Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary that students will see in their readings or presentations aids in overall comprehension and retention. For this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates terms that are commonly used in Japan, and are used frequently in The Last Cherry Blossom.
Students will preview the terms and definitions and use whole class or small group discussion to demonstrate their understanding of each meaning. This can be done at the beginning of each chapter so that students can preview what they will read or teachers could decide to do at the end of a chapter as an assessment. When students define and illustrate each term, they master the application of it and retain it as part of their lexicon.
Chohei Pati: A celebration for soldiers who are about to go to war.
Geta: A type of sandal worn with a kimono.
Joya: ”Young lady”. It is a term of endearment for a young girl.
Kimono: A formal Japanese robe.
Koi: Ornamental Japanese fish kept in small ponds in Japanese gardens.
Koseki: An official family register (family tree).
Kushu Da: An air raid, which is the dropping of bombs from a plane to the ground.
Obi:A belt used to tie a kimono.
Oshagatsu: The New Year’s celebration.
Sakura: Cherry blossoms
Sensei: A teacher.
Shoji: A room divider made from paper over a wood frame used in traditional Japanese homes.
Soba: Thin noodles used in soup. They can also be served without broth and prepared hot, cold, or fried.
Zabuton: Floor cushions used as seats around a traditional Japanese dinner table.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that illustrates and defines Japanese terms The Last Cherry Blossom.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions, and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.