoria’s Chinatown for a traditional Cantonese meal.
Though the AP course hasn’t yet started, students like Ambrose W, Whittall ’26, are studying with support from Ms Yang: “She’s given us practice exams, questions, and all the study material we need on Google Classroom. Even though we’re studying on our own, she’s set us up for success—and I’m grateful.”
Ms Yang’s vision is clear: prepare students for the AP exam while fostering a deeper appreciation of language and culture. “Our approach with Mandarin goes beyond textbooks and grammar drills,” she explains. “My goal is to inspire students not only to achieve academic success but also to develop a genuine appreciation for the language and the rich cultures that come with it.” This trio - learning, living, and loving the language—is what makes Brentwood’s Mandarin program so distinctive.
Much like Marco Polo venturing into the East to discover new worlds, Brentwood students are embarking on a linguistic journey - one that broadens horizons, bridges cultures, and breaks barriers.
As student interest grows, and with AP Chinese on the horizon, the future of Mandarin at Brentwood looks brighter than ever. This year’s early AP test takers are not just preparing for an exam, they’re writing the first lines of a bold new chapter in Brentwood’s language journey.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Ms Yang, whose dedication has inspired students to aim higher, not only academically, but culturally as well. She teaches with passion, she leads with purpose, and she inspires with heart. Language plays such a vital role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow, and her impact is already being felt.
William L, Ellis ‘26