1.
Select the terms or phrases that are related to Tet.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Fireworks
B. Spring festival
E. Visiting temples
Explanation
The terms "Fireworks," "Spring festival," and "Visiting temples" are related to Tet. Tet is the Vietnamese New Year and is celebrated with various traditions and customs. Fireworks are commonly used to celebrate the occasion, symbolizing the start of a new year with joy and prosperity. The Spring festival is another name for Tet, as it marks the arrival of spring and new beginnings. Visiting temples is a common practice during Tet, where people pay their respects to ancestors and seek blessings for the coming year.
2.
One of the traditions for Tet is for adults to hand out li xi (lucky money) to children. What is the meaning behind it?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above is correct.
Explanation
The tradition of handing out li xi (lucky money) to children during Tet has multiple meanings. Firstly, it is believed to bring good fortune to the children and their families for the coming year. Secondly, it is seen as a way to wish the children good health and success in their lives. Lastly, it is a way to welcome the new age of the kids as they grow older. All of these meanings are correct in relation to the tradition of giving li xi during Tet.
3.
Five fruits used for offerings include soursop, coconut, papaya, fig, and mango.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because it states that five fruits (soursop, coconut, papaya, fig, and mango) are used for offerings.
4.
What flowers are popular across South Vietnam during Tet?
Correct Answer
B. Ochna integerrima
Explanation
Ochna integerrima is a popular flower during Tet in South Vietnam. It is also known as the Vietnamese Mickey Mouse plant or the Hoa Mai flower. This flower is highly valued for its bright yellow color and delicate beauty. It is often used to decorate homes and public spaces during the Tet holiday, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. The Ochna integerrima is an important part of the Tet celebrations and is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture.
5.
Why do people remind you not to sweep the house on New Year's Day?
Correct Answer
C. You sweep the good luck away.
Explanation
The correct answer is "You sweep the good luck away." On New Year's Day, there is a belief in some cultures that sweeping the house will sweep away the good luck and fortune that has entered the home. Therefore, people remind others not to sweep the house on this day to ensure that the good luck stays.
6.
What games are favored to play on this holiday?
Correct Answer
A. Chess games
Explanation
Chess games are favored to play on this holiday because chess is a popular and strategic game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It requires critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and strategic planning, making it an engaging and mentally stimulating activity. Additionally, chess can be played indoors or outdoors, making it suitable for different holiday settings.
7.
What tradition is known for scaring away the evil spirits?
Correct Answer
D. Lion dancing
Explanation
Lion dancing is known for scaring away evil spirits. This tradition involves performers dressed as lions who dance and mimic the movements of a lion. It is believed that the loud drums, cymbals, and firecrackers used during lion dancing can ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. The energetic and lively performance is often seen during Chinese New Year and other festive occasions to bring blessings and drive away negativity.
8.
Which dish is only eaten during Tet?
Correct Answer
A. Pickled onion and pickled cabbage
Explanation
During Tet, a traditional Vietnamese holiday, pickled onion and pickled cabbage are commonly eaten. This dish is a popular part of the Tet feast and is enjoyed by many during this special time of year. It is a unique and flavorful dish that adds a tangy and refreshing element to the traditional Tet meal.
9.
The Kitchen God is responsible for flying back to heaven to give his annual report of the family members to the Jade Emperor.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In Chinese mythology, the Kitchen God is believed to be the deity who watches over the household and the family members. It is said that he flies back to heaven once a year to report on the behavior and actions of the family to the Jade Emperor. This annual report is considered important as it determines the family's fortune and blessings for the upcoming year. Therefore, the statement that the Kitchen God is responsible for flying back to heaven to give his annual report of the family members to the Jade Emperor is true.
10.
What color should you wear to represent good luck?
Correct Answer
B. Red
Explanation
Red is traditionally associated with good luck in many cultures, particularly in East Asian countries such as China. It is believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and ward off evil spirits. Red is often worn during festive occasions and celebrations, such as Chinese New Year, weddings, and other important events. The vibrant and bold nature of the color is seen as auspicious and is believed to attract positive energy and fortune.