Japanese Language and Japanese Culture Program
To Improve your Japanese Proficiency
Japanese Class: Basic Japanese Classes (Compulsory)
Class levels
Intermediate-Low or above (2 classes), Intermediate-Mid or above (2 classes), Advanced-low, and Advanced-Mid or above. Levels are determined in accordance with the proficiency guidelines of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). Participants' levels are assessed through placement tests in reading, writing, listening and speaking skills, as well as prior Japanese language study. The placement tests are held at the beginning of the program in Hakodate.
Class instruction
The intermediate classes will emphasize speaking and listening skills, while the upper levels receive emphasis on all skills. Each morning, announcements and short speech, etc., are duties to be shared with classmates in turns. Participants will also learn how to write and deliver effective public speeches.
Class size
10 students
*Class composition and class sizes are subject to revision
| Class Level | Textbooks and Main Materials | Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| Intermediate-Low or above | Nakama 2: Japanese communication, Culture, Context | Houghton Mifflin Company |
| (2 classes) | An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese | The Japan Times |
| Intermediate-Mid or above | An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese | The Japan Times |
| (2 classes) | ||
| Advanced-Low | Authentic Japanese: Progressing from Intermediate to Advanced | The Japan Times |
| (1class) | TV programs, movies, newspapers, short novels, etc. | |
| Advanced-Mid or above | Authentic Japanese: Progressing from Intermediate to Advanced | The Japan Times |
| (1class) | TV programs, movies, newspapers, short novels, etc. |
| * | In addition to these texts, videos and other instructional materials are used regularly in all classes. |
| * | The listed textbooks are subject to change. |
Japanese Class: Independent Study
This independent study is designed to enhance your Japanese proficiency by accomplishing your individual study objectives in addition to the HIF basic Japanese classes. The study objectives, method, timelines, and the tangible result should be discussed and defined by consulting with your instructor. You may choose a theme related to your interests provided that you can finalize and submit the outcome before the Summer Program is completed. You are required to report the progress of your independent study to your instructor at least once a week so that you can refine your work. The instructor will evaluate the work including the final product. Participants are expected to prepare outlines for their independent study in advance.
Special Lectures
Participants will attend three special lectures introducing diverse aspects of Japanese culture. Former special lectures topics included Japanese religion, Japanese linguistics, and Homestay, etc.
Special Events
Several events are scheduled for you to establish rapport with other participants. Other events, such as the speech contest, are related to your Japanese language classes.
Japanese Culture Classes
Language acquisition and cultural understanding go hand in hand. This program has offered classes in calligraphy, flower arrangement, tea ceremony, traditional confectionery making, igo, pottery making, Japanese cooking, as well as kimono culture and etiquette. These classes are taught by teachers who are qualified in those fields. Participants may be required to pay for the materials used in some classes.
Homestay
The eight-week homestay provides you with full immersion in Japanese language and Japanese culture. Host families volunteer to participate in the program not merely to accommodate you but also to help you to practice your Japanese skills and deepen your understanding of Japanese culture. The homework and class topics are also expected to reflect your homestay experience.
Exchanges with Local People
Many of the optional activities allow participants to meet local Japanese people and experience Japanese society outside of classroom and homestay settings. Some of these opportunities include an elementary school visit, club activities at high schools, and exchanges with local university students, together with local festivals, radio shows, etc.
Japanese Only Rule(日本語だけルール)
To maximize learning in the program, all participants must observe the Nihongo-Dake (Japanese Only) Rule from the moment they enter designated areas of the school building. Participants are encouraged to avoid using languages other than Japanese at school.