Making Japanese Language Learning Fun
This term, we have been fortunate to have two Japanese university students join our Japanese classes for a four-week period. Haruna Yamazaki sensei from Tokyo and Kurumi Harada sensei from Hyogo prefecture have been fantastic in sharing their culture and language. They have engaged with the students in both English and Japanese, introducing origami, playing games, and helping senior students refine their language skills, both conversational and written. Year 10 students Heather, Violet and Clarice interviewed the students to learn about their experience. We are grateful for their enthusiasm and hope they leave with wonderful memories.
– Natasha Collins
Assistant Head of Languages
Having Kurumi sensei and Haruna sensei all the way from Japan join our class was an incredible opportunity. Their presence brought an authentic cultural connection that truly enriched our Japanese studies and learning. They were always eager to help, whether it was assisting with pronunciation, explaining grammar concepts, or sharing insights into Japanese culture that we wouldn’t find in textbooks.
Beyond their helpfulness, they brought an enthusiasm that made learning more enjoyable. Their willingness to engage with us, answer our questions, and encourage our speaking skills created a comfortable and interactive classroom environment. It was inspiring to see their dedication and kindness, which motivated us to improve our language skills even further.
Their visit not only supported our learning but also enlightened our classroom with a firsthand cultural experience. I am truly grateful for their time with us and hope they enjoyed their stay in Sydney as much as we appreciated having them.
Interview with Kurumi Harada and Haruna Yamazaki
- What was the purpose of coming to a school in Australia?
“Haruna sensei is a 3rd year university student studying International Relations at Dokkyo University. She has come to Sydney for one year to work and study. She is working part time in a Japanese restaurant which she enjoys. She hopes to improve her English whilst interacting with the students and thinks the students are lovely.
Kurumi sensei is a 2nd year student studying International Relations at Kwansei Gakuin in Hyogo prefecture, which is three hours from Tokyo by shinkansen, she is here for one month during the Spring university holidays. Kurumi sensei is very interested in learning how students learn Japanese and is very impressed by the student’s enthusiasm.”
- What was the most enjoyable part at MLC School so far?
“Kurumi sensei is enjoying the conversations that she had with the friendly students from all years while Haruna loves the staff community here at MLC School and the facilities.”
- What was your first reaction to the MLC School campus?
Haruna sensei and Kurumi sensei were extremely fascinated with the MLC School campus and describe it as beautiful and modern. Haruna sensei expressed the Senior Centre to be more office-like compared to a school in Japan, and is most impressed by the building and its professional appearance.
- Where is your favourite part of the campus?
“They both expressed their love for the level 3 balcony as it gave them a breath of fresh air and it think it is a very relaxing, beautiful space. Kurumi sensei specifically likes the classrooms and how modern they are.”
- How is our (MLC School) cafe food and how does it compare to the Japanese cafeteria food?
“Overall, they are so amazed at the simplicity and deliciousness of the canteen food. Kurumi sensei likes the friendly staff and Haruna sensei especially enjoys the pasta in the daily special.”
- What was the biggest difference between the high schools in Australia compared to Japan?
“In Japan they stated that they are more reserved however the students here at MLC School are energetic and participate well in class. The students at MLC School are curious and put their hands up for many things which contrasts to the quiet nature of Japanese high school students.”
- Was there anything challenging about being a teacher/assistant or challenges being in Australia?
“Overall, due to the guidance from staff there wasn’t anything particularly challenging except for their language barrier as English is not their first language.”
– Heather Yeon, Stephanie Yeung, Violet Le
(Year 10 students)
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