This week, Year 9 Japanese students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese language and culture. Students from the College visited the Nihongo Tanken Centre (Japanese Experience Centre), a purpose-built Japanese-style building, in the grounds of Kirrawee High School, featuring tatami rooms, paper sliding doors and a traditional Japanese garden.
Mieko Sensei and Frank Sensei started the visit by explaining and demonstrating the etiquette of entering and moving about in a Japanese house, using only Japanese. Working in 4 groups representing the 4 seasons, the slipper-clad students participated in games to enhance their understanding of the language they have been learning at College and test their knowledge of the hiragana and katakana writing systems. A short break for morning tea enabled students to taste some Japanese rice crackers and discover more features of the interior of the building. Unfortunately students could not fully explore the Japanese garden due to inclement weather, but huddled on a patio in the cold to eat a bento lunch before bringing all the day’s activities together in a final quiz.
Mieko and Frank spoke only Japanese all day, challenging our students to grow in their listening and speaking skills. Well done Year 9 Japanese and thank you to the Nihongo Tanken Centre for a wonderful excursion.
Mrs Fiona Byrne
Languages Coordinator & Year 9 Advisor
