Before travelling to a new place, it can be important to prepare by researching the culture and learning some useful phrases in the country’s native language.
The following Irish short film, Yu Ming is ainm dom, is about a young Chinese man, Yu Ming, who travels to Ireland and tries to overcome the language barrier by learning the language.
1. When Yu Ming spins the globe, where does his finger land? 2. What book does Yu Ming rent from the library in preparation for his journey? 3. What saying does Yu Ming repeat to himself in the mirror? 4. What mode of transport does Yu Ming take from the airport to the city centre? 5. What is the confusion when Yu Ming tries to check in to Isaac’s hostel? 6. What does Yu Ming ask for when he enters the pub? 7. What does Paddy explain to Yu Ming about the language barrier he is facing in Ireland? 8. How long did Yu Ming spend learning Irish? 9. Where does Yu Ming end up working at the end of the short film?
Explore
1. In small groups, discuss what you think the message behind this short film is. Write a list of other preparations Yu Ming could have made before deciding to move to Ireland.
2. In your opinion, do you think Yu Ming is lonely during his trip to Ireland? Give two reasons for your answer.
3. In your opinion, would you say this film has a happy ending? Give two reasons for your answer.
Create Imagine you are Yu Ming. Write an email home after your first day in Ireland.
