Shima Explorers Teacher Guide Shima Explorers
TEACHER PLANNING PLAYBOOK
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 01: Geography
Learning Targets
Locate and name the 4 main islands of Japan (Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu).
Identify Japan's position relative to neighboring countries and oceans.
Describe the dramatic climate contrast between Northern and Southern Japan.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Snow vs. Tropics Show side-by-side photos of snowy Sapporo (Hokkaido) and tropical Naha (Okinawa). Ask: "Are these in the same country?"
ACQUIRE (15m)
The 4 Giants Direct instruction using slides. Map labeling of the 4 islands. Introduce terms: Kita (North) and Minami (South).
BRIDGE (15m)
Island Decision Pair-Share Students use the Graphic Organizer to compare two islands and justify where they would live based on climate and location.
INSPECT (10m)
Map Sprint Exit Ticket Quick-labeling assessment of the 4 main islands and the Sea of Japan/Pacific Ocean.
Vocabulary Spotlight
SHIMA (島)
Island
HONSHU (本州)
Main Island
HOKKAIDO (北海道)
North Sea Circuit
KYUSHU (九州)
Nine Provinces
SHIKOKU (四国)
Four Provinces
Teacher Tip
Japan is roughly the size of California! Emphasize that it stretches vertically, which creates the massive climate difference.
Success Criteria
Students can point to Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu on a blank map with 100% accuracy.
Students can explain why Sapporo is colder than Naha using the term "latitude."
Students can identify the Sea of Japan to the West and Pacific Ocean to the East.
Discussion Prompts
"If you had to move to an island for the food, which would you pick?"
Encourage students to think about seafood in Hokkaido vs. tropical fruits in Kyushu/Okinawa.
"Japan is 70% mountains. How does that change where people live?"
Guide them to the realization that most people live on the coasts or in the narrow valleys.
Required Materials
Shima Explorers Slides
Bridge Organizer: My Island Choice
Map Sprint Exit Ticket
Colored pencils (for mapping)
Cultural Insight
"Japan is not just a country, it's an archipelago of over 6,800 islands. While we focus on the Big 4, the thousands of small ones hold the true secrets of local tradition."
Shima Explorers Presentation SHIMA EXPLORERS
Japanese Geography
Sekai no Hakken
Unit 1 • Lesson 1
TUNE-IN
One Country, Two Worlds?
Sapporo (North)
Sub-arctic winters and 10+ feet of snow.
Okinawa (South)
Sub-tropical heat and coral reefs year-round.
"Japan is over 1,800 miles long from tip to tip!"
ACQUIRE
The "Big 4" Archipelago
HOKKAIDO
HONSHU
KYUSHU
SHIKOKU
Sea of Japan
Pacific Ocean
HOKKAIDO
North Sea Circuit
HONSHU
The Main State
SHIKOKU
Four Provinces
KYUSHU
Nine Provinces
INSPECT
Map Sprint!
Mission Checklist:
Label the 4 main islands.
Draw Mt. Fuji on Honshu.
Locate Tokyo.
Name the archipelago.
Label your blank
Map Handout now!
Shima Explorers Bridge Organizer Island Decision
Bridge Graphic Organizer
Name:
"Choose two different islands to compare. Think about the landscape and lifestyle."
Island A:
Climate & Weather
Topography/Culture
Island B:
Climate & Weather
Topography/Culture
The Final Verdict
I would live on:
Reasoning (Why this island?):
Pair-Share Task
Compare your reasons with a partner. Did you pick the same one?
Partner
Stamp
Reigi Rituals Teacher Guide Reigi Rituals
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 02: Etiquette
Learning Targets
Master: Ohayou Gozaimasu , Konnichiwa , Konbanwa .
Perform 30° Keirei and 15° Eshaku bows.
Use polite vs. casual register based on social hierarchy.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Bowing Battle : Analyze high-speed professional bowing clips. Discuss depth vs. relationship.
ACQUIRE (15m)
Ritual Training : Model posture. Introduce the Uchi-Soto (Inside/Outside) concept.
BRIDGE (15m)
Speed Greetings : Hand out the Reigi Bridge Organizer . Students rotate through 4 peer scenarios.
INSPECT (10m)
Reflection : Students complete the final box on their organizer regarding bowing difficulty.
Etiquette Sidebar
15° ESHAKU
Casual greeting for peers or daily acquaintances.
30° KEIREI
Standard respectful bow for teachers/elders.
POSTURE
Back straight, eyes down, hands at sides (B) or front (G).
Bridge Activity Preview
Scenario 1
Meeting a best friend at the locker.
Scenario 2
First bell rings; Sensei enters the room.
Scenario 3
Buying snacks at the local Konbini.
Scenario 4
The Principal walks past in the hall.
Reigi Rituals Presentation REIGI RITUALS
Greetings & Etiquette
TUNE-IN
The Bowing Battle
Observe the Depth & Speed
Depth
Does lower mean more respect?
Timing
Who bows first in a meeting?
ACQUIRE
Timing is Everything
おはよう
Ohayou Gozaimasu
Good Morning
こんにちは
Konnichiwa
Hello / Good Day
こんばんは
Konbanwa
Good Evening
ACQUIRE
The Geometry of Respect
会釈 (えしゃく)
Eshaku - 15° Degree Bow
15°
敬礼 (けいれい)
Keirei - 30° Degree Bow
30°
Posture Check
Back remains straight
Eyes look at the floor
Hands at sides or lap
Reigi Rituals Bridge Organizer Speed Greetings
Bridge Ritual Organizer
Name:
"Find a partner for each round. Perform the correct greeting and bow depth. Have your partner INITIAL your card!"
1 Round One
Morning Locker
Your best friend at their locker (before 8:00 AM).
Greeting:
Partner Initial
2 Round Two
Sensei Arrives
Your teacher enters the classroom to start the lesson.
Greeting:
Partner Initial
3 Round Three
Convenience Store
Meeting a neighbor you sort of know while buying snacks.
Greeting:
Partner Initial
4 Round Four
Principal's Hallway
The school principal walks past you after lunch.
Greeting:
Partner Initial
Ritual Reflector
"Which was harder: the greeting words or the posture? Why?"
Moji Magic Teacher Guide Moji Magic
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 03: Writing Systems
Learning Targets
Distinguish Hiragana (Native), Katakana (Foreign), and Kanji (Meaning).
Apply stroke order rules: Top-to-Bottom, Left-to-Right.
