Furoshiki: An Enriching and Engaging Experience for Students
Written by Eric Lindblom, Opihi College
Hands-on Furoshiki sessions at different schools. (photo taken at Wellington East Girls’ College)
I recently had the privilege of hosting our Japanese advisor, Kaori Fukazawa, who introduced my high school Japanese classes to the fascinating world of furoshiki. From the moment Fukazawa sensei entered the classroom, her warm smile and genuine enthusiasm for furoshiki set the tone for an exciting session. She brought along an assortment of beautifully patterned furoshiki cloths and as she unfolded the vibrant fabrics, a sense of curiosity and anticipation filled the room.
The highlight of the session was undoubtedly the hands-on activity that followed. Fukazawa sensei encouraged each student to select an item, whether it was a book, a box, or an irregularly shaped object, and try their hand at wrapping it using the furoshiki. The room buzzed with excitement as students eagerly embraced the challenge. With Fukazawa sensei's patient guidance, they quickly grasped the art of furoshiki, transforming simple cloths into beautifully wrapped packages.
Beyond the technical aspects, the furoshiki experience provided my students with valuable life skills. They learned about sustainability and the eco-friendly nature of furoshiki as a reusable alternative to single-use wrapping materials.
I wholeheartedly recommend Fukazawa sensei's furoshiki workshop. Her enthusiasm, combined with the rich cultural significance of furoshiki, creates an unforgettable experience for students. The hands-on nature of the activity not only engages students actively but also nurtures their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and appreciation for sustainable practices. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Fukazawa sensei.
2023 NEW ZEALAND SCHOOLS JAPANESE TRIVIA CHAMPIONSHIPS
Written by Kaori Fukazawa, National Japanese Language Adviser
The same slides were used in all regions. (photo taken at Kings High School in Dunedin)
Much like Japan's Tanabata star festival, the Japanese Trivia Championships take place annually across Aotearoa, New Zealand. In 2023, on the night of June 16th, 118 teams of junior students from 49 different schools had gathered, competed, and shared joy and laughter in nine different regions simultaneously. The quiz covers five topics: Sports/Festivals, Food, Geography, Pop Culture, and Daily Life. Participants are challenged to answer questions based on Japanese culture and general knowledge. This year, I had the privilege of being present at the Otago venue. It was truly enjoyable to witness students from different schools attempting to guess the answers as a team and enthusiastically shouting with joy.
This event has been meticulously organized by dedicated volunteer Japanese teachers for the students, encompassing the creation of questions. Huge thanks to Yukiko Kojima and the Trivia team of NZAJLT for organizing this.
The list of regional winning teams is below, and Lynfield College in Auckland was crowned the national champion.
Regional winners: Auckland: Lynfield College (1) Waikato: Hamilton Girls' High School (1) Hawkes Bay: Havelock North High School (2) Manawatū: Awatapu College (UN) Wellington: Queen Margaret College (2) Tasman: Nelson College for Girls (1) Canterbury: Hillmorton High School(1) Otago: Otago Girls High School (1) Southland: James Hargest College (1)
こうしたイベントに関心があっても、平日の授業中に生徒を引率するのは難しいという学校もあると思います。Japan Foundation, Sydneyでは、毎年short film contestを開催しており、今年も作品を募集中です。ニュージーランドの生徒も応募することができます。今年の応募は9月22日締切ですので間に合わないかもしれませんが、来年の応募に向けて計画的に取り組んでみてはどうでしょうか。
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2023 - Japanese - Term 3 Newsletter Articles
Furoshiki: An Enriching and Engaging Experience for Students
Written by Eric Lindblom, Opihi College
Hands-on Furoshiki sessions at different schools. (photo taken at Wellington East Girls’ College)
I recently had the privilege of hosting our Japanese advisor, Kaori Fukazawa, who introduced my high school Japanese classes to the fascinating world of furoshiki. From the moment Fukazawa sensei entered the classroom, her warm smile and genuine enthusiasm for furoshiki set the tone for an exciting session. She brought along an assortment of beautifully patterned furoshiki cloths and as she unfolded the vibrant fabrics, a sense of curiosity and anticipation filled the room.
The highlight of the session was undoubtedly the hands-on activity that followed. Fukazawa sensei encouraged each student to select an item, whether it was a book, a box, or an irregularly shaped object, and try their hand at wrapping it using the furoshiki. The room buzzed with excitement as students eagerly embraced the challenge. With Fukazawa sensei's patient guidance, they quickly grasped the art of furoshiki, transforming simple cloths into beautifully wrapped packages.
Beyond the technical aspects, the furoshiki experience provided my students with valuable life skills. They learned about sustainability and the eco-friendly nature of furoshiki as a reusable alternative to single-use wrapping materials.
I wholeheartedly recommend Fukazawa sensei's furoshiki workshop. Her enthusiasm, combined with the rich cultural significance of furoshiki, creates an unforgettable experience for students. The hands-on nature of the activity not only engages students actively but also nurtures their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and appreciation for sustainable practices. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Fukazawa sensei.
2023 NEW ZEALAND SCHOOLS JAPANESE TRIVIA CHAMPIONSHIPS
Written by Kaori Fukazawa, National Japanese Language Adviser
The same slides were used in all regions. (photo taken at Kings High School in Dunedin)
Much like Japan's Tanabata star festival, the Japanese Trivia Championships take place annually across Aotearoa, New Zealand. In 2023, on the night of June 16th, 118 teams of junior students from 49 different schools had gathered, competed, and shared joy and laughter in nine different regions simultaneously. The quiz covers five topics: Sports/Festivals, Food, Geography, Pop Culture, and Daily Life. Participants are challenged to answer questions based on Japanese culture and general knowledge. This year, I had the privilege of being present at the Otago venue. It was truly enjoyable to witness students from different schools attempting to guess the answers as a team and enthusiastically shouting with joy.
This event has been meticulously organized by dedicated volunteer Japanese teachers for the students, encompassing the creation of questions. Huge thanks to Yukiko Kojima and the Trivia team of NZAJLT for organizing this.
The list of regional winning teams is below, and Lynfield College in Auckland was crowned the national champion.
Regional winners: Auckland: Lynfield College (1) Waikato: Hamilton Girls' High School (1) Hawkes Bay: Havelock North High School (2) Manawatū: Awatapu College (UN) Wellington: Queen Margaret College (2) Tasman: Nelson College for Girls (1) Canterbury: Hillmorton High School(1) Otago: Otago Girls High School (1) Southland: James Hargest College (1)
