Japanese Language
Introduction
Our Japanese language program is based on the school's educational philosophy of fostering understanding (compassion) for others while acknowledging one's own existence through the study of Japanese as a communication skill. The program is implemented in collaboration with our English program in terms of objectives and standards.
In addition, the Japanese Language Program aims to foster a lifelong love of language and literature, and includes communication, communicative expression, and understanding of others using the Japanese language. In addition to traditional teaching methods, the program aims to foster in students a passion for reading comprehension, writing, communication skills, and critical thinking.
Learning Standard 1: Integrated Language Development
Our language curriculum emphasises a natural and comprehensive approach to language development, including the four skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
In addition, we also include some learning related to the Courses of Study descriptions.
We believe that effective communication is the cornerstone of success in all aspects of life and that effectiveness can only be achieved in an organic, anxiety-free environment.
Learning Standard 2: A Solid Foundation
Approximately 90% of the students who enrol at our school have Japanese as their native language. The remaining 10% have different starting points due to various backgrounds (origin and family environment). Some children have lived overseas, some have attended international kindergarten in Japan, and some were born and raised in Japan. Therefore, we focus on language acquisition and core skills such as listening to short sentences, reading aloud, hiragana, katakana, kanji, and other reading, spelling, writing activities, and basic communication to build a strong foundation of Japanese language skills in the early childhood years.
Learning Standard 3: Language Fluency
Our Japanese language program focuses on developing fluency in both written and spoken Japanese. Through engaging activities, interactive discussions, and project-based learning focused on real-world applications, students develop the confidence to express themselves eloquently, persuasively, and creatively.
Learning Standard 4: Critical Thinking and Analysis
Students develop critical thinking skills by encouraging them to question, evaluate, and interpret a variety of information. Our curriculum develops analytical skills that enable students to identify biases, analyse arguments, and articulate informed opinions.
Learning Standard 5: Global Citizenship
A caring spirit of respect for diversity and an aspiration to leave a good society for future generations.
Our Japanese language curriculum incorporates a global perspective and encourages students to embrace cultural diversity, respect different viewpoints, and become caring global citizens. We study the inherited and well-known literary works of Japan as well as works of literature from around the world, encouraging students to become active participants in shaping a more inclusive and interconnected world.
Learning Standard 6: Integrated Technology Use
The school utilises technology as a powerful tool to enhance the learning experience. We use practice books and digital character practice for character practice, and in the upper grades, we utilise Google Docs and slides for essay writing and digital submission of assignments. Our Japanese curriculum also utilises and integrates technology as appropriate, allowing students to navigate the digital world with confidence and responsibility. Our teachers utilise a variety of educational technologies to help make their classes engaging, informative, and dynamic.
Learning Standard 7: Passionate Educators
Our Japanese language curriculum is delivered by a team of passionate and experienced educators. Their expertise and dedication create an environment in which students can grow academically, creatively, and spiritually.
Curriculum
Our Japanese language curriculum is based on the Ministry of Education's Courses of Study for Elementary and Secondary Schools, and also incorporates language-related studies that are considered and required by experts in their respective fields, such as Japanese language specialists, elementary and early childhood education specialists, writers, translators, and broadcasters.
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The purpose of using these standards in our curriculum is to provide students with the opportunity to learn about Japan and Japanese culture through the use of the Hyakunin Isshu, haiku, and literary works. In an integrated manner, we also integrate subject content and language instruction to provide students with knowledge of various subjects, such as moral content, science, social studies, geography, and history, through the medium of the Japanese language. Students also gain a practical understanding of the Japanese language by taking classes taught by Japanese speakers, such as physical education, arts and crafts, and music.
The two objectives of this curriculum:
1. to develop identity (self-identification and understanding of others) by receiving the next level of education in an environment as their native language
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2. to focus on skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, and analytical skills to help students develop the mindset and thinking that will enable them to succeed globally.