Understand the 4 basic rules of character construction.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Loanword Challenge : Can students guess the English word behind Miruku or Terebi ?
ACQUIRE (15m)
Character Anatomy : Compare the curvilinear Hiragana to the angular Katakana. Introduce the 5 vowels (A, I, U, E, O).
BRIDGE (15m)
Sorting Task : Students categorize the 6 words on their organizer and trace the vowel stroke order.
INSPECT (10m)
Moji ID : Peer check of the "A" (あ) character construction and sorting accuracy.
Vocabulary Box
MOJI (文字)
Character / Letter.
KAKIJUN (書き順)
Stroke Order.
STROKE RULES
Top to Bottom
Left to Right
Horizontal before Vertical
Middle before Sides
Organizer Word Bank (6)
さくら (Native)
パン (Loanword)
日本 (Kanji)
きもの (Native)
テレビ (Loanword)
先生 (Kanji)
Encourage students to look for "curves" vs "sharp lines" to tell the phonetic systems apart!
Moji Magic Presentation MOJI MAGIC
The 3 Writing Systems
TUNE-IN
The Loanword Challenge
コーラ
Koo-ra
COLA
ミルク
Mi-ru-ku
???
カメラ
Ka-me-ra
???
Why are these written in Katakana?
ACQUIRE
1. Hiragana (ひらがな)
The Purpose
Native Japanese words, grammar particles, and verb endings.
Visual Clue
Curvy and "flowy." Developed by women in the imperial court!
あ
い
う
え
お
?
ACQUIRE
2. Katakana (カタカナ)
ア
イ
ウ
エ
オ
The Purpose
Foreign names, loanwords from other languages, and onomatopoeia (sound effects).
Visual Clue
Sharp and angular. Developed by Buddhist monks!
ACQUIRE
3. Kanji (漢字)
The Purpose
Each symbol represents a meaning or concept, not just a sound.
Visual Clue
Complex characters with many strokes. Borrowed from China.
木
Tree
山
Mountain
BRIDGE
Moji Sorting!
Use your Writing System Sort organizer.
SORT
6 words into the correct system.
TRACE
Practice stroke order for vowels.
TELL
Explain the rules to your partner.
Moji Magic Bridge Organizer Writing System Sort
Bridge Graphic Organizer
Name:
1 System Categorization
HIRAGANA
KATAKANA
KANJI
さくら パン 日本 きもの テレビ 先生
2 Stroke Order Training
あ
A
い
I
う
U
え
E
お
O
Partner Check
"Point to a character and explain which system it belongs to and WHY. Are their strokes correct?"
Expert
Verified
Kazu Ninjas Teacher Guide Kazu Ninjas
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 04: Numbers & Yen
Learning Targets
Count fluently from 0-20 in Japanese using correct pronunciation.
Identify the symbols and values for Japanese Yen (¥ / 円).
Perform basic shopping transactions (asking for prices and paying).
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
100 Yen Shop Tour : Show a quick clip or photos of a Daiso/100 Yen shop. Ask: "What could you buy for $1 in the US vs. Japan?"
ACQUIRE (15m)
Number Sense : Teach 0-10 first, then the "10 + X" logic for 11-20. Introduce the Yen symbol (円) and the phrase Ikura desu ka? (How much?).
BRIDGE (15m)
Ninja Shopkeepers : Students use the "Yen Shop" Bridge Organizer. Pairs take turns being the shopkeeper and the customer, totaling their purchases.
INSPECT (10m)
Price Tag Match : Quick quiz: Show Japanese price tags and have students write the English number equivalent.
Number Key 0-20
0: Rei / Zero
1: Ichi
2: Ni
3: San
4: Shi / Yon
5: Go
6: Roku
7: Shichi / Nana
8: Hachi
9: Ku / Kyuu
10: Juu
11: Juu-ichi
12: Juu-ni
13: Juu-san
14: Juu-yon
15: Juu-go
16: Juu-roku
17: Juu-nana
18: Juu-hachi
19: Juu-kyuu
20: Ni-juu
SHOPPING PHRASES
Ikura desu ka? (How much?)
___-en desu. (It is ___ yen.)
Kore wo kudasai. (This one, please.)
Cultural Note: The 100 Yen Shop
The "Hyaku-en Shop" is a staple of Japanese daily life. Unlike many "dollar stores" in the US, these shops are known for high-quality household goods, innovative kitchen gadgets, and elegant stationery. They are essential for students and home-makers alike.
Kazu Ninjas Teacher Guide Kazu Ninjas
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 04: Numbers
Learning Targets
Count fluently from 0 to 20 in Japanese.
Identify Japanese Yen symbols (¥ / 円) and understand basic value.
Use the "Stack Rule" to construct numbers 11-19 and multiples of ten (20).
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
100 Yen Shop Tour : Show Daiso/100-Yen store haul images. Ask: "If everything is 100 Yen, how many things can you buy with 1000 Yen?"
ACQUIRE (15m)
Counting Training : Drill 0-10. Explain the "Stack Rule" (10 + X) for 11-19. Teach the "2-Ten" rule for 20 (Ni-Juu).
BRIDGE (15m)
Ninja Shop : Students fill out the "Yen Receipt" organizer using the price menu. Roleplay customer/clerk transactions.
INSPECT (10m)
Price Check : Exit Ticket. "Listen and Write." Read 3 numbers in Japanese; students write the numeric value + ¥ symbol.
Number Box
0 REI / ZERO
1 ICHI
2 NI
3 SAN
4 YON/SHI
5 GO
6 ROKU
7 NANA
8 HACHI
9 KYUU
10 JUU
Stack Rule Examples
11: Juu-ichi (10+1)
20: Ni-juu (2x10)
UNLUCKY NUMS
4 and 9 are "scary" because they sound like "Death" and "Suffering."
Required Assets
Kazu Ninjas Slides
Bridge Organizer: Yen Receipt
"Encourage students to use the ¥ symbol instead of '$' to stay in the target culture mindset!"
Kazu Ninjas Presentation KAZU NINJAS
Numbers & Yen
TUNE-IN
The 100 Yen Paradise
HYAKU-EN SHOP
Daiso, Seria, CanDo—Everything ¥100!
Wallet Power
¥100 ≈ $0.70
"Budget friendly for students!"
ACQUIRE
Numbers 0 - 10
0 REI / ZERO
1 ICHI
2 NI
3 SAN
4 YON
Unlucky
5 GO
6 ROKU
7 NANA
8 HACHI
9 KYUU
Unlucky
10 Juu
ACQUIRE
Stacking & Multipliers
Stacking (11-19)
10 + 5 = JUU-GO
Multiplying (20, 30...)
