Explore Japan

The program provides an opportunity for Grade 10 students in the greater Edmonton area who start Japanese Language program to explore Japanese culture at first hand. Through a variety of activities facilitated by Japanese community members, the program will enhance the understanding of Japanese culture by the Edmonton youth and promote friendship between Japan and Canada. High school Japanese programs will greatly benefit by participating in the event.

Topics	Japanese Modern Life A University student who lived in Japan as an exchange student discusses his/her experience in Japan using slide pictures. He/she will talk about modern Japan, technology, and life styles particularly of young people. Tea Ceremony and Flower Arrangements In a room with tearoom settings and flower arrangements, students will learn about flower arrangements and a tea ceremony. Students watch the tea ceremony. Then, Japanese sweets and tea will be served to all. Calligraphy After introducing professional calligraphies displayed on the wall, the presenters explain calligraphy and tools. Students practice a few kanji and own name using samples. Kimono and Origami All students will try on Yukata (casual summer Kimono). Two spots with Japanese shoji screens and cherry blossom trees are set for photo shooting. Traditional Japanese music will be played as background sound. At the origami workshop, students will learn details of origami arts through samples, then, they will practice own origami. Karate and Taiko workshop Taiko workshop: Presenters explain about Taiko, then, demonstrate key techniques. All students will have a turn for drumming a Taiko. Karate workshop: Instructors guide students into the "Karate world" including trials. Both Taiko and Karate demonstrate the Japanese way of behavior, i.e. politeness, concentration, and respect. Students will be introduced to these values while they enjoy practicing Taiko and Karate
Dates and Times	November 1 and November 2, 2011. It is a one-day program. The same program will be repeated on these days.
Place	The Institute of Innovation in Second Language Education (iisle) at Woodcroft School, 13750 Woodcroft Avenue, Edmonton
Organizing Committee Members	Edmonton Japanese Community Association, Culture Programs Committee Alberta Education/Japan Foundation Institute for Innovation in Second Language Education at Edmonton Public Schools Alberta Japanese Teachers Association