Research indicates that mathematical understanding before formal schooling influences later attainment. This study investigated the mathematical activities of preschool-aged children in Japan, a neglected topic despite the high mathematical attainment of Japanese children. Preschool activities were investigated using surveys, observations, and…

The current study focuses on an e-learning platform called Furago designed to provide language instructors with exercises complementing activities already implemented in their classes. Its objective was to assess the impact the use of Furago could have on the listening skills of first-year Japanese university students. Statistical analyses that…

Given California's role in the Pacific economy, its historic Asian heritage, and the strong and growing presence of Asian communities and businesses in the state, it is imperative that students statewide understand the history of Asia. Unfortunately, the California state curricular framework and standards in history and social science limit the…

Presents a secondary education geography lesson plan for teaching the theme of place and relative location. Provides samples of student materials. Using Japan as an example, shows how place and relative location can be used to study a country. (KO)

Seventeen instructional units on Asian and Pacific culture, society, and economic life are provided in this handbook, the result of a workshop entitled "Pacific Rim Cultures in the Classroom." Most of the lessons include suggestions for classroom activities, quizzes, and supplementary reading matter. The instructional units are organized…

The goal of this unit is to increase student awareness of current issues regarding relations between the United States and Japan. Eleven activities are designed to increase cultural awareness. The unit is introduced by discussing the reasons for study of other nations for multicultural understanding. Students complete a questionnaire concerning…

An activity book is designed to address problems and oversights in classroom coverage of Japan discovered by the Japan/United States Textbook Study Project. Activities which focus on Japanese religion, language, and geography address two important questions: what immediate application does the textbook study have for classroom teachers and how can…

A lesson plan, divided into five learning activities, explores certain fundamental beliefs and practices associated with Shintoism, the ancient religion of the Japanese. It is designed for integration into a course on world cultures or global studies. The unit is organized to allow high school students an opportunity to observe the variety of ways…

The need to develop an awareness of the global nature of the agriculture industry is one of the major issues that students must begin to understand. A packet of instructional materials was developed to help teachers infuse a global perspective into units of instruction about agriculture and related topics. This document offers a series of…

Designed to provide students and teachers with opportunities to investigate the social, cultural, and historical traits of Japan, this study unit can be adapted to the needs of any group within the social studies curriculum (grades 4-12). An overview and outline on Japan covers the areas of geography, population, history, unique features (e.g.,…

A workbook for learning about Japan, its people, and its culture through a broad exploration of the Japanese language is presented. The aim of the book is not to teach the student to speak Japanese; language is used primarily as a vehicle for teaching about Japanese culture. The book is divided into six chapters: (1) A world of words: imports and…

Four lessons in this inquiry unit introduce junior high students to the influence of geography on economics and way of life in Japan. Lessons are provided on the effects of overcrowding, the influence of space on Japanese farming, a Japanese product search, and Japanese cuisine. Each lesson includes time and materials required, rationale,…

A collection of activities and teaching strategies provides a global approach to teaching about Japan at the elementary school level. Following a preface, material is divided into three main sections. The first section outlines interdisciplinary skill goals and attitudinal skill goals of global learning experiences. The second section, "For…

A collection of five activities for teaching about Japan at the elementary level is provided. An introductory activity is designed to elicit student perceptions of the Japanese through drawings and words. A second activity uses Japanese folk tales. The remaining three activities are presented by grade level (1-3) and provide strategies for…

Arranged in outline form, this unit on Japan contains over 40 activities for intermediate grade students. Subjects covered are human and physical geography, social history, life style, communication and travel, occupations, recreation, art, education, government, and relations with the United States. Four to 10 activities are described under each…