FEATURED PROGRAMS

At Aoba-Japan International School, we recognize the importance of Japanese language learning for our diverse student body. Our MYP Japanese programme is designed to support students at all proficiency levels, whether they are native speakers or learning Japanese as an additional language. The programme aligns with the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) framework while incorporating elements of the Japanese national curriculum, ensuring that students develop strong language skills while also gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and society.

Our curriculum is built on the IB's concept-based and inquiry-driven approach, which encourages students to think critically, make connections between different subjects, and apply their learning to real-life situations. In addition to language skills, students explire broader concepts including communication, connections, creativity, and culture. Japanese language learning is often integrated with other subjects, such as Individuals & Societies, to create meaningful interdisciplinary experiences. For example, students might analyze historical events through Japanese literature or develop creative digital storytelling projects in Japanese.

Assesment in the Japanese programme follows the IB MYP criteria, which evaluate students on their ability to understand and analyze spoken and written texts, communicate effectively in Japanese, and apply language skillls in both spoken and written formats. Our teachers provide regular feedback and opportunities for self-reflection, helping students take ownership of their learning and progress at their own pace.

By offering a rigorous yet flexible Japanese language programme, Aoba-Japan ensures that students develop strong literacy and progress at their own page.

By offering a rigorous yet flexible Japanese language programme, Aoba-Japan ensures that students develop strong literacy skills and cultural understanding, whether they plan to pursue further education in Japan or an international setting. Through our MYP Japanese programme, students not only learn a language but also gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture and its role in an increasingly interconnected world. We are committed to supporting each child's language development journey, providing a personalized learning experience that meets their unique needs and aspirations.

This is an original experience-based program that was jointly considered with the school based on the opinions of FC members. Through this program, Japanese craftspeople will be invited to Hikarigaoka campus to provide an introduction to their crafts (e.g. Japanese umbrella, Hakone work / parquet work, Masuko ware, lanterns, indigo dyeing, Edo lacquerware, etc.) as well as insights into the life of the craftsmen and their place in Japanese culture. The program will focus on one craft per year. This program will be incorporated into the curriculum of the PYP's visual arts class and MYP's design and Japanese classes and not a one-off event.

Over the past year in the AIR, our students learned about Japanese umbrellas (Wagasa), the Edo Sudare (Bamboo blind), and Japanese pottery(Togei). Over the course of the year students worked with a Japanese artisan (shokunin), to learn not only the craft, but also general concepts around Japanese design, and the life of an artisan.