2 × 10 = NI-JUU
"JUU in the front adds, JUU in the back multiplies!"
BRIDGE
Ninja Mart Simulation
Use your Yen Receipt organizer. Spend exactly ¥1,000!
CLERKS (Tenin):
"Irasshaimase!"
(Welcome!)
CUSTOMERS (Kyaku):
"Kore wa ikura desu ka?"
(How much is this?)
Look at your Yen Receipt sheet for item prices!
INSPECT
Price Check!
"Listen to the prices and record them below."
¥ ___
¥ ___
¥ ___
Kazu Ninja Mastery Check
Kazu Ninjas Bridge Organizer 100 Yen Shop
Bridge Shopping Simulation
Name:
"Spend 200 Yen. Choose TWO items. Practice Japanese phrases!"
Mechanical Pencil
¥60
Pocky Snacks
¥80
Hand Fan
¥100
Cute Stickers
¥40
My Receipt
Item 1:
¥
Item 2:
¥
TOTAL:
¥
Shopping Phrases
"Ikura desu ka?" (How much?)
"_____ -en desu." (It is ____ yen.)
Transaction Notes
How did you calculate your total? Did you have enough Yen?
Kazu Ninjas Bridge Organizer Yen Receipt
Bridge Shopping Organizer
Name:
My Wallet
Limit: Don't spend more than ¥1,000!
¥1,000
Shop Menu
Ramune Soda ¥150
Onigiri ¥120
Pocky Snacks ¥180
Manga Book ¥500
Fancy Pen ¥300
Transaction Record
Ninja Mart
Item Name Cost (Yen)
1
2
3
Total Cost:
¥
Bridge Roleplay
Partner up! Clerks say: "Irasshaimase!" (Welcome). Customers ask: "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" (How much is this?)
Kazu Ninjas Presentation KAZU NINJAS
Numbers 0 - 20 & Yen
TUNE-IN
The 100 Yen Challenge
Hyaku-en Shop
Everything for just 100 Yen!
¥100
In the US, $1 buys you very little. In Japan, 100 Yen buys you quality goods!
"How do we tell the shopkeeper we want it?"
ACQUIRE
Numbers 0 ~ 10
0
ZERO / REI
1
ICHI
2
NI
3
SAN
4
YON
5
GO
6
ROKU
7
NANA
8
HACHI
9
KYUU
10
JUU
PEDAGOGICAL NOTE: The "Red 3"
In Japanese counting patterns, the number 3 often causes sounds to "pop" or change (e.g., San-byaku, San-nin). We flag it red to start noticing the pattern!
ACQUIRE
The 10 + X Formula
10
JUU
1
ICHI
=
11
JUU-ICHI
15 (10 + 5) JUU-GO
18 (10 + 8) JUU-HACHI
20 (2 x 10) NI-JUU
Patterns Matter
Japanese numbers are perfectly logical. If you know 1-10, you can count to 99!
円
YEN (EN)
Means "Circle." Used for all currency!
BRIDGE
Shopkeeper Roleplay
The Customer
"Ikura desu ka?"
(How much?)
"Kore wo kudasai."
(This one, please.)
The Shopkeeper
"__________-en desu."
(It is __________ yen.)
"Arigatou gozaimasu!"
(Thank you!)
Toki Travelers Teacher Guide Toki Travelers
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 05: Calendar
Learning Targets
State the 12 months in Japanese (Numbers 1-12 + Gatsu).
Identify the nature-based names for the 7 days of the week.
Identify Japanese school year start dates and seasonal symbolism.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Spring Reset : Slide 2. Contrast April (Blossoms/Entrance) with September (Leaves/Harvest). Why does Japan choose Spring?
ACQUIRE (15m)
Gatsu & Youbi : Drills. Introduce the "-gatsu" month system. Teach the 7 nature icons for days (Moon, Fire, Water, Wood, Metal/Gold, Earth, Sun).
BRIDGE (15m)
Toki Timeline : Students complete their organizer. Practice birth months for the "Birthday Lineup" challenge.
INSPECT (10m)
Lineup Challenge : Jan-Dec lineup in Japanese only. Spot check: "Birth month?" response using Romaji/Kana.
Nature Days
GETSU Moon (Mon)
KA Fire (Tue)
SUI Water (Wed)
MOKU Wood (Thu)
KIN Metal/Gold (Fri)
DO Earth (Sat)
NICHI Sun (Sun)
PRO TIPS
Phonetic Exceptions:
• April: Shi-gatsu
• July: Shichi-gatsu
• Sept: Ku-gatsu
Success Criteria
Correctly name personal birth month.
State today's nature day.
Students find the "Nature connection" highly memorable. Emphasize the cycle of elements!
Toki Travelers Teacher Guide Toki Travelers
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 05: The Calendar
Learning Targets
Recite the 12 months in Japanese using the "[Number] + Gatsu" pattern.
Identify the start of the Japanese school year (April) and its significance.
State their birth month using the correct question/answer structure.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Cherry Blossom Countdown : Show images of cherry blossoms vs. students entering school. Explain that April 1st is the start of the Japanese school year.
ACQUIRE (15m)
Month Patterns : Teach the pattern. Focus on exceptions: 4 (Shi-gatsu), 7 (Shichi-gatsu), 9 (Ku-gatsu). Introduce Nan-gatsu (Which month?).
BRIDGE (15m)
Birthday Lineup : Students use the "Birthday Radar" organizer. They must find peers born in the same month and organize themselves chronologically.
INSPECT (10m)
Season Sort : Group Japanese months into the 4 seasons. Discussion: "How does the school calendar change how students experience summer?"
The 12 Months
1: Ichi-gatsuJan
2: Ni-gatsuFeb
3: San-gatsuMar
4: Shi-gatsu*Apr
5: Go-gatsuMay
6: Roku-gatsuJun
7: Shichi-gatsu*Jul
8: Hachi-gatsuAug
9: Ku-gatsu*Sep
10: Juu-gatsuOct
11: Juuichi-gatsuNov
12: Juuni-gatsuDec
Bridge Implementation
Students are not allowed to use English during the lineup. They must ask: "Nan-gatsu umare desu ka?" (What month were you born?) and answer with "[Month] desu."
