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gonzarelli

I'm teaching at a low level JHS. For the 3rd year students, I'm to teach them 'International Understanding.' I've never taught this before and I'm looking for a few ideas from anyone who's taught this before.

The goals as described by the JTE is to fill a 50 minute class with 'anything.' Basically, to waste time. Rolling Eyes

Any ideas and suggestions or links to websites would be really appreciated. Thanks.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Tell them you need further clarification. I know I would, and I certainly need it here to give you any advice.

Sounds like you are a JET or other form of ALT...

Are we talking about a one-times lesson or something continuing?

When do you need this?

JonnyB61 · Joined: 30 Oct 2006 Posts: 216 Location: Japan

A couple of years ago I did a presentation on comparative international eating etiquette. There is an abundance of information available on that subject on the internet. I researched it through Google and put together a Powerpoint Presentation / multiple choice quiz affair.
They loved it, especially the bits about burping and spitting!

Also, there are several websites giving advice to international business types on do's and don'ts in various cultures. Obviously, I'm not suggesting that you attempt to teach your students international business, but you should be able to pick up some fascinating little curiosities for your classes. Google refers on that too. (I'm happy to share ideas but I'm not going to do your work for you.)

I think you could have a lot of fun with this one if you play your cards right. Good luck with it, and let us know how you get on.

gonzarelli · Posted: Fri Jun 22, 2007 1:14 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the replies.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Get the book Dos and Taboos Around the World and take snippets from there.

Think of topics like gestures, food, holidays, greeting people, etc. Lots to go on there, and plenty of lesson plans on the Internet.

Plan the lesson with that JTE as much as possible. Get her involved for both of your sakes. You are team-teaching, after all.

Get the kids involved; don't make it a stuffy, formal culture lesson. Get them to practice whatever English they have to give you examples of certain things from Japan, and then show them stuff from other countries. Many ways to do this topic, but you (and the JTE) need to focus it. The key point is to make it a language practice session with a cultural theme.

gonzarelli · Posted: Tue Jun 26, 2007 12:11 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the help Glenski. I'll get a hold of the book and see what I can make of it. Cheers!