Japanese Language Programme

The Japanese Language Programme is comprised of two main streams. One is for ‘First Language Speakers’ and the other is for children who are learners of Japanese. This group has a strong emphasis placed on communication skills within the framework of TJFL (Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language).The programme is now extended to Nursery and Reception classes, where the appreciation of the language and some basic cultural awareness will commence.

Students from Year 1 to Year 6 are levelled according to their speaking ability. Students who speak Japanese are placed in one group, where an authentic learning environment is offered. Students who do not speak the language are placed in two other groups. The programme is differentiated catering for all levels, using two or more teachers.

Key concepts covered in TJFL include:
 Greetings
 Instructions
 Action words
 Shapes 
 Numbers,
 Colours
 Family
 Food　
 Parts of the body
 Months
 Days
 Seasons
 Places　
 Time
 Songs
 Weather
 Classroom objects

Cultural activities are valued, including Japanese traditional events, such as Doll’s Festival and Bean-throwing, and each month has its own theme.