Toki Travelers Bridge Organizer Birthday Lineup
Bridge Calendar Task
Name:
I am born in:
Objective: Collect 5 Birth Months
Ask classmates "Nan-gatsu umare desu ka?" Record names in the correct boxes.
Ichi-gatsu
Ni-gatsu
San-gatsu
Shi-gatsu *
Go-gatsu
Roku-gatsu
Shichi-gatsu *
Hachi-gatsu
Ku-gatsu *
Juu-gatsu
Juuichi-gatsu
Juuni-gatsu
* Note: Irregular reading (does not use standard number pronunciation).
Reflection Question
If the school year starts in April, what month do you think the big entrance exams are held? Why?
Toki Travelers Presentation TOKI TRAVELERS
Calendar & Time
TUNE-IN
When does school start?
APRIL (SHIGATSU)
Spring start. Symbolic of "New Life."
SEPTEMBER
Autumn start. Symbolic of "Harvest."
ACQUIRE
The 12 Months (-GATSU)
Ichi-gatsuJan
Ni-gatsuFeb
San-gatsuMar
Shi-gatsuApr
Go-gatsuMay
Roku-gatsuJun
Shichi-gatsuJul
Hachi-gatsuAug
Ku-gatsuSep
Juu-gatsuOct
Juu-ichi-gatsuNov
Juu-ni-gatsuDec
Remember: Just add "-GATSU" to the number!
ACQUIRE
Nature-Based Days (-YOUBI)
GETSU
MOON
KA
FIRE
SUI
WATER
MOKU
WOOD
KIN
METAL
DO
EARTH
NICHI
SUN
Toki Travelers Presentation TOKI TRAVELERS
The Japanese Calendar
TUNE-IN
The April Awakening
Sakura Season
The Big Difference
In Japan, the school year doesn't start in August. It starts in APRIL when the cherry blossoms bloom!
USA
Fall Start
JAPAN
Spring Start
ACQUIRE
The Month Pattern
Number
1 ~ 12
Month
GATSU
Ichi-gatsu
January
Ni-gatsu
February
San-gatsu
March
BRIDGE
Birthday Lineup!
The Question:
"Nan-gatsu umare desu ka?"
(WHAT MONTH WERE YOU BORN?)
NO ENGLISH allowed during the lineup!
Arrange yourself from Ichi-gatsu to Juuni-gatsu.
Toki Travelers Bridge Organizer Toki Timeline
Bridge Calendar Organizer
Name:
1 The 12 Months
January
February
March
April (Start!)
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
2 The Weekly Cycle
Getsu (Moon)
Ka (Fire)
Sui (Water)
Moku (Wood)
Kin (Metal/Gold)
Do (Earth)
Nichi (Sun)
My Toki Profile
My Birth Month:
... -gatsu
Today's Day:
... -youbi
"Time for the Birthday Lineup ! Use only your Japanese month name to find your spot."
Kisetsu Winds Teacher Guide Kisetsu Winds
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 06: Seasons & Weather
Learning Targets
Identify the 4 seasons (Kisetsu ) in Japanese.
Master 5 weather terms: Hare, Ame, Kumori, Yuki, Kaze (Windy).
Connect seasonal weather to traditional Japanese art (Ukiyo-e).
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Ukiyo-e Seasons : Present 4 woodblock prints depicting different seasons. Ask students to identify the weather in each.
ACQUIRE (15m)
Atmosphere Vocab : Teach Hare, Ame, Kumori, Yuki , and Kaze (Windy). Match them to the 4 seasons.
BRIDGE (15m)
Seasonal Forecast : Students use the Bridge Organizer to create a "Forecast Poster" for a chosen season and island.
INSPECT (10m)
Weather Report : Students present their forecast in a "Weather Ninja" 30-second stand-up using full sentences.
Seasonal Vocab
HARU (Spring)
NATSU (Summer)
AKI (Autumn)
FUYU (Winter)
New Vocab
KAZE (風) - Windy
Bridge Task Suggestions
Have students pick an island (Hokkaido vs. Okinawa) to make the forecast realistic. Winter in Hokkaido means Yuki, while in Okinawa it might just be Hare or Kaze.
Kisetsu Winds Teacher Guide Kisetsu Winds
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 06: Weather & Seasons
Learning Targets
Identify the four seasons: Haru, Natsu, Aki, Fuyu .
Use basic weather terms: Hare, Ame, Yuki, Kumo .
Connect Japanese seasons to traditional art (Ukiyo-e) and cultural motifs.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Artistic Weather : Show "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" or other Ukiyo-e woodblock prints. Ask: "What season is this? How can you tell from the sky/waves?"
ACQUIRE (15m)
Seasonal Cycles : Introduce the 4 seasons. Teach weather adjectives (Atsui, Samui) and nouns (Ame, Yuki). Discuss the "Rainy Season" (Tsuyu) phenomenon.
BRIDGE (15m)
Forecast Poster : Groups create a one-day weather forecast for a Japanese city (Sapporo, Tokyo, or Naha) using seasonal cues.
INSPECT (10m)
Sky Report : Exit Ticket. "Look out the window. Describe today's weather in 2 Japanese words."
Seasonal Box
HARUSpring
NATSUSummer
AKIAutumn
FUYUWinter
HARESunny
AMERainy
YUKISnowy
ART CONNECTION
Japanese culture is deeply tied to the "First [Weather Event] of the Year" (e.g., Hatsuyuki - First Snow). It is often celebrated in poetry.
Success Criteria
Students can correctly link 'Aki' to maple leaves/orange colors.
Students can present a 3-word weather forecast (e.g., 'Tokyo, Haru, Hare').
Use the Ukiyo-e slides to ground the vocabulary in visual history. It helps students remember the terms through evocative imagery.
Kisetsu Winds Presentation KISETSU WINDS
Seasons & Weather
TUNE-IN
Painting the Seasons
"Sudden Shower at Atake" - Hiroshige
Artistic Clues
1 🌸 Blossoms (Haru)
2 🏮 Summer (Natsu)
3 🍁 Red Leaves (Aki)
4 ❄️ Deep Snow (Fuyu)
ACQUIRE
The Four Seasons (KISETSU)
Haru
Spring
Natsu
Summer
Aki
Autumn
Fuyu
Winter
ACQUIRE
Core Weather Vocabulary
HARE
Sunny
AME
Rainy
YUKI
Snowy
BRIDGE
The Weather Desk
Use your Seasonal Forecast organizer. Choose a city to report!
"Kyou no tenki wa... _________ desu!"
INSPECT
The Sky Today
Look out the window right now!
