Discusses how the global approach can be used to teach about Japanese culture in elementary and secondary social studies classes. Students compare and contrast Japanese and American cultures. Methods for helping students to become familiar with aspects of Japanese culture are included. (AM)

Illustrates a way social studies teachers can use translation exercises to teach about a geographic region. Uses translations of haiku poetry for this purpose. Students perceive and translate a haiku differently thus experiencing firsthand a fundamental objective of social studies which is understanding differences in perspectives. (GG)

Highlights a variety of ERIC materials for teaching about the Pacific Rim. Titles include "Teaching about South Korea"; "Bringing Chinese Culture Alive through Language"; "Teaching about Japan"; "Teaching about Korea: Elementary and Secondary Activities"; and "Cultural Differences in Self-Consciousness…

Explores how historical empathy can give students a richer understanding of the past, focusing on the development of the students' historical understanding through an analysis of 18 documents on President Truman's decision to use the atomic bomb against Japan. (CMK)

Discusses growing concern about negative attitudes toward Japan and Japanese people among secondary school and college students. Describes the use of quality control circles to bridge the cultural divide. Reports on the success of the program and argues that teachers have a responsibility to promote cultural understanding and diversity. (CFR)

Asserts that examining cultural artifacts brings important learning opportunities to the classroom. Describes the planning process for a trip to Japan and the collection of cultural artifacts for a social studies curriculum kit. Includes suggested classroom activities using the kit. (CFR)

Asserts that South Korea can be an excellent subject for an effective unit on history, economic development, critical thinking skills, and cross-cultural understanding. Provides background information and a list of teacher resources for planning a unit on South Korea. (CFR)

Describes the teacher education programs of the Close Up Foundation. Discusses a week-long Washington, D.C., program that brings students and teachers in contact with elected and appointed public officials, lobbyists, and media representatives. Outlines a summer institutes program and an exchange program for U.S. and Japanese teachers. (CFR)