Japanese

Yukichi Fukuzawa emphasized language acquisition throughout his life. He wanted the Japanese people to be independent-minded, not merely to obey their government, but to have the ability to improve Japanese society by using the power of the pen. Another trait Fukuzawa emphasized was improving Japanese vocal expression for public speaking. He translated the English word speech into the Japanese Enzetsu. Fukuzawa’s thoughts and philosophy guide the Japanese department curriculum at Keio Academy.

JHL (Japanese as a Heritage Language) class is one of the most essential classes in the Japanese department. These classes are for students raised outside of Japan or International Schools for extended periods. These classes are purposely as small as possible to accommodate individual learning needs and styles. It is a demanding course, but our instructors have the experience and professionalism to enable students to raise their awareness of Japanese heritage and language skills.

In the 9th and 10th grade Japanese classes, all students learn modern and classical Japanese reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. The Introduction to Public Speaking class in 9th grade is designed to teach Japanese oral skills using Noh chanting (Noh is one of the oldest Japanese theatrical arts) so that students may improve their basic communication skills. Also, students have many opportunities to express their opinions.

In the 11th and 12th grades, students take Japanese Research and Presentation. In those classes, students focus on preparing and presenting academic topics. Also, students expand their social knowledge. The other important skill which the department emphasizes is high-level cognitive and intensive reading. In 11th and 12th Japanese Language and Literature courses, students are required to read modern and classic Japanese in a variety of genres so that students can read texts correctly and analytically. 

In all our classes, students have many opportunities to make presentations, discuss various topics, and write their opinions so that they are ready to study university-level Japanese.
 
Miho Estay-Izumi / Japanese Department Chair
mestay-izumi@keio.edu