1. Which Weather term fits today?
2. Which Season are we in?
3. Is it ATSUI or SAMUI?
Kisetsu Winds Bridge Organizer Weather Ninja
Bridge Seasonal Forecast
Name:
1. Choose Your Region
Hokkaido
Kyushu
2. Choose Your Season
Haru (Spring)
Natsu (Summer)
Aki (Autumn)
Fuyu (Winter)
TODAY'S FORECAST
__________
Weather Vocab
"Draw the weather icon above and write the Japanese word."
My Ninja Report
Write your full forecast sentence here:
Example: "Hokkaido no Fuyu wa Yuki desu."
Kisetsu Winds Presentation KISETSU WINDS
Seasons & Weather
TUNE-IN
Seasons in Print
Haru
Spring Blossoms
Natsu
Summer Cicadas
Aki
Autumn Leaves
Fuyu
Winter Silence
ACQUIRE
The Skies of Japan
Hare
Sunny
Ame
Rainy
Kumori
Cloudy
Yuki
Snowy
Ukiyo-e Connect
Japanese artists didn't just paint "scenery"—they painted the mood of the weather.
Kisetsu Winds Bridge Organizer Seasonal Forecast
Bridge Weather Organizer
Name:
1 City Selection
Select one city for your report:
SAPPORO (Hokkaido)
TOKYO (Honshu)
NAHA (Okinawa)
Word Bank
HARU NATSU AKI FUYU HARE AME YUKI ATSUI SAMUI
2 Weather Report
Draw your weather icon above
Season:
Weather:
Feel:
Bridge: Weather Desk
"Partner up! Present your forecast like a TV weather reporter. Start with: Kyou no tenki wa... (Today's weather is...)"
Oishii Journeys Teacher Guide Oishii Journeys
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 07: Food & Etiquette
Learning Targets
Identify the 5 staples of a Japanese meal (Rice, Fish, Miso, Pickles, Tea).
Master the "Itadakimasu" and "Gochisousama" rituals.
Apply basic chopstick etiquette (No "Mayoi-bashi" or "Sashi-bashi").
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Chopstick Challenge : Use chopsticks (or training ones) to move pom-poms from one bowl to another in 60 seconds. Ask: "What's the hardest part?"
ACQUIRE (15m)
The Oishii 5 : Instruction on common meal staples. Model the hand gesture for Itadakimasu (Clapped hands). Introduce the 3 big chopstick taboos.
BRIDGE (15m)
Bento Blueprint : Students use the "Design a Bento" organizer to plan a balanced meal using the Oishii 5.
INSPECT (10m)
Ritual Check : Peer review. Demonstrate the start and end of a meal to a partner, using the correct phrases and posture.
Oishii Staples
GOHANRice
SAKANAFish
MISO-SHIRUMiso Soup
TSUKEMONOPickles
OCHAGreen Tea
TABLE TABOOS
• Don't point with chopsticks.
• Don't stick them upright in rice.
• Don't pull bowls with them.
Success Criteria
• Can explain the meaning of 'Itadakimasu' (I humbly receive).
• Can identify 3 components of a traditional Bento.
• Correctly positions chopsticks on a rest (Hashi-oki).
Tip: Use pom-poms or erasers for the chopstick challenge to avoid mess. It builds the "dexterity" empathy before discussing rules!
Oishii Journeys Food Teacher Guide Oishii Journeys
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 07: Food Culture
Learning Targets
Identify staples: Gohan, Miso-shiru, Sakana, Sushi, Ramen .
Master the rituals Itadakimasu and Gochisousama-deshita .
Apply 5 core chopstick (Ohashi ) etiquette rules.
TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Chopstick Challenge : Racing to move pom-poms with chopsticks. Test speed vs. coordination.
ACQUIRE (15m)
Balanced Meals : Teach "Ichiju-sansai". Intro the 5 Colors of Bento. Model correct chopstick grip.
BRIDGE (15m)
Design a Bento : Students use the organizer to build a virtual meal. They must label 3 parts in Japanese.
INSPECT (10m)
Etiquette Quiz : Safe or Out? Scenarios: Passing food, sticking hashi in rice, pointing, etc.
Gourmet Vocab
GohanRice
Miso-shiruMiso Soup
SakanaFish
OhashiChopsticks
Dining Rituals
Itadakimasu!
"I humbly receive."
Gochisousama!
"Thank you for the feast."
5 Chopstick Taboos
1. Hashi-watashi (Passing hashi-to-hashi)
2. Tate-hashi (Sticking vertically in rice)
3. Sashi-hashi (Pointing at people)
4. Mayoi-hashi (Hovering over food)
5. Yose-hashi (Pulling dishes with hashi)
"Japanese cuisine is a ritual of gratitude for the seasons and the chef's hard work."
Oishii Journeys Presentation OISHII JOURNEYS
Japanese Food Culture
TUNE-IN
The Chopstick Challenge
Race the Clock!
Mission:
Move 10 items from bowl A to bowl B using only chopsticks. No cheating!
60 SECONDS
"Is it all in the wrist, or all in the fingers?"
ACQUIRE
The Mealtime Ritual
ITADAKIMASU
"I humbly receive." (Before eating)
GOCHISOUSAMA
"It was a feast!" (After eating)
The Gesture
Hands together in a prayer position. A slight bow of the head. This shows gratitude to the chef, the farmer, and the food itself.
ACQUIRE
The Core Staples
🍚
GOHAN
White Rice
🐟
SAKANA
Grilled Fish
🥣
MISO-SHIRU
Miso Soup
🥒
TSUKEMONO
Pickles
🍵
OCHA
Green Tea
Ichiju Sansai: "One Soup, Three Sides"
BRIDGE
Design a Bento
Take your Bento Blueprint.
"A balanced bento should have variety in color, taste, and texture!"
🍎Color
🥗Health
🎨Art
Oishii Journeys Bridge Organizer My Bento Design
Bridge Culinary Planner
Name:
Menu Bank
Gohan
Miso-shiru
Sakana
Sushi
Yasai (Veg)
Bento Rule
A perfect bento features 5 colors: Red, Green, Yellow, White, and Black!
THE BENTO BOX
Label: ______________________
Label: ______________________
Label: ______________________
Label: ______________________
Wait! The Ritual...
Write the phrase you say before you eat:
Oishii Journeys Presentation OISHII JOURNEYS
Japanese Food Culture
TUNE-IN
The Ohashi Challenge
Teacher Demo: Pom-Pom Pick-up!
