Elementary School Japanese SIG aims to build a professional community for educators teaching Japanese at the elementary school level, providing a platform to share best practices, resources, and strategies for fostering early language acquisition. The SIG aims to support teachers in enhancing student engagement, promoting intercultural competence, and laying a strong foundation for lifelong Japanese language learning.

Goals:

The SIG’s overarching goals include, but will not be limited to:

  • Supporting elementary-level Japanese language teachers through networking, mentoring, and collaboration.

  • Providing opportunities for young learners to engage meaningfully with the Japanese language and culture.

  • Sharing curriculum ideas, lesson plans, and teaching strategies tailored to young learners to foster both cognitive and non-cognitive development.

  • Building a network to promote, sustain, and advance elementary school programs by sharing job listings and recruitment information.

  • Advocating for the importance and expansion of Japanese language programs in elementary schools.

Activities and Highlights:

  • Hosting virtual and in-person meetings for idea sharing and networking.

  • Creating resource libraries including lesson plans, activities, and assessments.

  • Facilitating mentorship and support for new and experienced teachers alike.

Contact Information:

For more information about the SIG, please fill out this Google Form: https://forms.gle/6yM6ksYadx3XHyAM7