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Language and Culture for the Early Years
- A Japanese Experience -
Japan is a country of long history and rich traditions. A study of Japanese Culture is essential to the understanding of the Japanese people and the Japanese language and literature.
It is planned to base the study of Japanese language and literature in Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 around the many festivals and events which take place throughout the year in Japan.
During Term 1, we celebrated the season of Spring with emphasis on the Cherry Blossom season, and Hinamatsuri, the Festival of Dolls, or Girl’s Day. These themes formed the basis of the Japanese lessons. Songs, stories, dance and art were incorporated in an integrated programme.
It is also important to incorporate topics which are relevant to the learning experiences in the classroom. A strong emphasis on the Family will form a linkage, with vocabulary to cover family members and the events and festivals in the life of a new born child in Japan. Other topics will be incorporated where appropriate.
Throughout the programme the children will be encouraged to note the similarities and differences between their own lives and culture and that of the Japanese.
It is envisaged that Prep will learn by listening, speaking, singing experiences, acting situations and art. In addition Year 1 will be able to recognise Romaji, and Year 2 will be able to practise a little writing of Japanese characters.
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