CHOPSTICKS (お箸)
In Japan, being a "Hashi Master" isn't just about picking up food—it's about respect.
"Can you move 5 objects in 30 seconds?"
ACQUIRE
Staples of the Table
Gohan
Steam Rice
Miso-shiru
Miso Soup
Sakana
Fish
Sushi
Raw Fish/Rice
ACQUIRE
Dining Rituals
BEFORE THE MEAL
Itadakimasu!
"I humbly receive this food." (Show gratitude to nature and the cook).
AFTER THE MEAL
Gochisousama-deshita!
"It was a wonderful feast." (Thank you for the effort).
BRIDGE
Design a Bento
Use your Bento Planner.
Balanced
Rice + Soup + Sides
Colorful
Make it look oishii!
Labelled
Use your vocab words.
Oishii Journeys Bridge Organizer Bento Blueprint
Bridge Meal Organizer
Name:
1 Bento Rules
Balanced Checklist
Something Red/Orange
Something Green
Main Carbohydrate
Protein Source
No Empty Spaces!
Word Bank (Menu)
GOHAN SAKANA TAMAGO FRUIT VEGGIES SUSHI
2 Meal Design
Draw your meal inside!
Chef's Description
"List your main items in Japanese using the word bank above!"
Matsuri Beats Teacher Guide Matsuri Beats
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 08: Music & Rhythm
Learning Targets
Identify traditional Japanese instruments: Taiko, Koto, Shamisen .
Mimic basic rhythm patterns used in festival music.
Understand the energy and community role of Matsuri (Festivals).
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Thunder Drums : Watch a 2-minute high-energy Taiko performance clip. Ask: "How is this different from a rock drummer? Look at their whole bodies!"
ACQUIRE (15m)
Matsuri Melodies : Introduction to the "Big 3" instruments. Discuss the use of nature-based sounds in Japanese music. Teach the concept of Kakegoe (shouts/calls).
BRIDGE (15m)
Rhythm Echo : Groups lead the class in a clapping routine using Taiko rhythm notation (Don, Do-ko, Ka). Use the "Matsuri Rhythm" organizer.
INSPECT (10m)
Sound Match : Listening quiz. Play 3 audio clips; students match the sound to the correct instrument name.
Instrument Box
TAIKO
Large, powerful drums played with sticks (Bachi).
KOTO
Stringed zither, national instrument of Japan.
SHAMISEN
Three-stringed lute, often associated with Geisha/Kabuki.
KAKEGOE TIPS
Encourage students to shout "Sore!" or "Ha!" during the Bridge activity. Shouting is part of the rhythm!
Success Criteria
• Can differentiate the deep boom of Taiko from the pluck of Koto.
• Successfully performs a 4-beat rhythm pattern.
• Uses "Don" (Deep) and "Ka" (Rim) vocalizations correctly.
"Taiko drumming is a workout! Point out the athletic stance of the performers—knees bent, arms wide."
Matsuri Beats Teacher Guide Matsuri Beats
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 08: Traditional Music
Learning Targets
Identify three traditional instruments: Taiko, Koto, Shamisen .
Use the concept of Kuchi-shouga (vocal drums) for rhythm.
Create and perform a simple 4-beat Japanese-style rhythm.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Taiko Thunder : High-energy ensemble video. Focus on the physical power and communication between drummers.
ACQUIRE (15m)
The Trio : Intro Koto (Elegant strings) and Shamisen (Fast lute). Teach the Kuchi-shouga system: Don (Center), Ka (Rim).
BRIDGE (15m)
Rhythm Echo : Groups lead the class in a 4-beat rhythm pattern using vocal syllables before desk-tapping.
INSPECT (10m)
Sound Match : Match instrument descriptions to names. Quick check on rhythmic syllable knowledge.
Orchestra Vocab
TAIKO
Barrel Drum
KOTO
13-String Zither
SHAMISEN
3-String Lute
RHYTHM KEY
Don: Center Strike
Ka: Rim Strike
Su: Silent Rest
Did you know?
Taiko drums were historically used on battlefields to signal troops and in religious rituals to communicate with the gods. They are carved from the hollow trunks of giant Zelkova trees.
Matsuri Beats Presentation MATSURI BEATS
Japanese Music
TUNE-IN
Thunder on Earth
Video: KODO Drumming
Observation
Do they just use their hands?
Feeling
Where in your body do you feel the sound?
ACQUIRE
The Traditional Trio
TAIKO
The Great Drum. Played with thick sticks called 'Bachi'.
KOTO
13-string zither. Plucked with picks worn on fingers.
SHAMISEN
3-string lute. Has a distinctive "twangy" banjo sound.
ACQUIRE
Vocalizing the Rhythm
DON
Single Deep Strike
DO-KO
Double Fast Strike
KA
The Rim Strike
"DON... DON... DO-KO DO-KO... KA!"
BRIDGE
Rhythm Echo
Take your Matsuri Rhythm organizer.
"One group leads a pattern, the rest of the class ECHOES it back!"
CALL
ECHO
Matsuri Beats Bridge Organizer Rhythm Echo
Bridge Rhythm Organizer
Name:
Sound Match
Identify the instrument name below:
13 Strings
Elegant & Flowing
Large Barrel
Thunderous Power
3 Strings
Fast Lute
Syllable Key
DON Center
KA Rim
SU Rest
Group Rhythm Creator
BEAT 1
BEAT 2
BEAT 3
BEAT 4
Bridge Task:
"Leader vocalizes syllables while the group drums it out by tapping desks. Sync your pattern perfectly!"
Matsuri Beats Presentation MATSURI BEATS
Traditional Sounds
TUNE-IN
The Power of Taiko
Video: Festival Performance
Movement
How do their physical movements match the sound?
Community
How do they maintain the rhythm without looking?
ACQUIRE
The Traditional Trio
TAIKO
The Great Drum
KOTO
The Zither
SHAMISEN
3-String Lute
ACQUIRE
Kuchi-shouga
The "Ninja" Syllables
DON Center
KA Rim
SU Rest
Don Don Ka Su!
Vocalize before you clap!
1
2
3
S
Matsuri Beats Bridge Organizer Matsuri Rhythm
Bridge Music Organizer
Name:
DON
Center Hit (Heavy)
DO-KO
Center Hits (Fast)
KA
Rim Hit (Sharp)
1 Compose Your Pattern
Beat 1
Beat 2
Beat 3
Shout!
"SORE!"
