Southeast Gakuen

Southeast Japanese Language School (Southeast Gakuen) was first established in 1923 as Norwalk Gakuen to teach Japanese to children of Japanese immigrants. In 1962, the school was renamed Southeast Gakuen. Presently, the school teaches Japanese as a foreign language to all students regardless of race or religion.

The mission statement of our school is: “We, at Southeast Japanese School, are committed to providing instructions in the Japanese language and culture. Our goal is to enable students to successfully function in a Japanese-speaking environment and to foster an appreciation of the Japanese culture.”

The school provides students the opportunity to experience Japanese culture as they learn the language. Our program provides a rich variety of cultural activities including monthly cultural events to enhance cultural experience and understanding. It is hoped that the experience at the Southeast Gakuen will provide students with a better understanding of the Japanese people.

We believe that foreign language is best taught at a young age when children are most responsive to new languages. The school includes a kindergarten program for children who are 5 years old. Our regular program is recommended for children 6 years and older. Our program includes all modalities of the language including listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture.

We also offer classes for adults who wish to learn the language. The adult classes emphasize listening and speaking abilities. Reading and writing is also incorporated into the lessons.

The school year begins in early September and ends at the end of July. Our school year runs on a 40 week cycle.

Class Description

KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM

Children who are 5 years old learn the Japanese culture through organized activities involving crafts, songs, and the Japanese language.

BEGINNING LEVEL JAPANESE
(no prior language knowledge required)

Children will be introduced to the language with emphasis on listening and speaking, with some reading and writing. Culture lessons and crafts will be integrated into the lessons.

ELEMENTARY LEVEL

Students will continue to develop basic conversational skills as well as reading and writing of short sentences. Students will be able to hold short conversations on topics relating to daily life. Culturally appropriate behaviors as well as annual cultural festivities will be integrated into the lessons.

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL JAPANESE

Students will further develop their abilities to function in a Japanese speaking environment through listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will be able to to request information, converse in a participatory manner, and exchange factual information with some detail. Students will be able to read and understand the main idea as well as some detail on familiar topics. Classes will be conducted in Japanese majority of the time, including student participation in discussions and activities in Japanese.

ADVANCED LEVEL JAPANESE

Students will continue refining their ability to listen, speak, read and write in Japanese. Students will be able to converse and discuss topics of current interest and express personal opinions. They will be able to narrate, describe, and explain. Students will be able to initiate, sustain, and close a general conversation with a number of communicative strategies. The students will be expected to participate in class discussions and activities using the language. Students will use Japanese in culturally authentic, practical situations, incorporating idiomatic expressions. They will learn the appropriate language to use in a variety of social interactions.

ADULT CLASSES

Beginning Level students will learn basic Japanese which will enable the student to function as a tourist in Japan. The classes are held two hours every Saturday. Reading and writing of the script will be incorporated into the lessons, with emphasis on the spoken language. The classes will be on a continuing basis up to the advanced level in which idiomatic phrases and appropriate language for variety of social interactions will be taught.

AFTER SCHOOL SHUJI CLASS

Students may participate in after school Shuji class (brush calligraphy). Students learn this art form using the traditional brush and ink. No prior experience is necessary. Shuji helps students to learn proper lettering techniques. It also instills good mental attitude and enthusiasm toward studies, as well as training for perseverance. Shuji class begins after lunch from 12:30 - 1: 30 PM. Students must purchase their own equipment (approximately $30.00).

Annual Cultural Events

September Back to School (classroom observation)

October Undokai (athletic event)

December Mochi making and toshikoshi soba tasting

January Ozooni tasting, New Year activities

February Setsubun celebration

March Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival), kimono demonstration

April Hanami cultural presentation and sakuramochi tasting

Ohanashikai (speech program)

May Kodomonohi (Children's Day) celebration

July Tanabata (Star Festival) celebration

Cultural Festival and Ondo (Street Dancing)

School Year Calendar

September 6, 2008 to July 25, 2009