Class theme/topics discussed:
1. Make a good-bye present :message card (write a message on a square piece of high-quality paperboard：色紙に寄せ書きをする)
I bought Japanese style message paperboards for each students and I. After I explained about the paperboard (for intermediate students), Students wrote down a nice message to all classmates and I.
2. Watch Advanced and Intermediate conversation class projects
Movie trailer of Sailor Moon (Advanced)
Short movie of My Friend Is Foreigner (Intermediate)
※Refreshment (Japanese snacks and tea) was served.
How did you pick this theme or topic?
Today was the final conversation class this year. I wanted to do something special and memorable with my students. So I decided to do make a message card, which is one of common good-bye presents when Japanese people make a farewell.
How did you present the material? (handouts, group work, general discussion, student presentations, etc.)
I explained when and how Japanese people use the message card, and then students decided a layout of the card and started to write down messages.
How did students react?
They need to take a little bit long time to complete a message card though, they seemed to be glad to get a messages from all classmates and me.
Did they engage with each other and you?
Yes! They focused on writing a message seriously. I think this time was my first time to see very quiet advanced conversation class.
What materials or media did you use? (articles, satellite tv, digital projector, etc.)
N/A
Please attach a copy.
N/A
Would you recommend this activity for a future class?
Yes, of course!!
Why or why not?
This lesson plan was fun and good for students to practice both writing and reading. Also, they could learn Japanese farewell custom through making a card. I asked my family in Japan to send cards to the U.S though, LRs can get a paperboard in Marukai, Japanese super market, in L.A.