2 Matsuri Performance
"Stand like a mountain! Low base, strong arms. Perform your pattern for a partner."
Posture
Volume
Smile
Drum Master
Stamp
Zen Canvas Teacher Guide Zen Canvas
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 09: Art & Space
Learning Targets
Define the concept of Ma (negative space/pause).
Identify key features of Zen gardens (minimalism, symbolism).
Create a minimalist ink-style symbol using a single color.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Rock Riddle : Show a photo of a Zen Rock Garden (e.g., Ryoan-ji). Ask: "Why are there so few stones? What do the empty spaces represent?"
ACQUIRE (15m)
The Power of Less : Intro to Minimalism. Explain Ma (Space). Introduction to Sumi-e (Ink wash) basics—bold strokes, few lines, lots of white paper.
BRIDGE (15m)
Zen Sketch : Students use the "Zen Canvas" organizer to design one symbol representing a nature element (mountain, river, moon) using minimalist lines.
INSPECT (10m)
Ma Review : Pair-share. "Point to the Ma in your partner's art. What does the empty space add to the feeling?"
Art Vocabulary
MA (間)
The gap, the space between things, or the silence between sounds.
SUMI-E (墨絵)
Traditional Japanese ink wash painting.
ZEN GARDEN TIPS
The raked gravel isn't just dirt—it represents ripples in the sea or flowing rivers. Rocks are mountains or islands.
Success Criteria
• Explains 'Ma' as an intentional choice of space.
• Creates a nature symbol using 5 strokes or less.
• Uses black ink/marker effectively against white space.
"Zen art is about capture. Don't worry about perfection; focus on the 'essence' of the object."
Zen Canvas Teacher Guide Zen Canvas
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 09: Art & Minimalism
Learning Targets
Define the concept of Ma (negative space).
Identify Zen art characteristics: Minimalism, Asymmetry, Nature focus.
Create an ink-style (Sumi-e ) painting with maximum 3 strokes.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Zen Rock Garden : Analyze Ryoan-ji. Why are the rocks arranged in groups? What does the sand represent?
ACQUIRE (15m)
The Art of Less : Intro Ma . Show how space creates focus and peace. Explore Sumi-e brush techniques.
BRIDGE (15m)
Minimalist Canvas : Students use the organizer to create their 3-stroke art. Focus on asymmetry and the "breath" of the page.
INSPECT (10m)
Gallery Walk : Students observe how different people used the "Ma" on their page. Silent observation.
Zen Aesthetics
MA (間)
Negative Space / Pause
SUMI-E (墨絵)
Ink Wash Painting
Wabi-Sabi
Beauty in Imperfection
"Ma is the distance between the lines. It is the breath that makes the art alive."
Required Items
Bridge Organizer: Zen Canvas
Fine-tip black markers
Projector: Ryoan-ji Image
Zen Canvas Bridge Organizer Minimalist Canvas
Bridge Zen Organizer
Name:
My Sumi-e World
3 STROKES MAXIMUM
The Goal
"The paper is the wind, the water, or the sky. Your lines are the guide."
Represent a mountain, tree, or animal.
Focus on MA (empty space).
Use ONLY black ink or marker.
The "Ma" Reflection
Point to an empty area on your canvas. What does that space represent in your world?
Asymmetry Simplicity Ma
Zen Canvas Presentation ZEN CANVAS
Art & Minimalism
TUNE-IN
The Riddle of the Rocks
Zen Rock Garden (Karesansui)
Ask yourself:
"Why so much empty space?"
• What does the gravel look like? 🌊
• What do the rocks represent? ⛰️
ACQUIRE
"Ma" (間)
The beauty is in the spaces between.
Defining Ma:
• Silence between musical notes.
• Space between objects in a room.
• Pauses in a conversation.
間
Negative Space
BRIDGE
One Color, Five Lines
Take your Zen Canvas.
"Can you draw a Mountain or a Tree using only 5 strokes?"
Nature
Simplicity
Essence
Zen Canvas Bridge Organizer Zen Canvas
Bridge Art Organizer
Name:
1 The Spirit of MA
"Japanese art values the space that is not drawn. This space, called Ma , allows the subject to breathe and creates a feeling of peace."
2 Minimalist Menu
Choose one nature element to capture:
YAMA (Mountain)
TSUKI (Moon)
KI (Tree)
KAWA (River)
3 The One-Color Challenge
Capture the Essence
Goal: Use 5 strokes or less.
Peer Inspect
"Trade papers. Where is the Ma in your partner's art? How does the empty space make you feel?"
Zen Canvas Presentation ZEN CANVAS
The Power of "MA"
TUNE-IN
Where are the Rocks?
Ryoan-ji Garden, Kyoto
The Empty Space
In this garden, there are 15 rocks. But you can never see them all at once. The Sand represents the silence between words.
"Why is the empty space just as important as the rocks?"
ACQUIRE
What is "MA"? (間)
MA
1. The Space between things.
2. The Silence between sounds.
3. The Breath between actions.
In Art
The blank paper that lets the subject breathe.
In Music
The heavy pause before a drum strike.
In Life
A quiet moment of reflection before starting.
BRIDGE
The 3-Stroke Challenge
"Can you paint a world with THREE lines?"
1. THINK
Focus Point
2. DRAW
Max 3 Marks
3. MA
LEAVE SPACE
Matsuri Masters Teacher Guide Matsuri Masters
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 10: Holidays
Learning Targets
Identify key rituals of Oshougatsu and Setsubun .
Compare Japanese traditions with personal cultural celebrations.
Master the phrase: Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
Oni wa Soto! : Demonstration of bean throwing. Ask: "Why would driving out bad luck be the focus of a holiday?"
ACQUIRE (15m)
Rituals of Fresh Starts : Direct instruction on Oshougatsu (New Year) and Setsubun (Spring Eve). Focus on cleaning, shrines, and money rituals.
BRIDGE (15m)
Holiday Mirror : Students use the organizer to compare a Japanese ritual to a family tradition.
INSPECT (10m)
Matsuri Sorting : Identify which ritual goes with which holiday. Quick check of Setsubun chant pronunciation.
Holiday Vocab
OSHOUGATSU (お正月)
New Year Rituals
SETSUBUN (節分)
Spring Eve Rituals
ONI (鬼)
Demon / Bad Luck
Setsubun Chant
"Oni wa soto!"
"Fuku wa uchi!"
"Demons out! Good luck in!"
Bridge Tip
Compare family meals (e.g. New Year's dinner) with Osechi-ryouri boxes.
