Using Natural Disasters as a Theme in School-based Japanese Language Classes:

An Approach that Considers the Individual Child's Japanese Language Proficiency, Linguistic and Cultural Background, and Developmental Stage

Abstract

Japan is a country that is prone to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods. The present study discusses methodologies for teaching about disasters in school-based (K-12) Japanese language classrooms that include students of varying levels of Japanese proficiency, from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds, and from different developmental stages. The authors include their insights on the students' ability to increase their understanding of natural disasters and their impact on Japan, and their learning of related Japanese expressions.