Kinder

AM class/PM class

In our Kinder classes, we do not focus on traditional "teaching" of Japanese. At VJLS, we expose the children to fun games, activities, and a variety of Japanese cultural experiences and develop their desire to read and write Hiragana. We also value each child's individuality, nurture their creativity, and guide them to act on their own initiative. Children can play freely and experience physical activities in our large hall.

Instruction is provided in Japanese, however, all students are welcome regardless of Japanese language ability. Classes are divided into two, with a choice of morning or afternoon classes.

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Elementary Grade 1

This class is for students Age 6.

Students will practice Japanese and express themselves through interaction with friends and teachers in Japanese in a school context, which will increase students’ opportunities to use the language. They use the Japanese Kokugo and will learn Hiragana, Katakana, and 80 Kanji.

Elementary Grade 3

This class is for students Age 8.

Students will learn to recognize the difference between spoken and written language and express the events around themselves and their feelings in Japanese. They use the Japanese Kokugo textbook and will learn 160 Kanji.

Elementary Grade 5

This class is for students Age 10.

Students will become accustomed to using written language and learn to express their personal events and their feelings and thoughts in Japanese. They use the Japanese Kokugo textbook and will learn 200 Kanji.

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Junior High Gr. 1

This class is for students Age 12.

Students will learn to express your thoughts and opinions in Japanese according to the theme and purpose related to their interests. They use the Japanese Kokugo textbook and will learn 202 Kanji.

Junior High Gr. 3

This class is for students Age 14.

Students will learn to express your own opinions and thoughts while deepening their understanding of Japan through reading materials on the theme of Japanese culture and history. Japanese Language Proficiency Test N3 level or higher Japanese is included in the learning content.

Senior High Gr. 1

This class is for students Age 15.

Students will learn to express your own opinions and thoughts while deepening their understanding of Japan through reading materials on the theme of Japanese culture and history. Japanese Language Proficiency Test N3 level or higher Japanese is included in the learning content.

Senior High Gr. 3

This class is for students Age 17.

Students will learn to express their own opinions and thoughts while deepening their understanding of Japan through reading materials on the theme of Japanese culture and history. Japanese Language Proficiency Test N2 level or higher Japanese is included in the learning content.

Calligraphy

A “letter” is not just a sign or character. It is a tool that can describe feelings and scenery, and that represents culture in its own form. Japanese has a lot of beautiful words, and uses three separate alphabets: Hiragana, Katakana and Kanji to express culture through letters - an art in themselves. Calligraphy is to imbue letters with the meanings the words have, and the feelings you want to express, using a writing brush and ink. I feel joyful when the letters I painted with the brush speak to someone in a way that goes beyond the words. Through calligraphy, let’s learn and feel Japanese letters, words, and culture.

Japanese Culture and History in Ghibli Films

Have you ever seen Ghibli movies? How do you feel after watching? Did you enjoy it? Do you feel inspired? Ghibli movies actually relate to Japanese culture and reflect the country's history. When watching them, it is important to understand “why this movie is interesting” or “ what it really means”. If you get it, you will be able to enjoy more and more for sure! Let’s figure out what the hidden message is hidden in each movie.