Matsuri Masters Bridge Organizer Holiday Mirror
Bridge Holiday Comparison
Name:
"How do we celebrate fresh starts? Compare a Japanese holiday (New Year or Setsubun) with a holiday from your own culture!"
Japanese Ritual
Rituals / Food / Why?
My Tradition
Rituals / Food / Why?
BOTH
SHARED
The Reflection
What is one thing you learned about Japanese holidays that you wish was a tradition in your own home?
Matsuri Masters Presentation MATSURI MASTERS
Festivals & Rituals
TUNE-IN
Oni wa Soto!
Throwing the Beans!
Every February 3rd, Japanese families throw roasted soybeans to drive out the "Oni" (demons/bad luck).
"Demons out! Luck in!"
Japanese holidays aren't just about fun—they are about cleansing and fresh starts.
"How do YOU bring good luck into your home?"
ACQUIRE
Oshougatsu (New Year)
Hatsumode
The first shrine visit of the year to pray for health and luck.
Otoshidama
Children receive envelopes of money from their parents and elders!
The Feast
Osechi-ryouri
Beautiful boxes of food where every ingredient has a meaning (e.g., shrimp for long life).
ACQUIRE
Setsubun Rituals
節分
Setsubun
Spring Eve Celebration
Mame-maki
Bean-throwing! Shout: "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!"
Eho-maki
Eat a whole sushi roll in silence while facing the lucky direction of the year!
BRIDGE
Holiday Comparison
Use your Holiday Venn Diagram.
1
Pick one Japanese holiday (New Year or Setsubun).
2
Pick one holiday you celebrate at home.
3
What rituals are similar? What is totally different?
Ruchin Radar Teacher Guide Ruchin Radar
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 11: Daily Life
Learning Targets
Identify Japanese school features: Uniforms, Bento, Cleaning (O-souji ).
Use routine verbs: Okiru (Wake up), Taberu (Eat), Neru (Sleep).
Analyze the community impact of school cleaning culture.
The TABI Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
The Cleaning Crew : Video of Japanese middle schoolers cleaning. Discussion: "How would school change if we were responsible for the building?"
ACQUIRE (15m)
Timeline Comparison : Explore the long Japanese school day. Morning Bukatsu to late evening Juku .
BRIDGE (15m)
Routine Chart : Students plot their own 24-hour routine vs. a Japanese student using target verbs.
INSPECT (10m)
Debate : Community vs. Convenience. Which school style build more independence?
Routine Vocab
OKIRU
To wake up
TABERU
To eat
BENKYOU-SURU
To study
Culture Shock!
Most Japanese students stay in one classroom while the **teachers** rotate. This builds a strong "Kumi" (class family) identity that lasts all year.
Bridge Tip
Focus on the intensity of **Bukatsu** (Clubs). These are high-commitment and form the core of social life.
Ruchin Radar Bridge Organizer Daily Routine
Bridge Comparative Chart
Name:
My Day (USA)
7:00 AM
9:00 AM
12:00 PM
3:30 PM
6:00 PM
10:00 PM
Typical Day (Japan)
6:30 AM
OKIRU (Wake Up)
8:15 AM
GAKKOU (School)
12:30 PM
BENTO WO TABERU
4:00 PM
BUKATSU (Clubs)
7:00 PM
JUKU (Cram School)
11:30 PM
NERU (Sleep)
Routine Reflection
Compare the timelines. What is the most surprising difference? Why do you think it exists?
Ruchin Radar Presentation RUCHIN RADAR
Daily Life & School
TUNE-IN
The Cleaning Crew
Video: O-souji Time!
O-souji (お掃除)
Japanese students don't have janitors. Every day, they spend 15 minutes cleaning their entire school themselves.
"How would your school look if WE cleaned it?"
ACQUIRE
A Day in the Life
Okiru
7:00 AM
Breakfast & commute by train or bike.
Benkyou
8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Classes, Bento Lunch, & O-souji.
Bukatsu
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Intense Club Activities (Sports/Arts).
BRIDGE
Routine Radar
Use your Daily Life Chart.
?
What is one thing Japanese students do that YOU wish you did?
!
What would a Japanese student find "weird" about your day?
Mirai Project Teacher Guide Mirai Project
Teacher Planning Playbook
Unit 1: Sekai no Hakken
Lesson 12: Showcase
Project Objectives
Synthesize learning from Unit 1 into a cultural showcase project.
Perform a peer review using polite Japanese feedback phrases.
Reflect on personal growth in Japanese language and cultural awareness.
Showcase Routine (45 Mins)
TUNE-IN (5m)
The Museum Opening : Set the stage. Students are curators of Japanese culture today. Play traditional music (Lesson 8).
ACQUIRE (5m)
Feedback Phrases : Review feedback etiquette. Sugoi! (Amazing), Ii desu ne! (Great!), Omoshiroi! (Interesting).
BRIDGE (25m)
Gallery Walk : Half the class presents posters/projects while the other half rotates. Use the Bridge Organizer to record feedback.
INSPECT (10m)
Final Reflection : Debrief. What was the most interesting thing you learned from a peer today?
Rubric Quick-Check
ACCURACY
Japanese terms used correctly.
CREATIVITY
Visuals are clear and engaging.
Gallery Walk Phrases
- "Kore wa nani desu ka?" (What is this?)
- "Sugoi desu ne!" (It's amazing!)
- "Arigatou gozaimasu!" (Thank you!)
Teacher Note
Celebrate every student's effort. The goal is to build confidence for Unit 2.
Mirai Project Bridge Organizer Review Star Sheet
Bridge Project Feedback
Name:
"Visit 3 projects. Record the topic and one thing you found 'Omoshiroi' (Interesting)!"
1
Topic:
Omoshiroi!
2
Topic:
Omoshiroi!
3
Topic:
Omoshiroi!
Final Self-Reflection
What is the one thing you are most proud to have learned in Unit 1?
Mirai Project Presentation MIRAI PROJECT
Cultural Showcase
LEARN
Showcase Etiquette
The Presenter
Stand tall. Use your Japanese keywords. Smile and greet your visitors with a bow.
The Visitor
Listen respectfully. Ask questions in Japanese. Leave a positive comment on the Review Sheet.
"Sugoi desu ne!"
(It is amazing!)
BRIDGE
The Gallery Walk
3
Minutes
Timer per station
5
Japanese
Feedback phrases
1
Star
Rating per project
Let's begin the Showcase!