Preparation

I am currently working with elementary computer classes to complete projects that I can share with elementary schools in Japan.

 

Fourth grade classes in both DeSoto and Minburn are packing a "virtual suitcase" that will include both practical items that a traveller needs to take when going to a foreign country, as well as sending something important that tells about our school, community, state, or country. These projects are being done in HyperStudio using paint and text tools. A page from each student's project will be compiled into a class present that I can students in Japan using a laptop computer.

 

Fifth grade classes in DeSoto are preparing group projects on a variety of topics, ranging from how our classrooms look to the school lunch program. Students have been given the freedom to decide what the final project will be. Students have considered different mediums, such as a picture book, computer project, or video presentation.

 

Students in Minburn have learned how important business cards are in formal introductions. They are designing a business card that will represent the school and state. One or two outstanding designs will be selected. They also are planning projects that will tell about their community and school.

 

While I am gone:

Although a substitute has not yet been appointed, I hope to have a few cyber projects ready for the students while I am gone. Once a week, I plan to have students in grades 3-5 view the additions to the web page to see where I have been. Also, I plan to have students email with information about school, and questions about Japan. That is a lot to happen in a short 30 minute class! If you have online access at home, you may want to allow your child more time to explore the site and write to me.

 

Student and Teacher Resources:

The collection of books and activities about Japan and its culture is growing! I have acquired many Japanese folk tales and children's stories about WWII (atomic bomb in Japan and internment camps in the United States), all of which help gain perspective and insight into Japan's culture. Additionally, I have located several teacher resources which will help teachers create centers for their students to learn about Japan and to help understand some of the experiences I will be sharing with them later.

 

I also have a few Japanese language CD ROM's and audio cassettes. Some students may wish to explore the Japanese language as well as its culture!

 

Gift Exchange:

An exchange of gifts is a very formal part of Japanese courtesy. Different levels of gifts are expected, depending on the importance of the person you encounter. Gifts ranging from pencils with school names imprinted, to a hardcover book with pictures of the US, Iowa, or community. Students will be encouraged to share a small craft item. If you have any item that would be appropriate to share as a gift, please feel free to contact me.

 

 

Web Page:

As a requirement of the Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program, I am planning several activities to help share the information I will receive about Japan. One of the main activities is maintaining a website while I am in Japan. I plan to post pictures, information, and several observations from my travel journal. I invite you to visit the web site! I hope to update as often as the schedule will permit. I also encourage email! I will be out of the country for three weeks, and may not be able to locate English language newspapers. Any information about local, state, and national news and weather will be greatly appreciated!

 

Packing!

The passport is here, the suitcases are ready to pack, clothing has been purchased that should pack well (conservative dress: sorry, almost no typical "Ms. Hegstrom" clothes...) I have already certified the laptop computer, digital and film cameras, and video cam with the Customs service so they will not be subject to duty tax on return.